Discover our delicious and nutritious meal plan inspired by the Mediterranean, including dishes like puttanesca hake traybake and a meatball and butter bean stew
Looking to bring Mediterranean flavours to your table, but unsure where to start? We've come up with a 7-day meal plan inspired by the Mediterranean diet, so you can experiment with vibrant and wholesome dinners for a whole week. We've included a balanced mix of meat, vegetarian, vegan and fish dishes, ensuring variety and nutrition throughout the week, with plentiful vegetables, wholegrains, lean proteins and a rainbow of flavours. Most recipes are straightforward and suitable for busy evenings, while one is perfect for a leisurely weekend dinner, with any leftovers great for lunch the following day. See our Mediterranean recipes, healthy Mediterranean recipes and vegetarian Mediterranean recipes for more meal inspiration. Discover 10 of the healthiest Mediterranean recipes, including the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Plus, see our heart-healthy recipes and healthy fish recipes. There are no strict rules, but foods commonly found in a Mediterranean-style diet include: Olive oil, especially extra virgin oil Unsalted nuts and seeds, including walnuts, almonds and pine nuts Oily varieties of fish such as sardines and mackerel Seafood such as prawns, squid and mussels Poultry Chickpeas, lentils, peas and beans Wholegrain wheat, rice, oats and pasta Fruit including avocado, tomatoes, pomegranate and berries Greek yogurt Eggs Green leafy vegetables and courgettes Starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes and sweetcorn Herbs such as basil, oregano, dill and rosemary You can also visit our budget hub for budget-friendly meals, like budget salads, budget comfort food and budget 'superfood' swaps. Find more cost-effective meal plans over at our meal plan hub. 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. Monday: Mediterranean spelt-stuffed peppers Start the week with these vibrant peppers filled with nutty spelt, tomatoes, olives and feta, making for a colourful and satisfying vegetarian meal. This wholesome option is packed with Mediterranean flavours and is easy to prepare, providing a nourishing start to the week. You may also like to try our recipe for quinoa-stuffed peppers with roast tomatoes & feta, or try Joe Wicks' Mediterranean turkey-stuffed peppers for a meaty alternative. Tuesday: Puttanesca hake traybake This one-pan wonder sees flaky hake fillets baked with tomatoes, olives, capers and baby potatoes. The puttanesca-inspired sauce is robust and aromatic, complementing the delicate fish perfectly. It's quick to assemble, plus the oven does all the hard work for you, offering both convenience and a healthy dose of omega-3 from the fish. See our cod with olives & crispy pancetta for another option, or make this comforting caponata bake for a good vegetarian alternative. Wednesday: Spanish meatball & butter bean stew Hearty and comforting, this dish combines lean pork meatballs with creamy butter beans in a rich tomato sauce. The stew is gluten-free and includes an impressive 4 of your 5-a-day, making it filling and satisfying. Ready in under an hour, it's a nifty midweek meal that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean to your table. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, make our crispy grilled feta with saucy butter beans. Thursday: Vegan aubergine no-parmigiana Try this plant-based twist on a classic for Thursday's dinner. This vegan bake layers roasted aubergine with a rich tomato sauce and a creamy cannellini bean topping. Free from dairy and meat, it is high in fibre and low in calories and fat, offering a lighter yet deeply flavoursome alternative. This recipe is great for those seeking healthy yet comforting vegan meals. Browse our collection of vegetarian Italian-inspired recipes for more hearty Italian dinners. Friday: Chicken & tzatziki wraps Succulent pieces of chicken are paired with a simple salad and a refreshing homemade tzatziki, all wrapped in soft wholemeal wraps. This meal is budget-friendly and quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes to make. It's also family-friendly and ideal for a relaxed Friday evening in. Try our caponata bake for a meat-free option. Saturday: Sardine tomato pasta with gremolata Oily sardines are tossed with wholemeal pasta, tomatoes and a zesty gremolata, creating a dish containing omega-3 fatty acids. This pasta is not only ready in just 20 minutes, it's also budget-friendly and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for a healthy Mediterranean dinner. This recipe serves one but it can be doubled if you're cooking for more than one person. See our prawn & harissa spaghetti for another seafood pasta dish, or see our gnocchi traybake with lemony ricotta for a delicious veggie option. Sunday: Slow-cooker Spanish chicken Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked with chorizo, peppers, tomatoes and olives, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. This dish is ideal for a Sunday, as the slow cooker does most of the work, resulting in a deeply flavoured dish that is both comforting and effortless. Any leftovers can be frozen too. This lighter chicken cacciatore is another meaty option, or see our caponata with cheesy polenta for a meat-free alternative.
The spreadsheet strategist vs last minute cook: seven households share their very different approaches to meal planning
Take a peek inside the minds and kitchens of seven meal planners, from the long-term spreadsheet strategist to the last-minute minute cook and the solo chef
Getting dinner on the table each day is a universal challenge, but the ways we all tackle this task are as varied as our kitchens themselves. For some, meal planning is a finely tuned operation, complete with spreadsheets, colour-coded shopping lists and meticulous batch-cooking sessions. For others, it’s a spontaneous affair, driven by what’s left in the fridge, a last-minute dash to the shops or simply the mood of the moment. In recent years, there’s been a noticeable rise in hyper-organised meal planners — those who thrive on structure, prepping meals for the week ahead and rarely deviating from their plan. At the same time, many still embrace a freewheeling style, enjoying the creativity that comes with cooking on the fly or using up whatever’s to hand. Whether you’re feeding a large family, cooking for one or juggling dietary requirements, how you plan, shop and cook is deeply personal. We've stepped inside seven different households to discover their unique approaches to meal planning. From the spreadsheet devotee to the batch-freezing fan, these mini-portraits show there’s no single ‘right’ way — just the one that works for you. The spreadsheet strategist "I’m pretty pleased with my system. It sounds a bit full-on but it works well." Fiona, household of four. I am a serious spreadsheet planner. I’ve been doing this for around 10 years. My friends and family mock me for it, but I find it’s the best way to tackle a monotonous task. I have two spreadsheets on the go(!), one called stock check – before I do the shop I check the cupboards for all our basics like rice, pasta, cereal – then I have another called ‘winner dinners’ – anything we all like goes on there, divided into categories of meat, fish, veggie. I’m constantly adding to it and I try and make a few new recipes every week. On Sunday morning, I make a list of dinners for the week ahead, picking from my spreadsheet list. I usually do two or three meat-based dinners, one fish, and the rest veggie. I try and do a good mix for health, budget and eco reasons. I don’t feel great if I eat too much meat, and it’s so expensive. I shop and cook for my family’s meals – two adults and two children aged