How to get Organised for Christmas

This time of year, newspapers and online portals are overflowing with well-intentioned seasonal advice about getting ready for Christmas. The trouble is, the vast majority of it really isn’t very helpful. Flavoured butters, frozen-ahead canapes and pre-mixed cocktails are all very well, but not if you never planned to do any of that in theContinue reading “How to get Organised for Christmas”

An Afternoon of Festive Nibbles

All my favourites, rolled into one relaxing and Christmassy afternoon. Dispense with the dinner party this time of year and go in for something much simpler, but by no means less enjoyable. An Afternoon of Festive Nibbles Sugar & Spiced NutsCauliflower and Truffle SoupSliced BaguetteHard cheese (Gruyère, Aged cheddar or Comté)ProsciuttoSausage Rolls One thing allContinue reading “An Afternoon of Festive Nibbles”

Christmas Coleslaw

Don’t dismiss coleslaw as a summer barbeque staple; it is a veritable celebration of winter veg, and this one is so very Christmassy. Serve with Christmas ham, a spiced pulled pork, cold leftover turkey, or simply alongside a steaming baked potato for an easy side dish everyone will love. Inexpensive for a crowd, too. YouContinue reading “Christmas Coleslaw”

Fig, Goat’s Cheese and Prosciutto Bundles with a Rosemary, Honey & Brandy Glaze

Accurately described as a TASTE EXPLOSION. Make these and pretend you’re the guy from Love Actually who hopelessly uses “Taste Explosion?” as a pick-up line. If you’re unsuccessful, at least you’ll have more of these for yourself. Makes 18 pieces Ingredients 9 Dried figs Goat’s cheese 6 Slices prosciutto Rosemary Honey Brandy (port or sherryContinue reading “Fig, Goat’s Cheese and Prosciutto Bundles with a Rosemary, Honey & Brandy Glaze”

What I learned last Christmas

My husband and I hosted Christmas for the first time last year. In previous years I had always helped the hosts – obviously preparing food, and helping with lots of wrapping and decorating – but putting on the whole show unsupervised, as it were, was a different experience. And here’s what I learned. Do notContinue reading “What I learned last Christmas”

Rolled Turkey Breast Stuffed with Bacon, Cranberries and Pecans

Much less hassle (and expense) than the whole bird. If you’re a little apprehensive about cooking an entire turkey or just have fewer people coming ’round this year, this rolled and stuffed turkey breast is a great alternative. Slices like a dream, too. Substitute any dried fruit, nuts and booze – the method is theContinue reading “Rolled Turkey Breast Stuffed with Bacon, Cranberries and Pecans”

Festive Italian Feast

Christmas entertaining doesn’t need to be formal, particularly for get-togethers with friends around the festive period. This rustic and cosy Italian-inspired menu is low-stress, and a fabulous feast for 6. Rosemary grows wild everywhere in Italy, but it’s also a herb that feels very Christmassy.  Echo the rosemary theme in the food by adding aContinue reading “Festive Italian Feast”