Keep the little ones busy over summer with 50 fun activities, one for each day of the holidays. Discover anything from science experiments to baking projects and more.
Wondering what to do in the summer holidays? Spend those long summer weeks with the kids doing enriching crafts, educational science experiments and fun baking projects. We've got plenty of summer family activities for keeping the little ones busy and entertained while learning new things. Celebrate a special occasion with our birthday ideas for kids at home including a spa day, afternoon tea or a pizza party. Plus, keep them entertained with our kids' party games including a treasure hunt or an athletics competition. Older kids will love our summer party ideas for teenagers. Get the little ones in the kitchen with our kids' cooking recipes for wraps, pizzas and pasta. Or feed the whole house with our summer family recipes including simple traybakes, epic salads and hearty burgers. We also have our top summer cooking recipes for kids, featuring fish finger wraps and falafel burgers. This guide was brought to you by Cook Smart, a campaign designed by Good Food experts to help you save money and reduce food waste. Dive into more Cook Smart content in our budget hub. 50 ways to keep your kids entertained this summer 1. Plant fruits and vegetables Make the most of the warm weather and spend some time outside. Encourage kids to grow their own fruits and vegetables such as courgettes, beans, tomatoes, salad leaves and strawberries. To learn how to grow your own crops, see our fruit & veg for kids to grow guide. 2. Easy DIY bird feeder Little ones will love watching the garden birds as they perch on the side, pecking away at the seeds. This easy craft idea is a great way to teach children about local wildlife and enjoy a fun afternoon of crafts. 3. Set up a milkshake bar What could be more exciting than a milkshake bar for kids (and big kids)? It's perfect for a summer birthday party or celebration, and a special treat to enjoy during the sunnier months. Let kids choose their own toppings, from mini cookies and marshmallows to pretzels and popcorn. 4. Attend a food festival Bring the little ones along to our annual Good Food Show Summer! Held from 18-21 June at Birmingham's NEC, this festival is shaping up to the ultimate foodie day out. Expect jam-packed events with tips and tricks from top chefs and experts, hands-on workshops and tastings, unique dining experiences and a huge variety of producers and brands offering endless advice, tastings and shopping opportunities. It’s a fun way to keep the whole family entertained and might even inspire a future Junior MasterChef! 5. Play with salt dough Making a batch of salt dough is always a good idea when stuck inside on a rainy day. Children will love using their imaginations to create all sorts of exciting objects and hours of fun painting their creations. All you'll need for this simple salt dough recipe is flour, salt and water. 6. Make some ice cream sandwiches Treat the kids to a special sweet treat in the form of these ice cream sandwiches. Feel free to fill your cookies with various flavours and customisations – try homemade honeycomb, chopped nuts or your favourite chocolate bar. We also have our air fryer ice cream cookie sandwiches, quick banana ice cream sandwiches and strawberry shortbread ice cream sandwiches. 7. Chocolate bar cards Gift one of these easy to make chocolate parcel cards for a sweet, personalised present for a friend or family member's birthday. They only take 15 minutes to make. 8. Paper pinwheels Paper pinwheels are a simple and fun craft that you can make using drinking straws and paper. Download our free templates, then cut out the shapes from your favourite paper (or just colour in the template). Pop the finished pinwheels in a flowerpot and let the wind spin them round. 9. Make customised cookies Keep little ones entertained with an afternoon cookie baking session. Assemble a few bowls of different toppings, such as chocolate drops and sprinkles, for kids to customise. 10. Toast marshmallows on a BBQ for making s'mores For a sweet treat for little ones to enjoy during the balmy weather, you can't go wrong with marshmallows toasted on the barbie, or homemade s'mores. See our recipe for s’mores for a classic campfire snack - they require just three ingredients to make. Scroll through our collection of moreish sweet and savoury s'mores recipes for plenty of ideas. 11. Desk tidy/flowerpot Reuse a can to make this charming flower pot craft. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quick this project is and it’s a lot of fun, too. Leave your desk tidy natural as we’ve done or, if you have a little more time, paint it using acrylic or poster paints. Before you begin, make sure there are no sharp edges on the can you’re using. 12. Use an egg box for crafting Egg boxes are fabulous for crafting: they have an interesting shape, are easy to cut or tear and can be turned into all manner of fun things, from a colourful caterpillar to a treasure chest as explored in our top 10 egg carton crafts for kids. 13. Make slime Slime is always a fun activity that will keep kids entertained for hours. Our homemade edible slime recipe is easily made from everyday kitchen ingredients, including cornflour and coconut milk, and doesn't require borax. 14. Bake a sweet treat Keep the kids occupied over the holidays with an easy baking project. Our top 10 kids' summer baking projects is loaded with great kid-friendly recipes, from blondies and blueberry muffins to scones and more 15. Make a mud kitchen Mud kitchens are the perfect way for kids to engage in make-believe play in the garden. It's a great activity to set up that kids will return to day after day. Read our mud kitchen ideas guide for the basics including craft ideas and which toy kitchens and accessories to buy. 16. Make a fairy door Spend more time in the garden with this fun fairy door craft. These popular decorations can be added to trees, walls or fences in the garden, or stuck onto a child’s bedroom skirting board to allow the fairies to come and go as they please. See how to make a fairy door or more easy garden crafts. 17. Make homemade ice lollies Let the kids cool down in style with some easy-to-make ice lollies – the perfect treat on a hot summer’s day made from whole fruit, purées, juices or yogurt. Our best ice lollies for kids are simple enough for little ones to help out in the kitchen. 18. Go camping Plan a family camping trip to celebrate the great outdoors. Our easy family camping recipes make it simple to cook meals around the campfire and pack snacks on the go. See our packed lunches, sausage skewers, melty marshmallows and more. 19. Make a walking rainbow View Green Video on the source website Stuck inside on a rainy day? Try a simple walking rainbow science experiment with just kitchen roll and fool colouring. Juliet Sear demonstrates this fun experiments which will result in a stunning rainbow. 20. Assemble homemade instruments Explore the enriching world of music with some easy homemade instruments. Encouraging creativity and play while the kids are home from school is more important than ever, so spark their imaginations with these colourful designs. Make an elastic band guitar, paper panpipes, mini harmonica, maracas or a tin-can drum. 21. Keep kids active Make sure the little ones are getting their exercise in with our top 5 ways to keep kids active. Kids that are getting a good amount of exercise will feel the benefits in everything from bone and muscle strength to concentration skills and mood. Try going for long walks, have a water fight in the garden, a treasure hunt or a fun dance. 22. Paint some rocks Gather some smooth and fairly flat rocks from outside and paint them in vivid summer designs. They’ll brighten up the garden at any time of year, or you can use them as a paperweight, mantlepiece decoration or pick a larger stone for a homemade doorstop. For more details, see our easy rock painting for kids guide. 23. Bake a loaf of bread Teach your kids basic bread skills and get creative with our fun baking recipes. Our easy, child-friendly breads include hedgehog rolls and a simple loaf. See our top 5 bread recipes for kids for more ideas. 24. Have a family film night A night in with the family can be one of life’s simple pleasures if you do a little prep to make it an occasion, such as laying a picnic blanket out for the kids and whipping up a few treats. See our guide to the ultimate family film night for recipe ideas including popcorn, homemade slushies and the most amazing s’mores dip. 25. Fold origami shapes Origami is a simple craft that doesn’t require any special equipment – all you need to get started is a piece of paper! For a rainy day activity, we’ve chosen three ideas for kids and beginners to try. Learn how to make an origami frog, butterfly and dog with our easy origami for kids. 26. Make elephant toothpaste View Green Video on the source website Elephant toothpaste is an exciting science experiment for children to learn about chemical reactions. It gets its name from the fast-moving foam produced, which looks like a giant tube of toothpaste being squeezed. See how to make it with our elephant toothpaste recipe. 27. Go on a picnic When the sun comes out, so do the picnic blankets. Spending an afternoon in the park in always a fun summer activity for the whole family. Create a menu of sandwiches, salads, pies, sweet treats and refreshing drinks with our best family picnic recipes. 28. Make a bath bomb Try making your own homemade bath bombs for an easy kitchen project that kids will love – give these as gifts or use them to make bath times more fun. Experiment with colours, add flowers from your garden and use different shapes. Once you have the main ingredients, it’s really easy to adapt this bath bomb recipe to what you already have at home. 29. Have a pizza-making party This is a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Our guide to pizza party ideas has so many handy tips and tricks for how to host the best one. Of course, it all starts with great pizza, and we've got recipes for classic, gluten-free and keto bases, so you can get involved no matter your diet. 30. Plant a herb garden Creating a herb garden is an easy way to teach young children how to grow their own food. Many herbs are easy to grow and have fragrant leaves, providing additional interest to young minds. See how to plant a herb garden including how to grow from seeds and plant in pots. 31. Make garden wind chimes Pop outside with the kids and gather some simple materials to make this colourful craft. There are lots of different ways you can make wind chimes for your garden, but we’ve chosen this method using colourful painted sticks so that it’s easy enough for kids to make. See how to make garden wind chimes with our complete guide. 