three and five. Like a lot of young children, they are pretty fussy, so I’ll pick out any veg they really hate or tell them the odd lie like smoked tofu is sausage, as I refuse to cook two separate dinners and I don’t want them to live on pesto pasta, as much as they’d like to. In an ideal world, I’d shop more at fishmongers, butchers and farm shops – before I had kids I did that a lot more, but due to the rising cost of living, I now do it all in a big online supermarket shop as it’s cheaper. But I do only buy free-range meat, eggs and dairy, or organic if we can afford it that week. I’m pretty pleased with my system. It sounds a bit full-on, but it works well, and I find meal planning and doing one big shop works out so much cheaper. Plus it means we often have leftovers for lunch. What we ate for dinner this week: Monday: butter paneer curry with broccoli Tuesday: slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew Wednesday: garlic and herb cod kiev traybake Thursday: veggie sausage and lentil stew Friday: lamb kebabs, flatbread and salad Saturday: beef and vegetable pie with greens Sunday: creamy pumpkin pasta The last-minute cook "I spend half my life traipsing back and forth from the supermarket to pick up ingredients." Issie, household of two. I would love nothing more than to be a meal planner. I see videos of people filling fridges with individual portions of meals and enjoying the fruits of their labour all week long. I am no such cook. I do everything last-minute, depending on what level of health or indulgence I need. This means I spend half my life traipsing back and forth from the supermarket to pick up ingredients. While this does mean I eat some delicious meals during the week (tofu, kimchi and brown rice bowls are a current favourite), it also means I eat strange things to use up leftovers. Recently, I had the ends of a few bags of pasta with fried brussels sprouts and anchovies, and on another occasion, a few beans mixed through wilting rocket with parmesan. Not exactly exciting! I still aspire to meal prep. In fact, it’s one of my goals for 2026. Let’s just see if it happens! The Sunday batch cook "I don’t mind my fridge being empty, but an empty freezer does make me very worried!" Anna, household of three. I like to take the bulk buying approach. I buy 16kg sacks of flour, 10kg bags of potatoes and 5kg packs of pasta at a time. I would buy more, my only limitation being where to store the sacks! I do one huge shop per month which includes all my protein and storecupboard essentials. My freezer is my best friend, and I spend most of a Sunday per month filling it up with stews, curries, ragus, pies, bread and even slices of cake or bakes to have ready on hand. I don’t mind my fridge being empty, but an empty freezer does make me very worried! My pre-planning and freezer fillers makes midweek meals a doddle. It saves me time as if I’m cooking something once, I might as well cook a few portions of it. Most weekends my slow cooker is bubbling away with something to fill my freezer with, and this relieves the pressure midweek when I come home from work and need food ready in minutes. Fresh produce I often buy same day, on my way home from work, mostly looking for reduced items to save some money. Saying all that I do have a slightly chaotic approach to meal planning, despite a freezer full of meals. I’m very thankful for the defrost setting on the microwave as I very often forget to pull things out the freezer before the meal itself! The phone notes planner "Some people think they’d change their mind about what they’d cook if they meal planned, but I look forward to what I’ve chosen." Lucy, household of two. I live with my boyfriend and I do all the meal planning for our household of two. I’ve always meal planned since I moved out of home and was cooking for one for the first time – for about five years now. I love cooking and trying new recipes, but I’m also indecisive and know that if I got home after work without anything planned, I’d just eat a lot of two-minute tortellini and fish fingers! My process sounds elaborate to some people but it really works for me. I have a note on my phone that lists out lunch and dinner every day. I usually plan the upcoming week on a Friday afternoon or Saturday morning. I save recipes in all sorts of places on my phone: Instagram, photos from magazines, the Good Food app, or notes of recipes I’ve seen in my cookbooks. I browse through all of these to choose recipes for the week – I usually do a mixture of new recipes I haven’t tried, along with some tried-and-tested favourites. There’s always space for pesto pasta after a busy day! I also have a list of what’s in my freezer and roughly what’s in my storecupboard, which can help inspire me with what to choose, and saves me buying double. I plot these into each day, trying to make sure there is a good variety of cuisines, ingredients and flavours across the week. Health isn’t my main motivation – I’m a comfort food cook – but I like to make sure I’m getting enough different veg. I put longer recipes on the weekends when I want to spend time in the kitchen and quick ones for midweek days after the office. Then I use this to make a shopping list and do one big weekly shop at the weekend. Some people think they’d change their mind about what they’d cook if they meal planned, but I look forward to what I’ve chosen and enjoy having to only think about it once at the weekend, and not do any more planning or food shopping the rest of the time. I also think it’s so much cheaper than doing top-up shops all week and helps limit food waste because you can plan how to use up everything you buy. The "what do you fancy?” cook "I miss cooking for a gang, but I’m adapting: without three human dustbins I portion smarter." Keith, household of two empty nesters. Meal planning in our house has changed with the seasons of family life. When our three kids were small I was a work-from-home house-dad, on pick-up duty and feeding three mouths. I kept a rolling online supermarket list of their “greatest hits” and shopped by weekly delivery. Good Food magazine was my guide: I loved its “make a base, turn it into three meals” approach. A batch of mince became bolognese, chilli and cottage pie; a chicken did a roast, sandwiches and stock. After school they were ravenous, and with my wife out at work we saved dinners for the weekend — burgers or fajitas on Saturday, a roast on Sunday. The kids were never fussy, so planning was simple, and each month I’d test a new dish. Indian curries were instant keepers; fiery Thai ones took a few years. When they hit their teens and I went back full-time, weekends turned into batch-cook central. I’d portion favourites into foil trays so they could heat them up after school. I also learned to cook double for my wife and me, because the teens always wanted a bite of whatever we ate. Now we’re empty nesters. We do a fortnightly delivery for essentials, spend far less, and dinner is more “what do you fancy?” than scheduled. I miss cooking for a gang, but I’m adapting, especially on waste: without three human dustbins I portion smarter — breaking a chicken into parts and giving each piece a job before it hits the fridge. The solo chef "You'll never see me doing a big weekly shop – my receipt rarely goes above £30." Helen, household of one. I live with two housemates, but I meal plan and cook vegetarian meals for myself. This process starts at the weekend, when I'll go to a discount supermarket and buy ingredients for one recipe. This will most likely be something I've seen on a website, magazine or social media. I'll also stock up on staples like coffee, fresh fruit and bread. This normally comes to approximately £20. I'll cook this recipe either on the weekend or Monday night, and I'll make around three or four portions. I'll then stretch these portions across the week. When I've eaten it all, I'll raid my cupboards/freezer/fridge and make an odds-and-ends dinner, dashing to my local shop if I need to bulk it up with veg, protein or legumes. I'm lucky that there is a test kitchen at work, meaning I'll often take home amazing food for dinner or lunch the following day. Lunches otherwise tend to be something on rye bread, for example smashed peas, feta, kimchi and lime juice. I’ll also go the shops on the day for any reduced bits. I love a yellow sticker! If my boyfriend's visiting on the weekend, we'll think about what we fancy and cook it. He protests that I have no food in the house, but when it’s just me to cater for, I can nip out to my local shop on a whim (although it is expensive). You'll never see me do a big weekly shop – my receipt rarely goes above £30 – I’d find that food would go to waste if I did, plus I don't have a car! My boyfriend and I plan on moving in this year. I know that my meal planning routine will change quite drastically and I'll end up spending more, but it'll be nice to split cooking duties! The hybrid approach "This system works for us right now, but I do wish I had a bigger freezer so I could utilise it more often." Sarah, household of two. I cook for just myself and my husband, and we both work from home three days a week. I take a hybrid approach to meal planning: I improvise based on what I already have, but also try to think a couple of days ahead. I’ve tried stricter meal planning, but I usually only do one or two days at a time. We don’t have a car and shop at discount supermarkets (like Lidl) that don’t deliver, so I can only carry so much home at once! We also have a very small freezer, so I don’t batch-cook due to space, but do try to be budget-conscious. I make use of leftovers in the fridge and will often buy one big protein item that can be used across several days to save money. For example, a whole chicken could make us three dinners: as a roast, then in wraps or sandwiches, then in a curry. I tend to plan those longer cooks, like roasting, on a WFH/weekend day, as I have much less time when I’m working in the office. Having leftovers ready to use saves a lot of time and effort when I’m getting home late. This system works for us right now, but I do wish I had a bigger freezer so I could utilise it more often. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2025/12/GettyImages-1409709720-b817362.jpg" width="8256" height="5504" alt="Young woman carrying a yellow reusable shopping bag, shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables at supermarket in the city" title="Rear view of young Asian woman carrying a yellow reusable shopping bag, shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables at supermarket in the city. Responsible shopping, zero waste, sustainable lifestyle concept" /> More meal planning inspiration I’m a nutritionist and this is how I meal prep for the week ahead No-cook meal plan Claire Thomson's back-to-school meal plan 10 tips to make meal prep easier I'm a single mum of three – here's how I shop cheaply at a luxury supermarket
‘I had a night out halfway through’ – six people share their honest Dry January experiences
Can abstaining from alcohol for one month create any real impact on your health and wellbeing? Six people who completed Dry January share their reflections
Alcohol Change UK’s ‘Dry January’ programme continues to grow in participation – research from the charity suggests that nearly one in three (32%) British adults — approximately 17.5 million people — planned to abstain from alcohol in January 2026, making it one of the largest, if not the largest, to date. This increase mirrors a longer-term shift in drinking habits. Analysis of YouGov data revealed that, as a whole, Great Britain saw the amount of people who don’t drink alcohol increase by 6% between 2019 and 2025, moving from 21% to 27%. Data revealed that one particular group was leading the change in attitudes: those aged between 18 and 24 saw a huge 16% increase in respondents who don’t drink alcohol. But can a short-term challenge such as Dry January really reset your relationship with alcohol? Or do old habits creep back once the challenge ends? We've gathered accounts from six people who took part this year, or the previous year, to see how they found the experience. They've openly shared the ups and downs, and offer advice for anyone thinking about hitting pause on drinking. Everyone's journey is different, so what works for one person might not work for another, but there are plenty of insightful observations here (as well as a few alcohol-free drinks to try along the way). "I’m on my seventh Dry January. Nothing would make me drink in January – it’s like a magic ‘off switch’” Back in 2019 we’d had a full-on Christmas and New Year with lots of travelling and celebrating with different friends and family and by New Year's Day I was feeling worn out. I saw it as a bit of a fun challenge and wasn’t sure I would actually stick to it. It was a bit of a revelation to be honest – the first week was HARD but I found a random Facebook group (that I’m still part of) and there were lots of people on there sharing stories and tips. I used to check in every day and it kind of encouraged me to keep going. I never posted anything but there was always someone having the same physical or mental challenges, so it was a great support. I felt a big sense of achievement once I’d completed it. Overall, I probably do drink less now, but I think the main takeaway is self-awareness. It gives you a good sense of your habits and your triggers (social events/occasions etc). Also, it arms you with some tools for negotiating those triggers – once you’ve done a work social event or a big celebration dry, you realise it’s not that hard! Every year I do it, it becomes easier and easier. I don’t check in with FB much or use my Try Dry app (which I used to religiously check off days). I actually look forward to it and I absolutely know that nothing would make me drink in January – it’s like a magic ‘off switch’. It makes such an impact on my physical and mental health, to the point where halfway through I start wondering whether I’ll go back (spoiler – I always do). My sleep improves massively and though I do sometimes feel a bit groggy in the morning, it disappears very quickly. I also wake up naturally rather than waiting for the alarm. I’m much calmer and when something stressful happens I feel a lot more able to cope with it. Exercise is so much easier and I make all the morning classes I usually dodge because I’m too tired. And the first coffee of the day tastes like nectar – I even go to sleep dreaming about how good my morning coffee is going to be. I’ve happily gone a week or two into February but because I’m not making that same commitment I don’t stress about it. I don’t plan to drink on 1 February as I don’t miss it. I find that people are very accommodating and understanding when I tell them I’m doing Dry January. Saying that, I do avoid occasions centred around drinking for the month. I love the pub and can happily go and have a pint of Guinness 0% but if everyone else is drinking there’s a limit to how long I’ll stay. I am the most annoying person I know trying to get everyone to do it with me so they can see the benefits! My husband started doing it three years ago and now he looks forward to it. And one of my friends who I encouraged last year kept going and has now done over a year. If you can do it with a group, another person or join a social media group, it really helps to motivate you to keep going. Download the Try Dry app or similar so you can tick off progress – it’s very satisfying. Fill your fridge with nice soft and alcohol-free drinks (I love Infinite Session