32. Enjoy an afternoon tea Have a kid-friendly afternoon tea, complete with scones, sandwiches, cakes and fruit punch. Why not get creative and try our loaded open sandwiches that are piled high with flavours such as egg, ham and cream cheese. You could also help them make their own jam to go with their scones. Pick one of our jam recipes for a delicious homemade preserve. 33. Make bubble mixture If you’ve run out of store-bought bubble mixture or need a quick entertainment idea for the kids, it’s easy to make your own bubbles from washing-up liquid and water. Learn how to make bubble mixture and find ideas for making your own bubble wands. 34. Blend up a smoothie Smoothies are a great way to cool down over the summer. Whizz up one of our kid-approved fresh fruit and veg-filled smoothies, packed with health benefits. Try our refreshing watermelon smoothie or one of our best smoothies for kids. 35. Design a puppet theatre This cheap and easy kids’ craft transforms an old cereal box into a puppet theatre – with free characters for you to print and colour in at home. See how to make a puppet theatre from scratch with our simple guide. 36. Make pom-poms Homemade pom-poms are a quick and budget-friendly craft that kids will enjoy making – you only need wool, cardboard and scissors to make one. Add a pair of googly eyes to make it into a pet! Learn how to make pom-poms with our step-by-step craft guide. 37. Make some fun cupcakes In keeping with summer, have a go at making these fun flowerpot muffins served in terracotta garden pots. Double chocolate chip muffins are topped with rice paper flowers for these eye-catching cakes. 38. Frame a photo All you need for this easy garden craft is some sticks and twine. Just be careful of splinters and thorns while searching for the perfect twig! You can leave the photo frame plain for a rustic look, or kids might like to paint it in a bright colour. To finish, add your favourite family photo or get the children to draw their own picture for the centre. See how to make a stick photo frame with our easy guide. 39. Do some yoga practice Unwind this summer and do some relaxing yoga poses with the kids. Little ones will enjoy spending the time together and finding inventive stretches to practice. Find some simple videos online or try our fun yoga for kids. 40. Treat them to a dessert fondue For an easy dessert make up some refreshing fruit skewers with chocolate dip for a fruity fondue dessert. They be great for serving outside after a barbecue and will avoid any chocolatey mess inside! 41. Draw with ice lolly pens View Green Video on the source website Cool down this summer with these frozen ice lolly pens. Juliet Sear shows us how to make these fun treats – they can be eaten and used to draw with. Kids will love to create their own artwork and let their imaginations run wild. 42. Sensory play Giving kids the freedom to be messy is not only good fun, it can help develop their hand-eye coordination and basic motor skills, too. Try our sensory play ideas with your little ones to keep them occupied and help them learn. Make a batch of rainbow spaghetti, blow some bubbles or do an ice block treasure hunt. 43. Mix up a batch of mocktails Looking for some afternoon refreshment? Keep the little ones hydrated with our mocktails for kids including watermelon lemonade, peach iced tea, ginger beer and more. Make a big batch for a kids party or pack a flask for a picnic. 44. Make a bouquet of paper flowers Celebrate colourful blooms with our easy paper flower ideas. Paper flowers crafted from card, crepe paper, tissue paper or even materials found in your kitchen look really effective. Learn how to make very easy flowers for kids and more advanced methods for grown-ups. 45. Have a pancake board brunch Our pancake sharing board would make a great weekend treat for the kids. Make the pancakes and cook the bacon first and keep warm while you assemble everything else on the board. Fill with fruits, sauces and jams for a delicious start to the day. 46. Make a healthy snack Making your own snacks can be a healthier and cheaper alternative to shop-bought versions. Making your own recipe puts you in control of the ingredients and therefore they are likely to be lower in sugar, salt, saturated fat and additives. See our healthy snack ideas for crisps and biscuits made from fruits and vegetables. 47. Play with papier-mâché Papier-mâché is a versatile craft material that can be used to build a number of projects. Make some at home with just newspaper, flour and warm water. See our papier-mâché recipe for detailed instructions and craft ideas. 48. Teach them some new kitchen skills If your little ones are new to the kitchen, check out our Kids' Kitchen series that teaches children basic culinary skills. Our videos, recipes and advice will guide you and your children through essential skills and get them confident in the kitchen. 49. Make a bee flowerpot These friendly flowerpot characters are the perfect way to get kids buzzing about planting their own herb garden, with the added bonus of being really enjoyable to make. Paint a small terracotta pot and decorate with eyes and antennae. See how to make a bee flowerpot for more details. 50. Go foraging Make the most of the fresh country air and take your kids foraging for wild foodie treats. Be sure to read up on our beginner's guide to foraging which explains what to pick and when. Discover the wonders of your local area, finding wild food including elderflower, wild garlic and fruits. Once you've got your loot, search the ingredients on our website to find the tastiest recipes. Enjoyed these ideas? See more inspiration... Sensory play ideas for kids Best indoor activities for kids Easy garden crafts for kids Father's Day card ideas for kids
Looking for romantic Valentine's Day dinner ideas? See our top meal suggestions, including classic steaks, indulgent pasta dishes and more.
Celebrate Valentine's Day at home with our delicious dinner ideas. Whether you're a beginner or a kitchen pro, we have a selection of recipes for every skill level, including classic steak, hearty pasta dishes and satisfying comfort food. Make date night extra special with our showstopping mains. Complete your meal with our Valentine’s Day dessert recipes such as chocolate fondant, panna cotta and chocolate torte. Pair your dinner with a Valentine's Day cocktail, like a passionfruit martini, a cosmopolitan or an espresso martini. Or, try something a little different, like our violet creams. If you'd prefer to do less cooking on Valentine's Day, try a restaurant meal kit and recreate your favourite dishes at home. Our review includes special-occasion boxes with luxury ingredients and vegan boxes too. Now try our Valentine's Day menu ideas, budget Valentine's Day dinner ideas, and most popular Valentine's Day recipes. Best Valentine's Day meals 1. Next level steak frites You can't go wrong with this bistro classic, served with green peppercorn sauce. Mastering this classic is sure to impress a loved one. Thin-cut sirloins are ideal for home cooks as they cook fast, develop a deeply caramelised crust and remain tender and juicy without the stress of needing to cook any big bits of internal fat. Discover our guide for how to cook the perfect steak and discover more Valentine's Day steak recipes. 2. Sausage & fennel gnocchi bake Looking for an easy yet impressive bake that won't break the bank? Throw together sausages, gnocchi, fennel, garlic, cream and parmesan to make this flavour-packed and hearty dinner for two. See our round-up of gnocchi bakes for more comfort food inspiration. 3. Stuffed pasta bake bolognese This showstopping dish isn't your average pasta bake. Stuff pasta shells with a cheesy filling made from mascarpone and mozzarella, then pair with a meaty bolognese. Bake until the top is golden and bubbling, and the pasta is tender. Find more indulgent dishes in our comfort food collection. 4. Beef stroganoff Learn the secret to tender beef in our next-level beef stroganoff. Porcini powder gives it the wow factor. Top with a generous dollop of soured cream, then scatter with parsley and a pinch of paprika. 5. Roast chicken risotto Elevate a standard risotto to something out of this world with a few tweaks – think chicken crackling and truffle oil. It’s also great for using up leftover roast chicken. Or try our next-level mushroom risotto. 6. Spaghetti puttanesca Spaghetti puttanesca is a timeless pasta dish filled with thrifty storecupboard ingredients. Cook up this classic sauce in one pan, then toss with spaghetti for a simple Valentine's Day meal. Ours is full of anchovies, black olives and capers. Now discover our ultimate pasta collection. 7. Caramelised red onion & anchovy pasta with gremolata Looking for a budget-friendly Valentine's Day dinner? This easy pasta ticks all the boxes, with caramelised onions, anchovies and a homemade gremolata that feels fancy but won't break the bank. Discover more pasta for two recipes. 8. Grilled lobster tails What could be more decadent than lobster tail covered in lemon and herb butter? This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and comes together in just 30 mins. Simply prepare the lobster tails and grill for 10 mins until cooked through. Finish with a drizzle of infused butter and a scattering of fresh herbs. Or go all out with 5 ways with oysters. 9. Beef bourguignon Take beef bourguignon to new heights with our ultimate recipe. It tastes better a day or two after cooking, which means you can make it ahead and enjoy a stress-free Valentine's, tucking into melt-in-the-mouth beef and hearty veg in a red wine sauce. 10. Melty cheese & potato pie Drawing from the apres-ski classic tartiflette, this indulgent pie transforms into a cheesy fondue with creamy sliced potatoes and crisp puff pastry. Super-indulgent and perfect for an extra-special date night dinner. 11. Smoky steak with Cajun potatoes & spicy slaw Steak and Cajun potatoes make a tasty meal for two – perfect for special occasions like Valentine's. Make our simple spicy slaw with red cabbage, onion, mayo, soured cream and chipotle. 12. Spaghetti & meatballs Make the ultimate meatballs in a rich tomato sauce for your Lady and the Tramp moment. They're made with a mix of beef and pork mince, with ciabatta breadcrumbs and a melty mozzarella or fontina middle. Try more spaghetti recipes. 13. Creamy salmon, leek & potato traybake Nestle leeks, potato and capers around salmon fillets, and pour over a creamy garlic and caper sauce. Such little effort and washing-up will leave you with all the more time with your loved one. Try more of our favourite salmon recipes. 