IPA and Guinness 0%) – sometimes when you think you have a craving, you are just thirsty. And if you do have a craving try to distract yourself – they only last a few minutes. Spend the month making lovely food for yourself so you have something to look forward to – you’ll find once you’ve eaten that cravings lessen. I love to make a cake to last the week and have that in the evenings with sleepy tea as a treat instead of wine. Pamper yourself – baths, PJs, early nights etc. Most importantly if you slip up just get back on the wagon and add a day on the end – it still counts! "I’ve not been super strict – allowing yourself nuance is key, otherwise it feels like a total punishment" Throughout the last few years, I’ve had several stints of being sober that have lasted a few months. However, these have always coincided with something negative; a breakup, a bad mental health episode, grieving etc. Stopping drinking at these moments has felt like a necessary step to look after myself. However, this time around I’m tying it something positive and exciting – I’ve recently launched my career as a freelance photographer. As well as wanting to save money (which stopping drinking always does), I’ve really wanted to save energy and be calm, well rested and present while taking this exciting new step. Dry January felt like a good opportunity for this. I’ve enjoyed it so much I’ve turned Dry January into Sober Spring. I feel my relationship with alcohol has definitely changed. I don’t want to stop drinking entirely but I would like to hugely curb the amount I drink. We have such a pub culture in London (which I love) but often that ends up with having two, three, four pints on a weekday which is expensive, tiring and often feels unnecessary. It’s been nice to keep socialising but just cutting the booze. I’m feeling really energised and motivated! I’ve not been super strict about it (I had drinks when I left my office job and I drank on my friend’s hen do and I will also drink at her wedding next month). I think allowing yourself nuance is key otherwise it feels like a total punishment and won’t allow creating new, healthier habits with drinking. It also helps you to be more mindful and enjoy drinks when you do have them. My advice to anyone would be to definitely give it a go. I haven’t felt like my social life has been affected at all – I’ve still been to lots of parties and the pub plenty of times this month. However, I’d definitely suggest mentioning to people before meeting them that you aren’t drinking – it helps to keep you accountable. It also means that they’re not planning to share a bottle of wine with you and disappointed when you get a non-alcoholic beer! "I used the Dry January app to keep a streak going and ended up going further until I reached 1 year and 3 months" I mostly drank on nights out or partying rather than moderately and felt I spent a lot of my weekends hungover or suffering with 'hangxiety'. It felt like a cycle each week that was inevitable: start the week in a good mood and end in a bad one, and I was tired of feeling that way. I thought Dry January would be a chance to pause and step back without missing out as other people were doing it, too. It proved successful: I used the Dry January app to keep a streak going and ended up going further with it until I reached one year and three months! I became a much happier, more comfortable person. However, I did hit my limit with it – I wanted to enjoy alcohol again and and I felt I was missing out on some moments with my friends. I drink moderately now and very rarely push it to the level where I’d get hangxiety the next day. At the beginning I went overboard with non-drinking plans, for example pottery, jewellery-making etc., but I found that expensive, unsustainable and unnecessary. The point is to live your life as before but without drinking and to be comfortable socialising without it. When I looked at my life, most plans were not oriented around drinking, so there is no reason to drastically change your habits or hobbies. It made a huge impact on my mental health – I finally had relief from the anxiety cycle that had dominated my early twenties and was able to distinguish between real worries and false worries for the first time. It felt like freedom! I would 100 per cent recommend it. Even if you don’t complete the month, you will get something out of it. I did notice, however, that not everyone was supportive – particularly some family members. I think they felt my not drinking was a comment on their drinking. I found certain aspects harder than others – I struggled to stay out past 11pm! My social battery would expire much quicker than before. If you're thinking of doing it next year, I'd say go for it – but make sure you fill your January with other fun, positive things. It’s a long month as it is. "You learn so much about your relationship with it, you realise how ingrained it is in the culture" My partner had a session with a PT and they recommended having a six-week break from alcohol. I’d been looking for an excuse to take a break, so I figured I’d join her. Plus, I’m training for a marathon in April and running 15 miles with a hangover definitely makes you want to take a break. So far so good. I haven’t had a drink since Christmas Day. I think I’m feeling happier, possibly a combination of no alcohol, more exercise and vitamin D. Alcohol-free alternatives seem overpriced. My go-to is water. I plan on continuing to forgo the booze. If I can make it to April 19, that’d be awesome. I recommend it because you learn so much about your relationship with it, you realise how ingrained it is in the culture. Is there a single event in your life that doesn’t in some way revolve around alcohol? Every single social engagement with friends, family, co-workers. The challenge is to still get the social time without alcohol, so I’ve suggested meeting for dinner instead of drinks and making more phone calls, as there's plenty of time for a phone call on all my long runs. What’s annoying is how many times people will ask if you want a drink. The first time is fine, but to keep asking every five minutes is annoying, because you feel every time that you have to explain yourself. What’s even tougher to explain, though, is having an alcohol break for no reason or just not fancying it that day. At least Dry January or training for a marathon gives a reason people can understand. Otherwise, they just think don’t want to drink with them because you dislike them. People will straight up get offended if you don’t let them buy you a drink. Wild. "It was a positive experience, bar one blip in the middle of the month..." Dry January for me was mostly successful, bar one blip in the middle of the month where I went to a gig and this turned into a night out (see more below)… but that’s still a 96 per cent success rate! I’ve never been a particularly big drinker. For example I won’t sit at home with a glass of wine or beer, so I don’t feel like I have a negative relationship with alcohol. I mostly drink in social situations so I wanted to challenge myself to see if I could change that reflex behaviour to order a pint whenever meeting friends in a pub. I don’t think people should feel guilty about drinking if they don’t have a negative relationship with alcohol; I mostly chose to do it as a challenge to myself to see if I could save money – plus it was a great feeling waking up fresh at the weekend. At the same time, there were a few times when I simply slept badly and woke up feeling rubbish, so don’t necessarily expect to feel amazing the whole month. Nevertheless, it was a positive experience although I don’t feel like I necessarily have to do it again. The hardest part was the start, once you hit the halfway mark it’s so much easier to stick to as you know you don’t have many days left. I would definitely recommend planning in advance – it’s really helpful to mention to friends when making plans with them. It helped hold me accountable and it also meant that I wasn’t making plans to solely go to the pub as I thought that might be too much temptation, especially at the start. It was a good opportunity to try different activities that don’t involve alcohol for a month. Saying that, almost exactly mid-way through the month, a friend offered me a last-minute gig ticket on a Friday night. Although earlier in the month I’d gone to a gig on a Tuesday and happily sipped on an alcohol-free beer, there was something about going out at the weekend that made the temptation too much to resist – and after one beer turned to two (and more) it turned into a full night out. However I woke up the next day with a renewed sense of determination to complete the month. "During Dry January I usually sleep better and feel less anxious, but I didn’t feel as many benefits this year" I participate in Dry January every year to have a break from booze and because it’s a quiet time of year anyway. Personally I find it extremely effective, although I do not find it particularly hard anymore given I’ve done it every year and lots of my friends do it too. Over the years of doing Dry January, I naturally drink less. Although I still indulge in booze, particularly on holidays and during Christmas, I'm now drinking perhaps less overall than I would have. But there are still blow outs! During Dry January, I usually sleep better and feel less anxious, but I didn’t feel as many benefits this year. Perhaps because I am drinking less overall now. I have plans to continue it through to February, too, although I am breaking it for one night out! I find things like nights out and drink-heavy events harder to do. Although I do need to make more use of non-alcoholic beer in pubs. In terms of whether it's the 'best' approach to limiting alcohol intake, I think it depends – it works for me because I don’t drink loads in the first place. I do notice a little bit of social stigma when I'm not drinking, but it doesn’t really bother me. I'd find that it would be much harder to do in the rest of the year, particularly in the summer. My advice to anyone thinking of doing it next year: non-alcoholic alternatives really can help fill the hole. Check out the Drinkaware website for online resources, free tools, facts and advice. It also has information and contact details for alcohol support services. Enjoyed this? Check out more... Non-alcoholic drink ideas The healthiest alcoholic drinks What I discovered when I gave up drinking for a month Good Food Podcast – Dr Alex George on navigating mental fitness, healthy living and sobriety How to do Christmas without alcohol
50 Friday night dinner ideas to kickstart the weekend
Kick-start the weekend with our fun Friday night dinner ideas, from curries and sharing boards, to fakeaway treats and pasta bakes
Good Food deserves great wine, so we've partnered with Laithwaites Wine to help you discover the perfect wine and food pairings. Enjoy selected wines delivered straight to your door from Laithwaites, that will bring out the best in your lovingly prepared meals, find your perfect match here. Struggling for Friday night dinner inspiration? We've got all your needs covered, with recipes that rival that of any takeaway. Take inspiration from Friday night traditions such as Jewish Friday night shabbat and Swedish 'cosy Fridays', when the meal is a time to sit down and eat together, often with several generations of family. Alternatively, we have plenty of fun Friday night dinner ideas for two, including impressive steak dishes and special seafood pasta. If you're looking to pull out all the stops, we've gathered a whole host of dishes with wow-factor to herald in the weekend – think cheese fondue, truffled mac 'n' cheese and even a paneer-filled curry pie. Alternatively, if it was a long week and you have little energy, we've included quick and easy dinners that still feel like a treat. These include our speedy sausage stroganoff (ready in 20 minutes), fuss-free sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot and microwave cheat's paella for a shortcut version of the classic. For more Friday night ideas, tuck into our hit-list of the best comfort food recipes, fakeaway meals and sharing ideas. Add more recipes to your rotation with our top dinners for when you don’t know what to cook. 50 easy Friday night dinners 1. Slow cooker beef tacos Let your slow cooker do the hard work with these melt-in-the-mouth beef tacos – perfect for a relaxed Friday night with the family. Beef brisket is gently cooked with smoky spices until it’s fall-apart tender, then shredded and piled into soft tortillas. Top with creamy guacamole, hot sauce, fresh coriander and tomato salsa. Find more recipes for fuss-free entertaining and family feasts in our slow cooker dinner party recipes. 2. Hot honey crispy chicken burgers with blue cheese slaw Spice up burger night with these crispy chicken fillets, drizzled with hot honey and served in soft buns with a tangy blue cheese slaw. The chicken is coated in a crunchy panko crumb, while the slaw adds freshness and bite. This recipe serves up to six and is perfect for a crowd-pleasing Friday fakeaway. Check out more crispy chicken burgers. 3. Marry me gnocchi This quick, comforting gnocchi dish is bound to impress, making it perfect for date night or a special Friday treat. Soft gnocchi is cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomato purée and parmesan, then finished with garlic, a hint of chilli and thyme. The sauce is rich and luscious, coating each gnocchi for a an indulgent mouthful. Ready in just under 40 minutes, it serves three and delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Discover our best-ever gnocchi recipes for more inspiration. 4. Chicken satay curry This easy chicken satay curry is a family-friendly twist on the classic, bringing together chicken thighs in a creamy, nutty sauce. The curry is flavoured with coconut milk, ginger, garlic and a hint of sriracha for gentle warmth. Serve with fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s both comforting, high in protein and packed with flavour. Discover more of our easy chicken curry recipes. 5. Drunken noodles (pad kee mao) Spice up your Friday with this Thai-inspired noodle stir-fry, known for its bold, punchy flavours. Rice noodles are tossed with sirloin steak, broccoli, chillies, soy and oyster sauce, finished a handful of fresh Thai basil for a fragrant finish. The dish is quick to prepare – on the table in under 30 minutes – and delivers a delicious balance of heat, savoury depth and aromatic herbs. Cook more noodle dinners with our best-ever rice noodles collection. 6. Marry me chicken meatball orzo This creamy orzo dish features juicy chicken meatballs simmered in a sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, chilli and parmesan. The orzo cooks in the same pan, soaking up all the flavours for a rich, comforting finish. This recipe is an instant crowd-pleaser that serves up to five and works beautifully for a cosy Friday night supper. See our recipe for marry me chicken for another instant favourite. 7. Lasagne jackets Give your jacket potatoes a Friday night makeover with this lasagne-inspired twist. Fluffy baked potatoes are filled with a rich beef ragu, then topped with a creamy béchamel and plenty of melted cheese. The result is a cheesy, hearty dinner that combines two family favourites. Serve at a casual gathering or a fun family meal. We have plenty more comforting lasagne recipes. 