14. Paella Choose the freshest ingredients for our world-class paella. Serve this classic Spanish seafood dish in the pan for a flavour fiesta. 15. Baked chicken arrabbiata Make this easy baked chicken arrabbiata with tomatoes, peppers and spinach for a simple Valentine's Day meal. Serve with the pasta of your choice. 16. Tomato & mascarpone risotto Creamy mascarpone makes this risotto rich and full of flavour. A sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil are the perfect finishing touches. Or try our vegetarian Valentine's Day recipes or an easy veggie menu to save you the faff. 17. Vegan wellington A decadent wellington is perfect for a special occasion. This clever vegan version is made with a mixture of mushrooms, black beans and wheat gluten, wrapped in pastry. Make a rich gravy with red wine, soy sauce, tomato purée and stock. Next discover our vegan Valentine's menu and vegan Valentine's Day recipes. 18. Macaroni cheese lasagne Combine two comfort classics for the ultimate hug in a bowl. Make a rich ragu sauce with pancetta, beef and veggies. Top with creamy macaroni cheese, then grated cheddar and mozzarella. Bake until golden brown and bubbly. 19. Slow-cooked pork, cider & sage hotpot Warm up on a chilly Valentine's Day with this glorious slow-cooked pork hotpot, cooked in cider and sage. It's topped with a crispy layer of potatoes and sage leaves. Why not serve it with one of our roasted vegetable recipes for a complementary side? 20. Baked garlic prawns with roasted peppers & gremolata toasts Looking for an easy Valentine's Day dinner that looks impressive? Say hello to these baked prawns, cooked with roasted red peppers and topped with garlic and herbs. 21. Next level spaghetti carbonara Make the ultimate spaghetti carbonara with a creamy sauce and crisp pancetta or guanciale. Top with an extra egg yolk to really show you care. 22. Pasta alla vodka You can't go wrong with this five star-rated pasta dish. Don't fear the vodka – the alcohol is cooked off to create a wonderfully creamy sauce to offset the tomato. 23. Pot-roast chicken with stock You can't go wrong with a classic roast chicken on Valentine's Day. We slow-roasted this with plenty of stock to ensure it's succulent and moist. Serve with your favourite roast dinner trimmings. 24. Baked cod with creamy mushroom & leek orzo Rustle up our baked cod with orzo, creamy mushrooms and leeks in just 20 mins. It's a super-speedy supper – so there's no excuse not to make a pudding too. 25. Creamy mushroom pasta Make this creamy mushroom pasta dish for an elegant veggie Valentine's offering. Cream, parmesan, white wine, lemon and parsley make this full of flavour. 26. Roasted red pepper soup with crispy croutons Get your meal off to a warm and cosy start with this fiery harissa and roasted red pepper soup that's sure to get the pulse raising. It makes a lighter veggie main meal or an equally romantic starter. Like a kick? Discover more spicy soup recipes. 27. Creamy fish & leek pie Make a comfort food classic Valentine's-worthy with king prawns, salmon and haddock, topped with a golden, cheesy mash. 28. Sausage ragu This flavourful sausage ragu is a great way to keep Valentine's Day affordable. Any leftover sauce can be frozen for the next time you want to ignite some passion! 29. Salmon en croûte Wow that special someone with a super-cheffy salmon en croûte. Our pro tips will guide you through, resulting in succulent salmon, soft cheese and dill encased in crisp puff pastry with a pickled cucumber side. You'll never eat out again. 30. Three-cheese meatball lasagne Switch up your usual lasagne with sausage meatballs, fennel seeds and chilli, guaranteed to get the heart racing... Enjoyed these recipes? See more inspiration... The best healthy Valentine’s Day meals Valentine's menu ideas Top 10 Valentine’s Day cake recipes Budget Valentine’s Day recipes Top 10 Valentine’s Day cupcake recipes
Give a classic pancake recipe a new twist with our savoury dinner ideas. Tuck into a spinach & ricotta traybake, creamy chicken & mushroom pancakes and more
Pancakes aren't just for breakfast anymore with our savoury dinner recipes. Make a hearty supper with our recipe ideas from curry-inspired paneer-stuffed pancakes to a comforting ricotta and spinach traybake. Or stick to more classic brunch flavours with eggs benedict and smoked salmon. For more savoury pancake inspiration, check out our top savoury pancake recipes. These recipes are a great way to use up any leftover pancakes you may have from breakfast, or make prep work even easier with ready-made pancakes. The whole family will love digging into these filling dinners on Pancake Day. Be sure to keep the pancake party going with our top pancakes to eat for dessert. See our most popular pancakes for more ideas. Want to look like an expert in the kitchen? Learn how to flip a pancake with our simple video tutorial. For more inspiration, see our ultimate collection of pancake recipes and Pancake Day ideas. For the perfect tools and pans to help with your flipping and plating up, check out our best pancake and crepe pans tried and tested and the best tools for pancake day. Top 10 pancake recipes for dinner 1. Scallion pancakes Throw a few simple storecupboard ingredients together to make these northern Chinese-inspired pancakes. They're chewy, flaky and crispy and best served with our honey-soy dipping sauce. 2. Kimchi & sesame spinach with mature cheddar crêpes Do something different on Shrove Tuesday — these veggie crêpes pack a real flavour punch with the heavenly combination of cheddar and kimchi. They're also ready on the table in 20 minutes. 3. Buckwheat galettes Tuck into these savoury dinner pancakes made with buckwheat and loaded with eggs, cheese, and ham, complemented by a side of fried mushrooms. Choose between mature gruyère, comté, or cheddar cheese based on your taste preferences. For an extra touch, pair them with steamed spinach or grilled tomatoes to capture the essence of a full English breakfast. Discover our how to cook buckwheat guide. 4. Creamy garlic butter mushroom crêpes Rustle up this savoury dish of crêpes filled with creamy garlic butter mushrooms for a comforting supper that delivers comforting flavours. Simply fill your crêpes with the mushroom and parsley mixture, then fold or roll to enclose. Spoon over any remaining mushrooms to serve. 5. Brie-stuffed pancakes with crispy bacon Cheese lovers must try these gooey brie-stuffed pancakes with crispy bacon. Spoon a tablespoon of pancake batter onto a hot frying pan and spread into a circle, then top with slices of brie and a pinch of grated cheddar and cover with more batter. These savoury dinner pancakes are a great way to use up leftover cheese. 6. Spinach & ricotta pancake bake Need to use up a batch of pancakes? Try this savoury pancake bake filled with an easy tomato sauce and a rich ricotta and spinach filling. Spread a mixture of spinach and ricotta over four pancakes, fold into triangles and layer together in a traybake, covered with tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese. 7. Asparagus pancakes with smoked salmon Fancy a lighter brunch dish for dinner? Pack in your greens with these asparagus pancakes with a side of smoked salmon. Cook asparagus spears until tender, then spoon pancake batter into a hot pan and add the asparagus on top. Serve with a generous dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of zingy lemon juice. Discover our how to cook asparagus guide. 8. Okonomiyaki This Japanese dinner pancake is a great way to use up leftovers around the kitchen. It's loaded with shredded cabbage and pork belly pieces and topped with a sweet sauce, creamy mayo, crunchy spring onion, nori strips and a sprinkle of katsuobushi. 9. Ham & cheese pancakes These simple ham and cheese pancakes are sure to please a crowd. Fill some freshly made crêpes with diced smoked ham and melty gruyère cheese, then fold into quarters and scatter with chopped chives. They'll go down a treat with kids and adults alike. 10. Smash burger pancakes This savoury dish combines the comforting fluffiness of pancakes with the hearty flavours of a classic burger. The pancakes act as a unique base, layered with juicy burger patties, melted cheese, gherkins, and a drizzle of tangy burger sauce. Enjoyed this? See more ideas... All our pancake recipes The best pancake and crepe pans How to flip a pancake How to make buttermilk Buttermilk pancakes Healthy pancakes recipes Best shop-bought pancake toppings Roti Jala (Malaysian net pancakes)
From luscious mains with all the trimmings to impressive desserts, see our best ever Christmas recipes. We've included all you'll need to cook up a showstopping Christmas lunch
If you're not sure where to start when it comes to Christmas menu planning, take a look at our 30 best ever festive recipes. Our ideas will see you through the season's dinner parties, get-togethers and the big day itself, as we've included canapés, mains, puds and everything in-between. Serve starters like our luxurious chutney and pâté; fill up turkey, ham or a special vegan main, and finish your meal with our sweet treats, like yule logs and Christmas cakes. For more inspiration, explore our Christmas dinner recipes for the ultimate festive spread. You’ll also find menu ideas to suit different diets, including a vegetarian Christmas menu and a vegan Christmas menu, as well as options for every guest list size, from our Christmas menu for 6 to a Christmas menu for two if you’re keeping things simple but still want something special. Discover all our Christmas menu ideas here. Starters 1. Baked camembert with brioche bun wreath Start your Christmas dinner in style with this baked camembert and brioche bun wreath. Created by Tom Kerridge, this impressive tear-and-share centrepiece features a gooey, melted camembert at its heart for dipping, surrounded by soft, buttery brioche rolls that are just the right size for guests to enjoy. Finish with a few bay leaves for a festive touch and serve with cranberry sauce or chilli jam for extra flavour. See our tear-and-share recipes for more ideas. 2. Caramelised onion & thyme sausage rolls These flavourful caramelised onion & thyme sausage rolls are the perfect canapé to kick off a festive party. Loaded with pork sausagemeat, caramelised onion chutney, wholegrain mustard and fresh thyme and encased in shop-bought puff pastry, they're a flavourful bite. Sprinkle over some poppy seeds for a gorgeous finish. For more bite-sized snacks, see our sausage roll recipes. 