8. Prawn toast burgers A playful twist on the takeaway classic, these burgers feature a juicy prawn mixture coated in sesame seeds and fried until golden, then loaded with crunchy slaw and a drizzle of punchy sriracha or sweet chilli sauce. The result is a satisfying mix of textures and flavours, ideal for a fun Friday night treat for two. Take a look at more of our fish burger recipes. 9. Whole cauliflower tikka masala with cheesy naans Make vegetables the star with this showstopping roasted cauliflower, marinated in tikka spices and roasted until golden. It’s served with homemade cheesy naans, perfect for tearing and dipping. This vegetarian centrepiece serves four-six so is ideal for sharing – great for a Friday night feast with friends or family. Find more recipes like this in our vegetarian dinner party recipes. 10. Carbonara butter beans For a fun new take on a classic, try this creamy carbonara made with butter beans instead of pasta. The beans are cooked with guanciale and parmesan for a silky, savoury sauce, finished with plenty of black pepper. It’s quick, nutritious and filling, serving up to three – perfect for a satisfying Friday supper in under 20 minutes. If you like the look of this, see our 10 twists on classic carbonara. 11. Peanut butter pork skewers with crunchy zingy slaw Fire up the grill for these flavour-packed pork skewers, marinated in a nutty peanut, soy and lime dressing. The pork is caramelised and juicy, served alongside a crunchy, vibrant slaw dressed with more lime and a touch of honey. This recipe serves four and can be served with brown rice, flatbreads or noodles for something more substantial. See our mouthwatering BBQ skewer recipes for more ideas. 12. One-pan nachos with black beans If you're after something casual, we suggest a colourful tray of nachos to share, with layers of black beans, salsa, avocado and melted cheese. It's a fun and fuss-free dish to start the weekend, and everyone will enjoy digging in. See more fun nacho recipe inspiration in our nachos collection. 13. Taco soup Bring all the fun of taco night to your table in soup form with this colourful, hearty bowl. Beef mince is simmered with tomatoes, beans, sweetcorn, warming spices and oregano, resulting in a comforting, mildly spicy broth that's packed with texture and flavour. Serve with a dollop of soured cream, grated cheese, avocado and tortilla chips for a playful, customisable dinner. We have plenty more exciting taco recipes and hearty soups to enjoy. 14. Speedy sausage stroganoff tagliatelle Requiring just 5 minutes to prepare, our budget-friendly sausage stroganoff tagliatelle ticks all the boxes for a quick, low-cost and satisfying Friday night dinner. You could even substitute pork sausages for vegetarian to make it meat-free. Discover plenty more stroganoff recipes for more ideas. 15. Vegetarian enchiladas We're all for a comforting, cheesy dish to see in the weekend. These easy veggie enchiladas are seasoned chilli powder and filled with nutritious ingredients, such as carrots, tomatoes and pulses. Banish dinner fatigue Download the Good Food app and you’ll never run out of ideas – we serve up brand-new recipes and curated meal plans every week. Get 3 months for 99p 16. Creamy cashew tomato potato curry with easy homemade naans This vegetarian curry brings together tender potatoes in a creamy tomato sauce, finished with hot cashews, curry leaves and flavoured oil. The homemade naans are soft and pillowy, perfect for scooping up the rich curry. Full of warming spices and satisfying textures, this dish makes a comforting meat-free dinner. See our most popular curries for more recipes to add to your repertoire. 17. Next level steak frites Elevate your Friday night with this classic French bistro dish. Juicy, perfectly cooked steak is served with golden frites and a rich, green peppercorn sauce. Find out how to achieve the ideal sear on your steak and how to make chips that are crisp on the outside and fluffy within. Serve for two for an impressive date night or special treat. Browse through our French-inspired recipes for more classic dishes. 18. Classic cheese fondue If you're hosting friends for the evening, go for the ultimate sharing dish: classic cheese fondue. Enjoy with crusty bread, boiled potatoes, crudités and pickles. See more feed-a-crowd dishes, including mains, sharing snacks and showstopping bakes. 19. Chicken, corn & miso risotto Give risotto a twist with this umami-packed version, combining tender chicken thigh fillets, sweetcorn and white miso for depth of flavour. The rice is cooked until creamy, then finished with miso, butter, parmesan and lemon juice. This comforting, high-flavour dish serves two and makes a soothing end to the working week. Add more exciting risotto recipes to your repertoire. 20. Thai green chicken curry Ditch the takeaway menu and impress friends and family by cooking a fragrant and creamy Thai curry. Easy and quick to make, it's perfect for entertaining without much effort required. For more curry inspiration, browse our Thai green curry recipes and Thai red curry recipes. 21. Easy vegan tacos These tasty vegan tacos – layered with smoky, sweet salsa made with roasted kiwi, tomato, garlic, coriander, bouillon and paprika, and topped with crunchy cabbage and roasted veg – offer something a little different to your standard dinners. The kiwi in the salsa provides a moreish, fruity element. Catering for vegans? Check out our round-up of vibrant vegan recipes that are designed to impress. 22. Smash burgers For burgers with a difference, try using this method – ‘smashing’ the burger patties creates the ultimate crust. Serve the burgers in the buns of your choice with lettuce, gherkins, cheese and mayonnaise, ketchup or America mustard. Find more burger ideas with our beef burger recipes, chicken burger recipes and vegetarian burger recipes. 23. Steak pasta Treat yourself to this indulgent pasta, featuring tender strips of rump steak tossed with tagliatelle in a creamy sauce. Finished with chives and a sprinkle of parmesan, the dish is both luxurious and comforting. It’s easy to prepare and ready in 50 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a special Friday night in for two. Discover more satisfying rump steak recipes. 24. Meze-style sharing board Share this colourful, meze-style grazing board with friends. This veggie version features cauliflower & feta fritters, carrot & tahini salad and falafel. Discover more Friday night grazing board ideas, perfect for relaxed entertaining. 25. Salami & chilli calzones These hand-held calzones are stuffed with salami, mozzarella, basil and chilli, then baked until golden and oozing. The dough is crisp on the outside and soft within, with a warming, spicy filling. This recipe makes six calzones – great for sharing or serving as part of a relaxed Friday night spread. See our best calzone recipes for more ideas. 26. Chorizo & purple sprouting broccoli gnocchi traybake Enjoy a fuss-free traybake for a fast fix of comfort food. Gnocchi, chorizo and purple sprouting broccoli are roasted together with cherry tomatoes and garlic until crisp and golden. The chorizo infuses the dish with smoky, savoury notes, while the broccoli adds bite. This all-in-one meal serves up to four and is perfect for busy nights when you want maximum flavour with minimal washing up. Discover more delicious chorizo recipes in our recipe collection. 27. Teriyaki salmon Ready in just 20 minutes, this salmon dish makes a perfect Friday night dinner for two, with salmon fillets dressed in a punchy sauce of sweet chilli, honey, sesame oil, mirin and soy. Serve with sesame pak choi for a speedy and satisfying meal. For more fish suppers, check out our comprehensive salmon recipe collection, including poached, smoked, pan-fried, roasted or grilled options. 28. Caponata pasta Short on time? Make dinner in a flash with our easy vegetarian caponata pasta, ready in just 20 minutes. It's ideal if you're after a simple, budget-friendly dish, and it provides three of your five-a-day. For more speedy meal ideas, browse our under 20-minute meals. 29. Sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot Friday nights are all about treating yourself, and this gnocchi one-pot with crunchy kale feels comforting and restorative in equal measure. Flavoured with chilli flakes and parmesan, it's a delicious way to welcome the weekend. A comforting one-pot is a great idea if you're all for less washing-up on Friday nights. 30. Gnocchi fish pie A fun riff on a classic, this has 'Friday' written all over it. This pie replaces mash with gnocchi for next-level comfort. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes to make, so it's perfect for a family night in. For a classic fish pie, see our collection of fish pie recipes. 31. Spicy black bean & halloumi burgers These vegetarian burgers pack a flavour punch, starring spiced black beans, salty halloumi and pickled onions. Served in toasted burger buns with a handful of rocket lettuce and mayo and served with chips, they’re satisfying and hearty – perfect for a meat-free Friday night treat. Big halloumi fan? Take a look at our top 10 fried halloumi recipes. 32. Fuss-free family pizza Bring the pizzeria home with this easy recipe, perfect for getting the whole family involved. Use a no-yeast pizza dough, then top with a homemade tomato sauce, mozzarella and your favourite toppings. Bake until bubbling and golden for a chewy base and gooey cheese topping. This recipe serves four and is ideal for a relaxed, interactive Friday night meal. Tuck into more flavour-packed pizza recipes. 33. Chorizo & pea risotto Using simple storecupboard and freezer ingredients, our pea and crispy chorizo risotto is perfect if you're seeking comfort but don't quite have the energy. It's easy to assemble and can be on the table in just 35 minutes. Try our pea risotto for a meat-free version, or see more of our best-ever risotto recipes. 34. Salt & pepper tofu Tofu gets a tongue-tingling kick and spicy warmth thanks to a mix of Sichuan and black peppercorns. Serve over crunchy vegetables, then scatter over coriander for a flavour-packed vegan dish. Tofu isn't everyone's favourite, but it can be transformed into something delicious if you use the right ingredients. Try this tofu steaks with chips which is delicious and high- in protein. See our collection of tofu recipes that change the game. 35. Easy butter chicken Your go-to Friday night curry is transformed into a lighter treat with this easy butter chicken. It's high in protein and low in calories, plus you can marinate the meat the day before, leaving you with more time. With 220+ ratings, it's proved to be a big hit with home cooks. Find more of our easy family curry recipes. 36. Paneer korma Two popular Indian dishes combine in this creamy paneer korma, packed with the heady flavours of ginger and cardamom. Served with your choice of rice and naans, that's your Friday nights plans sorted. We've got plenty more vegetarian curries for you to discover – check out our best vegetarian curry and vegan curry recipes. 37. Microwave cheat's paella Our shortcut version of a classic paella swaps the oven for the microwave, helping you save energy. Flavoured with paprika and lemon juice and filled with chicken and chorizo, it delivers on some of those traditional Spanish flavours. The recipe is based on a 750W microwave. Find more of our microwavable meals for busy nights. 38. Birria tacos These Mexican-inspired beef birria tacos are just the ticket for more adventurous cooks. A slow-cooked meat dish with chillies, tomato, onion and spices, these tacos require a little effort, but guarantee a flavourful meal. For a full-blown Mexican-inspired feast, tuck into our easy Mexican, vegetarian Mexican and healthy Mexican dishes. 39. Salt & pepper chips These are no ordinary chips. Floury potatoes are cut into wedges or chips, then cooked and mixed with stir-fried peppers, garlic and chilli. Sprinkle over a punchy mixture of Chinese five-spice powder, sugar, salt, chilli flakes and peppercorns to finish. This recipe serves up to four as a side or snack – perfect to get you in the mood for the weekend. Try more twists on everyone's favourite comfort foods with our best chip recipes, including crispy halloumi fries. 40. One-pot paneer curry pie Everyone's favourite vegetarian curry is transformed into a pie, delivering comfort in spades. Filled with a makhani-style filling and topped with a crisp puff pastry lid, it requires time and effort, but is a showstopper if friends are round for dinner. Find plenty more inventive veggie pie recipes to get stuck into. 41. Chip shop curry sauce The beauty of this homemade curry sauce is its versatility: as well as drizzling over chips, it can be used to make katsu curry. It's a brilliant alternative to shop-bought sauce and much cheaper to make in bulk and freeze for later. Check out our best fakeaway recipes for more homemade versions of your favourite takeaways, including doner kebab and classic fish & chips. 42. Smoked salmon & avocado sushi Making sushi at home is a fun Friday night activity. This simple recipe is surprisingly easy to achieve, and once you feel confident, you can start experimenting with different flavour combinations. Try your hand at more fresh and fun sushi recipes. 43. Chicken pasta bake Tuck into a bowl of gooey, cheesy chicken pasta for the ultimate Friday family dinner. With 589 ratings (and counting), you can be confident this bake will offer all the comfort you need for a Friday night in. Find more bubbling pasta bake recipes for the weekend, including meat and veggie-friendly options. 44. Truffled mac 'n' cheese Friday night calls for indulgence, and you'll get that with Tom Kerridge's ultimate truffle mac 'n' cheese, an amalgamation of all his favourite versions of this classic American dish. Try our classic mac 'n' cheese if you'd prefer, or make more riffs on the classic with our best mac 'n' cheese recipes. 45. Authentic pad Thai Friday night dinner for two is taken to the next level with this pad Thai, which calls for king prawns, tofu, pickled turnip and tamarind paste – it's a special dish that's packed with flavour. 46. Next level fried chicken Chicken thighs are fried to crisp perfection in this recipe. Assemble an American-inspired feast with sides of mac 'n' cheese, pickles and coleslaw. Try more twists on fried chicken for future Friday nights in with our fried chicken recipes. 47. Meatball & garlic bread traybake If you're craving a rich meatball dish, look no further than this traybake. Arrange meatballs over tomato sauce, then scatter over mozzarella, chunks of garlic bread and grated cheddar, and bake for 15-20 mins until golden and crisp. You can buy a pack of meatballs from the shops if you're running short on time. If you're a purist when it comes to meatballs, try our spaghetti & meatballs, or take your lasagne skills to new heights with this three-cheese meatball lasagne. 48. Sweet & sour prawns You can make these sweet & sour prawns in less time than it would take to have them delivered. Tailor the dish to suit your tastes by swapping prawns for chicken or pork, if you like. Looking for more prawn dishes? Tuck into our best prawn pasta recipes and prawn curry recipes. 49. Fajita-style pasta We've combined the flavours of a classic Mexican fajita with pasta to create this fun and easy Friday night dinner. This pasta is sure to become a family favourite – you could even swap the chicken for halloumi to make it vegetarian. 50. Halloumi flatbreads Everyone can tuck into these veggie halloumi wraps served with crunchy slaw and a generous dollop of hummus. Find more delicious wraps with our wrap recipe collection, featuring chilli chicken wraps and battered haddock & pesto wraps.