3. Broccoli quiche Thinly slice this broccoli quiche to serve as an elegant Christmas starter alongside a fresh salad, or cut into generous pieces for a Boxing Day buffet. It serves eight as part of a buffet or 12 as a starter, so it's a great way of feeding a crowd of veggies and meat-eaters without the hassle. See our Christmas canapé recipes for more party nibbles. 4. Apple & cranberry chutney This apple & cranberry chutney is a top-rated festive classic, and has hints of spice from fresh ginger and peppercorns. Make to give as an edible gift, or serve as part of your Boxing Day lunch – it pairs well with cold meats and cheeses. For more chutneys and edible gift ideas, see our Christmas chutney recipes. 5. Celeriac, hazelnut & truffle soup This luxurious celeriac, hazelnut & truffle soup is a healthy vegan starter for Christmas Day. Simmer celeriac, onions and potatoes with vegetarian stock, then stir in soya cream and blitz until completely smooth. Top with hazelnuts and a drizzle of truffle oil. Try more decadent starters with our Christmas soup recipes. Mains 6. Brown sugar & spice-glazed turkey with candied carrots For an impressive centrepiece, make our brown sugar & spice-glazed turkey. Full of festive flavours, this turkey is seasoned with star anise, cloves, ginger, nutmeg and black pepper, then basted in a mixture of muscovado sugar, maple syrup, butter and cider vinegar. Season as far ahead as possible to make sure the spices sink deep into the meat, and don't just flavour the surface. For more classic roasts, see our turkey collection. 7. Cola ham with maple & mustard glaze Our five-star cola ham with maple & mustard glaze is an easy Christmas main that uses storecupboard ingredients. Cook a boneless gammon joint in stock spiced with cinnamon, peppercorns and bay leaves, then glaze with a sticky maple syrup mixture. Make the ham on the day or up to two days ahead so you can prepare in advance. See our Christmas ham recipes for more inspiration. 8. Beetroot & red onion tarte tatin Cater to vegan diets with this showstopping beetroot & red onion tarte tatin. Fill shop-bought puff pastry with festive flavours for an easy, elegant main. Don't stress if the tart sticks to the pan and won't turn out – just leave the pastry on the plate, use a spoon to scrape out the filling and arrange on top. See our vegan Christmas collection for more recipes. 9. Wild mushroom, port & thyme turkey wellington This lavish wild mushroom, port & thyme turkey wellington makes for a dramatic centrepiece but is not too difficult to put together. Keep Christmas Day stress-free by assembling a day or two in advance, then simply brush with egg and bake on the day. Serve in thick slices with turkey gravy. For more glorious ways with pastry, see our wellington recipes. 10. Roast turkey breast Whip up this roast turkey breast if you're entertaining a smaller crowd. Cooking a large single turkey breast is easier than roasting a whole turkey, and this version uses just four ingredients. Use up the excess veg and juices from carving in this make-ahead gravy. For more easy mains, see our turkey breast collection. 11. Squash & chestnut crackers Vegetarians will love these these squash & chestnut crackers. Filled with butternut squash, mushrooms, chestnuts and melty cheddar, they're a fun, festive way to serve up a delicious main course. To make them vegan, omit the butter and cheese, use dairy-free pastry and brush with a dairy-free milk alternative. See our vegetarian Christmas recipes for more veggie mains. 12. Baked salmon fillet with pickled cranberries, parsley & pistachios Brighten up oily fish such as salmon with a spoonful of homemade pickled cranberries. They bring a tangy contrast and add a festive pop of colour to your plate. This vibrant seafood centrepiece looks impressive yet takes just 45 minutes from start to finish and serves up to eight. See our Christmas salmon recipes for more festive fish inspiration. 13. Turkey crown kyiv Try this buttery turkey crown kyiv, a twist on a classic dish, for Christmas. Prepare the filling in advance to get ahead, then pipe under the skin on the day to keep the meat moist and flavourful. Whizz some ciabatta, baguette or sourdough in a food processor and roast to create a crunchy breadcrumb topping. For more fuss-free dinners, see our turkey crown recipes. 14. Vegan butternut & pecan spiral pies Create a festive meat-free centrepiece with this easy filo pastry pie, perfect for simplifying your Christmas cooking. The squash filling is rich with umami flavour from miso paste and soy sauce, balanced by a hint of maple sweetness. You can assemble and freeze the pie ahead of time before baking, so all that’s left to do on the day is cook it straight from frozen for a stress-free vegetarian Christmas meal. For more veggie dishes, see our vegetarian dinner recipes. Sides 15. Pigs-in-blankets Christmas stuffing balls Combine two festive favourites, pigs in blankets and stuffing, with these clever stuffing balls made from sausagemeat wrapped in bacon. A handful of dried cranberries adds a touch of sweetness that balances the rich, savoury flavours perfectly. See our pigs in blankets recipes for more ideas. 16. Sage & onion yorkshire puddings Take your yorkies to the next level with these sage & onion Yorkshire puddings. They've got extra savoury flavour, and can be made up to a day ahead to lighten your workload on Christmas Day. Try our Yorkshire pudding collection for more recipes. 17. Apricot & pistachio stuffing Try something a little different with this apricot & pistachio stuffing. Add onions, pistachios and apricots to a crusty sourdough base and bake until golden and crunchy. Drizzle with melted butter and top with fried sage leaves for added flavour. See our Christmas stuffing recipes for more scrumptious sides. 18. Miso-glazed carrots with whipped ricotta dip Give roasted carrots a flavour boost with a glossy garlic, miso, chilli and honey glaze. Serve them on a bed of whipped ricotta mixed with lemon and olive oil, then finish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for extra colour and crunch. 19. Lemon, garlic & bay roast potatoes These lemon, garlic & bay roast potatoes are a Christmas dinner essential. Roast the potatoes in hot oil, then zest lemon directly over the top for a bright twist. These crowd-pleasing potatoes are also vegan and gluten-free. For more festive roasties, see our Christmas roast potato recipes. 20. Make-ahead madeira gravy Serve this rich vegetarian gravy as it is, or use it as a flavour-packed base for turkey gravy. If you don’t have madeira, swap it for the same amount of dry sherry. Once cooled, the gravy can be frozen for up to three months, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time for a Sunday roast or Christmas. Make a large batch and freeze it in portions, ready to defrost and reheat whenever needed. See our Christmas gravy recipes for more rich sauces. 21. Sloe gin cranberry sauce What could be more festive than this sloe gin cranberry sauce? This twist on a classic sauce is made with just four ingredients and ready in 10 minutes. Top off your dinner with our festive cranberry sauce recipes. 22. Cauliflower cheese crumble Make cauliflower cheese a star of your Christmas spread with this rich, umami-packed version from Brin Pirathapan. Anchovies bring a gentle savoury depth, while mustard and a pinch of cayenne add just enough heat to balance the creamy sauce. Discover more cauliflower cheese recipes. 23. Sizzled sprouts with pistachios & pomegranate These sizzled sprouts with pistachios & pomegranate are a deliciously different side dish. Brussels sprouts are fried until blistered, then tossed with toasted pistachios, juicy pomegranate seeds and pomegranate molasses to taste. They're also gluten-free and vegan, making them great for crowds with dietary restrictions. Add some more green to your table with these Christmas sprouts recipes. Sweets 24. Cinnamon swirl mince pies These cinnamon swirl mince pies are a glorious mash-up of Christmas flavours. Sprinkle cinnamon and golden caster sugar on puff pastry, then roll and slice into thin rounds to use as a pastry case. Fill with mincemeat, then top with another cinnamon swirl and bake until golden. For more festive treats, see our mince pies collection. 25. Make & mature Christmas cake Our five-star make & mature Christmas cake is a true festive classic. Bake in advance and feed regularly with rum, brandy or whisky. Use a mix of raisins, sultanas, currants, cherries, cranberries, prunes or figs. Just remember to stop feeding the cake for the final week before Christmas to give the surface a chance to dry before icing. See our Christmas cake recipes for more yuletide bakes. 26. Next level yule log This next level yule log is a decadent dessert. The sponge is flourless, so if you use a natural cocoa powder without additives, it's also gluten-free. Filled with brandy butter and covered in a chocolate truffle coating, it's full of Christmas flavours. See our yule log recipes for more chocolatety showstoppers. 27. Christmas trees cake Get kids into the Christmas spirit with a fun family baking session. This clever recipe yields two cakes, making it a perfect opportunity for a friendly competition to see who can decorate their Christmas tree cake the best. Find more stunning dessert inspiration with our Christmas baking recipes. 28. Mince pie brownies These mash-up mince pie brownies will go down a storm at a Christmas party or festive event. Combine whole mince pies with brownie batter and bake. These treats will keep in an airtight container for a week and in the freezer for up to a month. Find more squidgy bakes in our Christmas chocolate collection. 29. Gingerbread pancakes Make these American-style gingerbread pancakes on Christmas morning for a special breakfast the whole family will love. The fluffy pancakes are spiced with warming cinnamon and ginger, then topped with dates, a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of crème fraîche. Start the day with our Christmas breakfast recipes. 30. Brown butter & cardamom lebkuchen Make a twist on the classic lebkuchen over Christmas. Spiced with fragrant cardamom, brown butter gives these chewy cookies a nutty edge. These cookies keep in an airtight container for up to five days so they make a great homemade Christmas gift that you could bring with you to any celebration. From spices like ginger and cinnamon and fruits and nuts, bake up a storm this festive season, with our Christmas biscuit recipes. Enjoyed these Christmas treats? See more festive recipes Complete Christmas menu: classic Christmas buffet recipes Vegan Christmas menu Christmas leftovers recipes Easy Christmas desserts What are your favourite Christmas recipes? Leave a comment below...
Celebrate a meat- and dairy-free Christmas in style with our top vegan party foods, from canapés and starters to plant-based mains and festive desserts.
Looking for vegan Christmas party ideas this festive season? If you're hosting a bash and catering for vegan guests or are vegan yourself, our plant-based Christmas recipes are sure to please both veggies and meat-eaters alike. Our vegan buffet food includes a variety of sweet and savoury bites to suit all tastes and budgets. From quick and easy picky bits including a silky hummus and garlic and herb 'cheese' balls to our mushroom bourguignon pithivier as a showstopping centrepiece. On the sweeter side, take your pick from vegan takes on traditional festive mince pies and florentines to a crowd-pleasing chocolate traybake that everyone can tuck into. For more vegan yuletide bites, see our vegan Christmas collection as well as our vegan Christmas starters, vegan Christmas baking recipes and vegan Christmas recipes. To take the stress our of planning the big day itself, try our vegan Christmas menu. 1. Luxury hummus Kick-start the party with this silky luxury hummus. Quick to make and so much more delicious than shop-bought, serve this dip drizzled with olive oil and topped with toasted chickpeas, spices and pomegranate seeds to make it extra-special. Serve with crudités and warm pittas for dunking. Try more takes on this classic party dip with our hummus collection and next try our classic guacamole. 2. Vegetable samosas Not just a starter for curries, these vegetable samosas will be right at home among your vegan Christmas spread. Making them is worth the extra effort – your guests will be rewarded with crisp pockets bursting with curry-spiced potatoes, carrots and peas. Now try our vegan Christmas side dishes. 3. Vegan miso mushroom & spinach pithiviers Impress guests with these crisp pithiviers filled with an umami-rich spinach and portobello mushroom filling. Even better, they can be frozen up to a month in advance to take the stress out of hosting. Try more vegan ways with mushrooms. 4. Vegan garlic & herb 'cheese' balls Using ready-made cashew nut cheese means these nifty nibbles take just 30 minutes to prepare, and even less time to be devoured by your guests! Leftovers, if there are any, can be transformed into a vegan cheeseboard with homemade rosemary crackers and fresh fig chutney. 5. Chilli, maple & ginger glazed vegan cocktail sausages A festive spread is not complete without a cocktail sausage or two, and these vegan ones are brushed with a sticky chilli, maple & ginger coating to make them even more irresistible. The recipe can easily be scaled up to suit your guest numbers – the more the merrier! Now try our vegan sausage rolls. 6. Vegan rainbow spring rolls Brighten up your table with these colourful vegan rainbow spring rolls. Fill with courgette, carrot, mango, Thai basil and mint leaves, then serve with chopped peanuts and sweet chilli sauce. For more ideas, see our spring roll recipes. 7. Vegan mushroom pâté This luxurious vegan pâté can be made ahead so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities with your friends. For a fancy final flourish, top with easy candied walnuts. Now try our top 10 easy vegan snacks. 8. Vegan nuggets Made with cauliflower, carrots, cannellini beans and chickpea flour, these vegan nuggets are not your usual highly processed fare. Perfect for dunking into our tomato & red pepper dip or our beetroot hummus. Next try more healthy vegan snack ideas. 9. Beetroot & red onion tarte tatin This beetroot & red onion tarte tatin makes a showstopping Christmas dinner party main. Flavoured with star anise, rice wine vinegar and brown sugar, the moreish beetroot filling is perfectly paired with golden, flaky pastry. Top with orange zest and peppery green salad for freshness. Try our Christmas vegan main recipes for more dishes. 10. Vegan mince pies For a bite of something sweet, bake these vegan mince pies. Vegan pastry made with flour, coconut oil, a dairy-free milk alternative and ice-cold vodka creates the base, which is filled with a mixture of grated apple, mixed dried fruit, black cherries and chopped hazelnuts. See our vegan Christmas baking recipes for more desserts. 11. Mini nut roasts with candied carrots Make your next dinner party feel really special by serving these mini nut roasts with candied carrots as individual mains. Loaded with nuts, pulses and mixed mushrooms, they're deceptively filling, and are topped with sage, thyme and carrots sweetened with maple syrup. For more hearty veggie dishes, see our nut roast collection. 12. Vegan florentines Studded with dried cranberries, flaked almonds, crystallised ginger and orange zest, nothing says Christmas much more than a florentine. Try more vegan baking recipes here. 13. Vegetable gyoza Use shop-bought gyoza skins to save time and effort with this perfect-for-a-party recipe. The shining star of the show is the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar and crispy chilli oil dipping sauce and the filling can be adapted with whatever veg takes your fancy. Now discover our top vegan snacks. 14. Vegan ‘smoked salmon’ toasts These clever vegan ‘smoked salmon’ toasts are entirely plant-based, but have the same flavour profile you'd expect from real salmon. Carrot ribbons are brined in lapsang soushong tea, then served on toasted baguettes spread with vegan cream cheese. Top with a pinch of dried seaweed for an extra touch of salt. For more party snacks, see our vegan canapé collection. 15. Teriyaki tempeh with peanut dip These savoury teriyaki tempeh skewers are perfect for party snacking, and are easy to make. Simply coat fried tempeh in teriyaki sauce, then pierce with a wooden skewer and cover in sesame seeds. We've served them with a moreish dipping sauce made with peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice and soy sauce. For more festive nibbles, see our vegetarian Christmas canapé recipes. 16. Vegan cheesecake The secret to this non-dairy cheesecake is vegan cream cheese and coconut oil. The no-bake delight can also be made up to three days in advance and topped with your favourite seasonal fruit. Got a vegan sweet tooth? Discover our most indulgent vegan Christmas desserts here. 17. Sweet potato parcel This sweet potato parcel is full of Christmassy cranberries and chestnuts and made with crisp filo pastry. To make the parcel extra crunchy, scrunch up the top layer of pastry. Find more ideas in our vegan dinner party collection. 18. Vegan Christmas cookies Filled with festive spices, cranberries and pistachios, these vegan cookies are sure to go down a storm at your Christmas gathering. The raw cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to three months, so you'll be armed with sweet treats at a moment's notice. Discover our best ever vegan biscuits. 19. Pecan-stuffed dates Make these pecan-stuffed dates the night before your party, then chill and bake the next day. Stuff medjool dates with chopped pecans, fresh breadcrumbs, shallots and garlic, then brush with olive oil and top with sage leaves before baking. For more snacks, see our party food recipes. 20. Vegan pie This vegan pie contains beautiful layers of colourful beetroot, sweet potato, chard and celeriac that are seasoned with cinnamon, cumin, thyme and garlic. The homemade vegan pastry is simple to make, too. For more filling mains, see our vegan dinner recipes. 21. Vegan chocolate party traybake No party would be complete without a rich dessert, and this easy vegan chocolate traybake is no exception. Top with vegan-friendly multicoloured sprinkles for a nostalgic finishing touch. Discover more vegan-friendly desserts with our vegan Christmas desserts collection. Enjoyed these vegan recipes? See more Christmas food ideas Vegan Christmas menu 30 best ever Christmas recipes Our top 9 vegan Christmas mains Our most indulgent vegan Christmas desserts What will you be serving at your Christmas party? Leave a comment below...
Best Thanksgiving recipes and menu ideas
Discover our best American-inspired Thanksgiving recipes for feeding a crowd, including must-haves like roast turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.
Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the US, and shines a spotlight on the best of autumn's harvest with an indulgent feast. Our guide has everything you'll want to include in your own Thanksgiving spread, from starters and showstopping mains, to rich puddings. Fill your plate with our top picks. Kick off your festivities with a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving cocktail like an espresso martini or mulled cider. Catering for a meat-free crowd? See our vegetarian and vegan Thanksgiving recipes. See our classic Thanksgiving side dish recipes from green bean casserole to mashed potatoes and more. Finish off your feast with a hearty Thanksgiving dessert recipe. For more American-inspired recipes, see our ultimate Thanksgiving collection, or browse our best Thanksgiving gifts to buy for perfectly themed presents. Starters Soup Our warming spicy pumpkin soup is the perfect way to kick off a Thanksgiving feast. Combine roasted pumpkin or squash with cream, stock and sautéed onions, then serve topped with homemade croutons and toasted pumpkin seeds. For a more unconventional option, give everyone a fork to dip with and a spoon for scooping out this pumpkin fondue bowl. Or, try our roasted sweet potato & carrot soup or parsnip & apple soup for a dish that lets the best of seasonal winter produce shine. To make things even easier, prepare your soup ahead of time in a soup maker, then freeze and defrost on the day for a fuss-free meal. Read our soup maker review for the best buys. For more warming starters, see our autumn soup recipes. Cornbread Hearty, American-style cornbread is a great partner to soup or makes a delicious starter on its own. This pumpkin cornbread with whipped jalapeño butter combines all the best flavours of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Make your own using polenta or cornmeal, and for extra heat, try our quick chilli cornbread. Classic cornbread wedges are also a versatile side to serve with your dinner. Our bacon & maple cornbread is a great transportable snack if you fancy a Thanksgiving walk. See more cornbread recipes. Salad Tom Kerridge's autumn vegetable salad with saffron dressing makes an elegant starter. This healthy salad is loaded with rainbow carrots, courgettes, broccoli, plum tomatoes and cucumber. And, as it's both vegan and gluten-free, it's a crowd-pleasing dish that almost anyone can enjoy. Or make the most of cauliflower in this wonderful winter salad with raisins, dill and walnuts, and a homemade butter bean and smoked paprika hummus. It has a lovely combination of hot and cold elements. Or if you prefer something quick and simple, try our garden salad recipe. For more fresh dishes, see our salad recipes. Mains Turkey Truly the star of the show, the turkey can make or break a Thanksgiving dinner. But, our perfect pancetta & roast shallot-stuffed turkey is a winner – the pancetta under the skin keeps the meat beautifully moist. You could also try our classic roast turkey with lemon & garlic, which uses up storecupboard ingredients and creates an extra-crisp skin on the turkey. If you're serving a smaller crowd, this roast turkey breast is ready in less than two hours and serves four to six. If you want to take chance out of the equation and learn how to make the most perfectly moist turkey, read our helpful guides on how to defrost a turkey, how to baste a turkey and how to brine a turkey. For more, see our turkey recipes. Vegan alternative Accommodate veggie and vegan guests with our showstopping centrepieces. This impressive stuffed pumpkin is full of autumnal flavours, such as fennel, apple and pecans. Our sweet potato parcel is enhanced with sage, chestnuts and seasonal cranberry sauce. Or, try this beetroot & red onion tarte tatin for a colourful main topped with peppery salad. See our autumn vegan recipes for more ideas. Sides Potatoes Smooth, fluffy mash is a classic Thanksgiving side. Our creamy mashed potatoes taste indulgently rich, but use clever substitutions to reduce the fat and calories. Mash your potatoes with an electric whisk for a light, airy texture. This roast sweet potato, squash & garlic mash is also a great option. Serve your potatoes with turkey & chestnut gravy or our vegetarian gravy. Take your Thanksgiving feast to the next level with a batch of cheesy, creamy scalloped potatoes. Layers of tender potatoes are covered in a silky cream sauce and topped with golden brown melted parmesan. Elevate your traditional Thanksgiving with these Hasselback potatoes flavoured with garlic and rosemary. Using similar-sized potatoes helps them cook evenly. Follow along with our helpful step-by-step video. Green bean casserole Green bean casserole is a quintessential American treat at Thanksgiving. Celebrate pure comfort food with this green bean casserole with chestnut mushrooms and creamy white sauce. If you'd prefer a lighter version, try our healthy green beans with shallots, garlic & toasted almonds. See our green bean recipes to add more green to your plate. Stuffing Our classic Thanksgiving stuffing combines traditional holiday flavours with fresh herbs. The top is crispy while the middle remains tender, making it perfect for accompanying your full roast dinner. To take the recipe to the next level, try using sourdough bread for tangy flavour. Cornbread is another tasty traditional stuffing option. Our cornbread stuffing recipe is loaded with crispy bacon, fresh herbs and hearty vegetables. To keep things meat-free, try our vegan stuffing recipe made with nuts, lentils and breadcrumbs. See our stuffing collection for more recipe inspiration. Popovers Make these moreish popovers to serve with your Thanksgiving dinner or Sunday roast. Very similar to Yorkshire puddings, popovers are an American favourite and easy to make. Cranberry sauce Love it or hate it, cranberry sauce is a must-have on any American Thanksgiving menu. Our sloe gin cranberry sauce gives a modern spin to a time-honoured classic. Our easiest ever version, really simple cranberry sauce, uses just three ingredients and takes just 15 minutes to make. Try spicing it up with chilli, ginger or a splash of port. For more ideas, see our cranberry sauce collection. Dessert Pie No Thanksgiving dinner would be complete without a big slice of pie to finish. Our top-rated Classic pumpkin pie is full of warming autumn spices, such as nutmeg and cinnamon. Vegans needn't miss out with our vegan pumpkin pie. Or try a twist on the classic with our pumpkin & pecan cheesecake pie. New England pecan pie is full of sweet maple flavour and sticky golden syrup. Or, try our clever vegan pecan pie made with silken tofu for a perfect texture. Shine a spotlight on seasonal ingredients with this sweet potato pie. The creamy potatoes work beautifully for the filling, which is encased in a crumbly shortcrust pastry. Or, keep it simple with our ultimate apple pie. Whichever you choose, serve your pie with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. For more indulgent desserts, see our sweet pie collection. Enjoyed our Thanksgiving menu? See our other autumn recipes: Autumn recipes Comfort food recipes Autumn vegetarian recipes Bonfire Night recipes Healthy autumn recipes How will you celebrate Thanksgiving this year? Leave a comment below.
Need to feed the family in a hurry? Make our winter dinners in 30 minutes or less, from comforting bangers and mash, a wholesome curry and one-pot wonders
When you're racing against the clock to get dinner on the table, our speedy dinners are ready in 30 minutes and under. From vegetarian options to delightful vegan choices, there's something for everyone. On a chilly winter's evening, there's nothing more comforting than diving into a bowl of our warming curries and soothing ramen. Soups are the unsung heroes of midweek meals, so don't miss out on our collection of winter soup recipes. As the cold weather settles in, so does the looming threat of winter ailments. Our arsenal of healthy winter recipes is here to arm you with the nutrients necessary to boost your body's defences. If you're trying to keep your food budget in check during these challenging times, dive into our budget-friendly winter recipes for inspiration. Plus, see our quick winter recipes and top winter dinners for even more ideas. Looking for more speedy winter recipes? See our quick winter recipes and quick family comfort food recipes, as well as our quick and healthy dinners to survive the festive season. Add more recipes to your rotation with our top dinners for when you don’t know what to cook and easy weeknight family dinners. 1. Coconut & squash dhansak This five-star coconut & squash dhansak is an easy vegetarian curry, perfect for a weeknight meal. It's full of warming spices and sure to take the edge off a cold winter night. Cook butternut squash in the microwave to save time, then combine with a thick curry sauce. Top with a generous dollop of coconut yogurt and serve with warm naan. For more speedy and spicy dishes, see our curry recipes. 2. Sausages with winter veg mash Nothing says winter comfort more than a loaded plate of bangers and mash. For a healthier, even more seasonal twist, shredded brussels sprouts and parsnips are added to the mash – and it's ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish. Discover more warming inspiration with our most comforting potato recipes. Also, try out our sausages with pesto mash recipe. 3. Sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot This sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot is full of winter flavours, perfect for a comforting supper. Remove pork sausages from their skins and fry until crisp around the edges. Add gnocchi, chicken stock and chopped kale, and cook until the gnocchi is tender and the kale has wilted. For more fuss-free meals, see our one-pot recipes. 4. Easy leftover chicken curry Put those leftover chicken scraps to good use in this quick and effortless curry with sugar snap peas. It's allergen-friendly, being both egg- and nut-free. Plus, it's gentle on the sugar content for those watching their intake. Top it off with a generous sprinkling of zesty chilli and fresh coriander to bring it all together in style. Check out more leftover chicken recipes. 5. Fragrant chilli crab-fried rice with crispy leeks Put a twist on fried rice with white crabmeat, zingy lime, punchy sriracha and crispy fried leeks. It'll transform your weeknight dinner into something more special, and it's on the table in 30 minutes flat. 6. Air fryer loaded frittata with bacon & cheddar Speedy dinner lovers – the air fryer is your best friend. This frittata recipe only requires a handful ingredients, making it a quick, easy and delicious midweek meal. Discover more of our air fryer recipes for beginners. 7. Speedy pasta bolognese A simplified version of the classic spaghetti bolognese, this recipe bulks out lean minced beef with sliced mushrooms for added flavour and nutritional benefit – perfect for a quick midweek dinner. Or, try our twists on spaghetti bolognese. 8. Vegan ramen A warming bowl of vegan ramen is so comforting. Dried shiitake mushrooms and white miso paste provide savoury flavour, and it's super filling with rice noodles, tofu, pak choi, carrots and beansprouts. Or, try our Thai green tofu noodles – it's low in calories and contains a good balance of nutrients to fill you up. Top with sesame oil, sriracha, chopped coriander, crushed peanuts, crumbled sheets of nori or dried chilli flakes. For more Japanese-inspired flavours, see our ramen collection. 9. Air fryer tuna pasta bake A pasta bake is like a warm hug on a cold day – and this air fryer version helps speed up the process from chopping board to plate. Topped with bubbling, golden mozzarella, serve with a fresh salad or side of your choice. Discover more tuna pasta bake recipes. 10. Quinoa with stir-fried winter veg Full of nourishing winter veg, this vegan stir-fry packs in plenty of healthy protein from the quinoa. Find more vegan quinoa recipes for when you're bored of rice, or discover more recipes with our quick and easy collection. 11. Baked camembert pasta alfredo Give the classic pasta dish a festive twist by using silky, melting camembert. It's a wonderfully comforting supper on cold winter nights and adds a touch of luxury to weeknight meals. Check out more camembert recipes as well as our cosy winter pasta dishes. 12. Speedy lentil coconut curry This quick and easy curry has such great depth of flavour – it tastes like it’s been cooked for hours. The good news is it takes just 25 minutes to make, plus it serves a family of four. It's healthy too, as well as being low in fat and calories. Try more quick curry recipes as well as these quick vegetarian meals. Enjoyed these quick dinners? See more speedy recipes... Quick chicken dinner ideas Quick after-school suppers Quick and healthy dinner recipes Quick family recipes Quick dinner ideas
Get ready for Christmas with our easy gammon glaze recipes. Make some simple sauces using honey, brown sugar, English mustard or maple syrup.
Christmas wouldn't be complete without a delicious glazed gammon centrepiece. A sticky, sweet glaze contrasts the saltiness of the ham perfectly. Our recipes are easy to make, and use simple ingredients such as honey, brown sugar, English mustard and maple syrup. If you prefer yours with some extra spice, try infusing the glaze with allspice or cinnamon. Get ready for the big day with our easy gammon glaze recipes. For more Christmas inspiration, see our gammon recipes, Christmas dinner recipes and easy Christmas desserts. 1. Glazed gammon This classic recipe is great if you're looking to keep things simple. Simply combine honey, English mustard and a couple tablespoons of dark brown sugar. Brush half the mixture over the ham, roast for 15 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze and finish roasting. 2. Cola ham with maple & mustard glaze Our highly rated cola ham recipe is sure to be a hit on Christmas Day. Mix 150ml maple syrup with 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar and a pinch of ground cloves or Chinese five-spice powder in a jug. Score the fat all over in a criss-cross pattern to absorb the glaze, then brush the glaze over the meat and roast. 3. Marmalade, ginger & star anise baked ham Put your favourite marmalade to work with this spiced baked ham recipe. Heat marmalade with light brown sugar, lime juice, ginger and 2 star anise until the sugar and marmalade have dissolved. Leave to cool a little so the glaze thickens, then brush onto the ham. 4. Mustard & apple glazed ham This sticky, sweet and spicy ham is sure to impress on your Christmas table. The three types of mustard, as well as dry cider, fresh sage and bay leaves, offer so much flavour that everyone will be coming back for seconds. 5. Ginger beer & tamarind ham Take your gammon to the next level with this flavour-packed recipe. Let the spicy notes of ginger come into their own in this Christmas ham. It’s poached in ginger beer, then basted in a sticky tamarind glaze 6. Spiced Christmas gammon with membrillo glaze Give festive ham a Spanish-inspired twist with a sticky quince and orange glaze. Combine membrillo (quince paste) with sherry vinegar and orange juice. Add some spice with ground allspice – the flavour combination adds a warming kick. 7. Spiced ginger-glazed ham This easy glazed ham recipe only calls for five ingredients. Cook the ham in a mixture of ginger ale, water and allspice berries. Once the liquid reduces down, remove the ham and combine with light brown sugar, grated ginger and crushed allspice. Simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes until syrupy. 8. Miso-glazed roast ham Try this flavourful ham recipe for a unique take on a gammon glaze. Combine demerara sugar, cider vinegar, dark miso paste, heather honey, dry sherry, English mustard and Chinese five-spice powder. Tip all the glaze ingredients into a small pan and bring to a simmer, stirring until everything is mixed. Use a pastry brush to paint the ham evenly with the glaze. 9. Sticky maple-glazed ham Slow-roast a whole leg of gammon with apple juice, then cover in a sticky spiced glaze for a Christmas treat. Make a glaze by combining maple syrup, apple juice and wholegrain mustard, then season with cinnamon, ginger and cloves. The sweet flavours of the apple juice pair perfectly with salty gammon. 10. Slow-baked sticky gammon For something a bit different, this gammon is between a traditional roasted ham and pulled pork. Whizz pineapple juice, allspice, treacle, ginger, ketchup, sweet chilli and honey together to make a purée. Spoon all over the gammon and roast for 30 minutes until hot and sticky, then loosely break into large chunks to serve. Discover more Christmas inspiration... Best ever Christmas sides Best ever Christmas recipes The best Christmas pudding recipes Our best Christmas cakes How to feed a Christmas cake
Celebrate Bonfire Night with our autumnal recipes, perfect for sharing with big families. Cook up traditional bangers, savoury pies or hearty traybakes
Fill up on a hearty, warming Bonfire Night dinner before enjoying the fireworks to keep the whole family going. Our recipes include satisfying mains like lasagne and brisket, or, try our customisable jacket potatoes and hot dogs with all the toppings and trimmings. We have also included some crowd-pleasing dessert recipes like traditional parkin or twists on classics such as toffee apple bread & butter pudding. For more inspiration, see our ultimate Bonfire Night collection. Our Bonfire Night drinks recipe collection has plenty of ideas for warming cocktails, mocktails and hot chocolates to keep a crowd warm while you watch the fireworks, or for a showstopper of your own check out our Bonfire Night cake recipes to seriously impress. Plus, if you're building your own bonfire or campfire, we've found the best marshmallow toasting kits to make the best ever gourmet s'mores. 20 Bonfire Night meals 1. Jalapeño & cheese pinwheels If you need a fuss-free starter or a crowd-pleasing snack to tide everyone over before the main event, these jalapeño & cheese pinwheels are just the ticket. Made with only seven ingredients they’re salty, cheesy and carry a gentle, warming kick. Eat with your hands, they’re ideal for nibbling while watching the fireworks – no rumbling tummies to spoil the celebrations! Discover more savoury puff pastry recipes. 2. Butternut squash soup Warm up before heading out to enjoy the fireworks with a comforting bowl of autumnal squash soup. A touch of chilli adds a gentle kick, while crème fraîche enriches the soup with a creamy finish. For more warming soups, check out our winter soup recipes. 3. Brie & cranberry twists These bite-sized canapés are perfect for whetting the appetite before a hearty main course. Elegant with creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce, they’re also effortless to prepare, requiring just six simple ingredients. Discover more vegetarian canapé recipes. 4. Deep-fried olives If you're looking for a starter or canapé to nibble on during the fireworks, these deep-fried olives are a must. Serve them with sophisticated lemon and vermouth mayonnaise for an extra touch of indulgence. 5. Catherine wheel toad-in-the-hole with honey & mustard onions What could be better than combining sausage and Yorkshire pudding? This Catherine wheel toad-in-the-hole with honey & mustard onions has a striking coiled design that's sure to impress at a family get-together. Cook 12 linked chipolatas or one large coiled Cumberland sausage in batter, then top with caramelised onions. Serve with our creamy mashed potatoes, rich onion gravy and roasted veg. For more inspiration, see our toad-in-the-hole recipes. 6. Sticky cider onion hot dogs Take these sticky cider onion hot dogs to a bonfire for a great dinner on the go. Cook up your favourite sausages and pile on caramelised onions and a mustard-mayo sauce. Or, try hoisin hot dogs cooked in hoisin sauce and topped with spring onion and sriracha mayonnaise. Our honey-mustard hot dogs are loaded with melty cheddar and emmental cheese, while our buffalo hot dogs are topped with spicy buffalo sauce, blue cheese and crispy fried onions. See more hot dog recipes for the ultimate selection. 7. Three-cheese meatball lasagne Nothing says comfort food like our three-cheese meatball lasagne – it's indulgent and perfect for a special occasion. Swap out traditional meat sauce for chunky sausage meatballs. This showstopping main serves up to eight people, making it great for a larger family to tuck into before heading out for the festivities. Warm up on a chilly night with our comfort food recipes. 8. One-pot sausage casserole with garlic breadcrumbs Transform humble sausages and beans from a simple midweek meal into an elegant one-pot casserole, perfect for entertaining. The garlic, parsley, and breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch to this rich and smoky dish. For more Bonfire Night staples, see our sausage recipes. 9. Bonfire Night baked potatoes These Bonfire Night baked potatoes are an easy, portable dinner, perfect for standing around a fire. Bake in the oven until completely tender, then scoop out the middle and mix with cheese, bacon and parsley. Return to their skins and top with cheese such as reblochon, raclette or article" data-tooltip-flyout="true" data-tooltip-hide-delay="200" data-tooltip-width="350">gruyère. See our collection of baked potato recipes for more simple dinners. 10. Chicken, leek & mushroom pies Use up leftover roast chicken with Tom Kerridge's chicken, leek & mushroom pies. Use shop-bought pastry or make your own with our pie pastry recipe. To keep things simple, prepare the filling up to two days ahead then just assemble and bake. Individual pies are a more convenient way to take dinner on the move, too. More scrumptious fillings can be found in our pie collection. 11. Pulled firecracker brisket Share this pulled firecracker brisket with up to eight people and serve in warm flatbreads or jacket potatoes. The smoky brisket is meltingly tender with a spicy kick from cayenne pepper and red chillies. Cook the meat low and slow for six hours, then shred with two forks. Serve with charred sweetcorn salsa and a generous dollop of soured cream. For more crowd-pleasing recipes, see our sharing collection. 12. Chipotle sweet potato & black bean stew with cheddar dumplings ` If you're feeding a crowd on Bonfire Night and need a dish to please vegetarians and meat lovers, this hearty sweet potato and black bean stew with cheddar dumplings is the perfect choice. Adding chipotle chilli paste and jalapeño slices brings a fiery kick, sure to warm you up as you enjoy the fireworks. Check out our winter stew recipes, perfect for feeding a crowd. 13. Vegan lentil & sweet potato cottage pie Try this vegan cottage pie for a hearty, meat-free option packed with sweet and umami flavours. The base combines rich red wine with savoury soy sauce, while the sweet potato topping, balanced with mustard powder, adds just the right touch to temper the sweetness. Discover more vegan comfort food recipes. 14. Parkin Keep it classic this Bonfire Night by finishing your meal with a slice of traditional parkin. This Yorkshire favourite is a rich ginger cake, flavoured with syrupy molasses, hearty oatmeal, and warming spices – perfect for the chilly autumn air. 15. Toffee apple bread & butter pudding Toffee apples are a Bonfire Night staple, and in this pudding they meet comforting bread and butter pudding for a cosy autumnal mash-up. Sticky caramel sauce, tart apples and buttery brioche are soaked in custard and baked until bubbling. Serve with ice cream to melt on top, or a drizzle of double cream. Toffee and apple is a classic pairing. Discover more fun twists with our top toffee apple desserts. 16. Easy s'mores Ever tried an American-style s’more? It’s the perfect Bonfire Night treat – easy to hold (almost neatly) while you watch the fireworks. Toast your marshmallows the traditional way over a fire, but if the cold’s too much or you’re short on outdoor space, you can use the grill instead. Discover more s'mores recipes perfect for on the fire or in the grill. 17. Squidgy chocolate pear pudding This hot, gooey chocolate pudding, rich dark chocolate and canned pears is a perfect no-fuss dessert for dinner parties. It can be prepared ahead and frozen so that you can enjoy the evening stress-free. Just be sure not to overcook it – you want that molten centre. Who doesn't like chocolate? Find more rich chocolate pudding recipes. 18. Apple turnovers Apple and cinnamon are the ultimate autumnal pairings, and when tucked into a hand-held pie, they’re the perfect treat for Bonfire Night. These easy-to-transport turnovers are ideal for enjoying while watching the fireworks. If you'd rather savour them warm, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot homemade custard. 19. Slow cooker sticky toffee pudding Let our slow cooker sticky toffee pudding gently cook all day so it's ready to serve with ice cream in the evening. Great for feeding a crowd of up to eight, this fuss-free recipe requires 30 minutes of prep, making it an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert. Enjoy easy entertaining with more slow cooker dinner party recipes. 20. Bonfire Night cookies These brightly decorated cookies are perfect for getting kids excited for Bonfire Night. The best part? You’ll have plenty of leftovers to enjoy with a cup of tea throughout the week! Enjoyed these dinners? See more Bonfire Night recipes Bonfire Night drinks recipes Autumn recipes Bonfire Night dessert recipes Top Bonfire Night ideas Autumn vegetarian recipes What does your family like to eat on Bonfire Night? Leave a comment below...
Discover our best ever autumn vegan recipes. Our comforting dishes include soups, spiced curries and sweet bakes, such as apple crumble and pecan pie
Following a vegan diet shouldn't have to mean sacrificing taste, so when cooler evenings draw in, dive into a cosy supper full of warming spices and rich flavours. Our filling dinners and indulgent puddings are the best remedy to the autumn chill, and are sure to please. Our guide is full of classic family favourites, such as shepherd's pie, curry and hearty chilli. You'll also find ideas for easy midweek meals like traybakes and slow-cooker dishes. Plus, our puddings are the perfect after-dinner treat. These dishes make the most of seasonal autumn produce too, such as butternut squash, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apples and pears. See our autumn vegan recipes for all our top recipes, then try our vegan comfort food recipes, top vegan one-pots, vegan slow-cooker ideas, and our most popular vegan recipes. 1. Stuffed pumpkin This showstopping stuffed pumpkin makes the perfect centrepiece for an autumn dinner party. First, roast a medium-sized pumpkin, then stuff with rice, fennel, apple, pomegranate seeds and pecans. To make the most of your pumpkin, try roasting the seeds in tamari, maple syrup and chilli flakes. See our guide on how to roast pumpkin seeds for more ways to toast up a savoury snack. For more inspiration, see our vegan pumpkin recipes. 2. Satay sweet potato curry Tuck into this satay sweet potato curry for a hearty family dinner. This gluten-free curry comes in under 400 calories and contains two of your five-a-day with chunky sweet potato and fresh spinach. Aromatic ginger, coconut and lime perfectly balance the fiery Thai red curry paste. Serve with white rice and crunchy dry-roasted peanuts for a filling supper. See our vegan curry collection for more fragrant dishes. 3. Vegan pecan pie This delicious dessert has a sneaky secret ingredient to make the creamy filling – a block of silken tofu. Use shop-bought shortcrust pastry to make the easy crust, then top with pecans for a slice of vegan heaven. For more sweet treats, see our vegan desserts collection and then discover more uses for silken tofu. 4. Healthy pumpkin soup This healthy pumpkin soup comes together in just three simple steps and is sure to become a go-to autumn dinner. Finish with a sprinkling of toasted seeds and oats, seasoned with coriander and a hint of chilli flakes for a fragrant, crunchy topping that adds both texture and flavour. Discover our vegan soup recipes for more warming suppers. 5. Curried squash, lentil & coconut soup ​​​​​​As the autumn nights draw in, warm up with this curried squash, lentil & coconut soup. Seasonal butternut squash is spiced with curry powder and tumeric. This easy soup takes just 35 mins to prepare and serves six. Extra portions can be frozen for a quick meal solution on busier days. 6. Vegan chilli Our vegan chilli is the ultimate easy family dinner. Simply cook the veg in a frying pan for 10 mins, then chuck all the ingredients into a slow cooker and leave to cook on low for six hrs. Serve with rice or a jacket potato and top with sliced avocado, zesty lime and fresh coriander. For more easy dinners, see our guide to vegan slow cooker recipes. 7. Vegan apple crumble Bake this vegan apple crumble for a traditional, crowd-pleasing pudding. This classic recipe makes the most of tart Bramley apples while they're in season. Simply pack a baking dish with apple filling, top with crumble and bake for 35 mins. Generously dollop over vegan custard or cream to serve. See our vegan baking recipes for everything from cakes to brownies. 8. Vegan shepherd's pie Comfort food doesn't get much better than our vegan shepherd's pie. Plus, you can feel good about this family dinner, which is low in fat and calories. This top-rated dish is jam-packed with chunky veg such as porcini mushrooms, leeks, carrots and butternut squash. Make ahead and freeze for a go-to midweek meal. For more hearty mains, see our vegan comfort food recipes. 9. Sweet potato brownies These fudgy brownies make the most of the natural sweetness in seasonal sweet potatoes. With just eight simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that serves up to 16. Rich, chocolatey and perfectly paired with a cup of tea, they’re entirely vegan when made with dark chocolate and dairy-free cocoa powder – guilt-free baking never tasted so good. 10. Spiced aubergine bake Layer up slices of aubergine with a coconut milk and tomato sauce in this spiced aubergine bake. This easy traybake is full of sophisticated, bold flavours such as garlic, garam masala, chilli powder, cinnamon, cumin and coriander. This vegan bake also serves six, making it perfect for large families. See our vegan family recipes for more inspiration. 11. Vegan sausage casserole When it comes to autumnal comfort food, you can't beat a hearty sausage casserole. This one has nourishing cannellini beans for extra plant protein and is topped with crunchy garlic and parsley toasts. For more filling meals, see our vegan dinner recipes. 12. Sticky toffee pear pudding Our sticky toffee pear pudding is an elegant take on an indulgent dessert. Begin by poaching fresh pears in cinnamon, star anise and cloves, then bake a squidgy sponge with rich dates and linseeds for texture. Use up the remaining poaching liquid to make a sweet syrup to drizzle on top and serve with our creamy vegan vanilla ice cream. For our ultimate selection of vegan recipes, see our vegan collection. Enjoyed these recipes? See more vegan recipes... Best vegan curry recipes Top 5 vegan family recipes Easy vegan dinner recipes Quick vegan meal ideas Best vegan student recipes Which recipe will you try this autumn? Leave a comment below...