Experiment with this trending leafy green in salads, gratins and more. Our favourite cabbage recipes showcase how exciting the humble brassica can be
Cabbage is often overlooked in favour of more fashionable greens, but this year it’s getting the attention it deserves. This trending leafy green is delicious, affordable and grown right here in the UK. So, why not experiment with this versatile brassica with some of our tried-and-tested recipes? Whether you prefer it raw and crunchy or cooked to melting softness, there’s a cabbage variety and recipe for every taste. Scroll on to discover how to prepare, store and cook cabbage, along with how to choose the best cabbage. See our full collection of cabbage recipes, red cabbage recipes and cabbage soup recipes for more inspiration and also see our guide on how to cook cabbages for tips. We also have our top winter one-pot meals, healthy winter recipes and dishes celebrating winter vegetables. 1. Okonomiyaki Rustle up this popular Japanese pancake in half an hour, featuring finely shredded cabbage and chunks of pork belly in a savoury batter, drizzled with mayo and topped with nori (seaweed sheets) and spring onions. Okonomiyaki pancakes are a great way to use up leftovers and introduce a fun and flavourful addition to your dinner repertoire. Next, try our veggie okonomiyaki or seafood okonomiyaki. 2. Charred hispi cabbage & sausage pasta A clever way to combine cabbage and sausages, this hearty pasta dish chars small pieces of hispi cabbage for added flavour and texture. It’s a perfect storecupboard saviour for busy weeknights and will become a comfort food favourite in no time. 3. Chorizo-stuffed cabbage rolls Cabbage leaves are stuffed with a smoky chorizo and rice filling, then baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with parmesan. Try it yourself for a make-ahead family meal that’s well worth the effort. 4. Alpine-style cheesy cabbage gratin Layers of cabbage are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce for a warming, Alpine-inspired gratin. Serve this winter warmer alongside a Sunday roast and it will soon become a family favourite. Packed with Savoy cabbage, herbs and two types of cheese, it’s bubbling and golden from the oven. 5. Roasted cabbage with harissa butter beans & baked feta Pair roasted cabbage with punchy harissa, butter beans, preserved lemon and creamy baked feta for a wholesome vegetarian meal. When charred, cabbage takes on a deeply savoury, caramelised quality. 6. Green goddess cabbage salad Crunchy cabbage is the star in this hearty and vibrant salad, tossed with cucumber, spring onions and a creamy avocado and herb dressing. Serve with smoked trout, prawns, chicken or a veggie alternative such as falafel, halloumi or marinated tofu. 7. Cabbage rolls Wrap minced beef or pork in cabbage leaves to make this classic Polish dish, Gołąbki. Simmered in a tomato sauce, these rolls are deeply satisfying and are a timeless comfort food. 8. Squash & cabbage sabzi This speedy, Indian-inspired recipe pairs pumpkin or butternut squash with cabbage, cooked with ginger, garlic and warming spices. Serve this veggie dish at an Indian feast – it makes a good side dish with dhal and rice, or eat as a main with roti. 9. Red cabbage & beef rolls Tender red cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savoury beef and brown rice filling then baked in a tomato sauce. These moreish rolls make a colourful, wholesome and flavourful dinner that’s naturally gluten-free. 10. Winter cabbage & fennel slaw with pomegranate Shredded cabbage and fennel are tossed with pomegranate seeds, carrots and walnuts for a crisp, refreshing winter slaw. It’s perfect as part of a buffet or as a bright side to any winter meal. 11. Lemon butter baked white fish with shredded hispi cabbage Eat like an athlete with this balanced meal featuring flaky white fish baked in lemon butter, served with a medley of shredded hispi cabbage, peppers, carrots and new potatoes. It delivers four of your five-a-day and makes a good balance of carbs and protein – try it tonight for a light, satisfying and nutritious meal. 12. Cabbage roll enchiladas Give enchiladas a healthy, gluten-free twist by using cabbage leaves instead of tortillas. Filled with spicy beef and black beans then topped with yogurt and cheese, these rolls are hearty and healthy. 13. Sausage, miso & savoy cabbage one-pan roast Enjoy rich umami flavours such as miso and tahini in this hearty sausage and bean traybake. Savoy cabbage wedges are brushed with a miso, mirin and chilli glaze then roasted alongside sausages and butter beans for an all-in-one family meal. 14. Quick kimchi Cabbage is the key ingredient in this speedy version of the classic Korean fermented dish. This recipe sees cabbage fermented with carrots, radishes and spring onions in a tangy, spicy sauce – serve as a punchy side or condiment to liven up any meal. 15. Indian-inspired spicy cabbage Liven up lunchtime with spicy cabbage stir-fried with a kick of chilli and aromatic spices, then topped with a fried egg. This veggie recipe packs in plenty of veg and flavour, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian main. It's low-fat, gluten-free and packs in four of your 5-a-day, too. How to choose the best cabbage When shopping for cabbage, look for heads that are bright and have crisp leaves. Avoid cabbages that feel puffy, have holes in the leaves or have had their outer leaves stripped away. Cabbages with tightly packed leaves should feel heavy. How to prepare cabbage For loose-leaved cabbages, remove any old or damaged outer leaves, cut the leaves free of the core and slice out any tough central stalks. Rinse if needed, then chop or slice as desired. For tightly packed cabbages, strip the outer leaves, wash then quarter the cabbage and cut out the hard central core before chopping or shredding. If cooking red cabbage, add a splash of vinegar to the water to stop the colour running. How to store cabbage Loose-leaved cabbages will keep for several days in a cool, dark place. Tightly packed varieties can last even longer, making cabbage a practical choice for meal planning. How to cook cabbage Cabbage can be enjoyed raw in salads and slaws, quickly stir-fried, steamed, boiled, sautéed or slow-cooked in stews and braises. The key is to avoid overcooking, as this can result in an unpleasant smell. Liked this? Discover more... Winter pasta recipes Winter superfoods to try Protein-packed winter dishes to fuel your body and keep you going Freezable recipes Best ever winter one-pot meals Family winter traybake ideas Top winter soup recipes Freezable vegetarian family meals Quick winter dinner ideas
15 cheap and easy weeknight dinners to make in January
Feeling the pinch post-Christmas? These varied and budget-conscious dinners will help you save, from sausage cannelloni to creamy lasagne soup
Feeling like your weeknight dinner rotation is in need of a shake-up? Searching for easy and affordable meals to help make it through January without breaking the bank? We're here to assure you that it's entirely possible to enjoy comforting, seasonal meals all January long — without overspending. These budget-friendly recipes below make the most of winter produce and storecupboard staples with options for meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike. They're warming, satisfying and perfect for cold January evenings, all while keeping your food shop costs low. Looking for low-cost dinners to refresh your repertoire? See our budget winter recipes, budget batch cooking recipes and freezable winter dinners. 1. Sausage & winter greens cannelloni Stretch a pack of sausages and feed the whole family with this hearty cannelloni. The meaty ragu sauce is bulked out with nutrient-dense winter greens to make a filling, budget-friendly meal. This comforting dish serves up to six, making it ideal for batch cooking. Find more cosy dinners in our collection of winter pasta recipes. 2. Super-green curry with quinoa rice A healthy and comforting curry that's easy on the wallet is just the ticket for January. Chickpeas are used in this, but the curry base is adaptable; just add your choice of protein. A squeeze of lemon adds vitamin C to aid iron absorption and mixing quinoa with rice increases your intake of high-fibre wholegrains and protein. Next, check out our collection of healthy curry recipes. 3. Curried bean stew with coconut & coriander drizzle Make the most of a pantry staple – butter beans – in this hearty and fragrant stew. Butter beans are filling, packed with protein and low-cost, too. Topped with crispy kale, a drizzle of coriander chutney and a sprinkling of lime zest, it's a parade of flavour and will please even the staunchest of meat-eaters. Check out our bean recipes, including hearty soups, stews and one-pots. 4. Pulled chicken bowl January doesn't have to mean restricting or skimping on comforting foods. Instead, try this budget-friendly chicken and spinach dish with rice and tortilla chips, or use as a filling for a burrito or burger buns. It's low in calories but still delivers on those cosy, satisfying flavours. See our round-up of budget family chicken recipes for more ways to eat well without overspending. 5. Miso lentil & cabbage soup Fancy making your own soup to curl up with this January? This filling soup combines green lentils, pancetta, white cabbage and mushrooms, flavoured with miso for umami depth. It's then finished with a dollop of thick yogurt for fresh creaminess. It’s healthy, low in fat and packs in three of your five-a-day, too. See our hearty winter soups for more inspiration, as well as these miso recipes for using up the whole jar. 6. Microwave chicken & tomato risotto Use your microwave to rustle up this creamy chicken and tomato risotto for dinner this week. It’s hard to believe that using just a microwave can result in the creamiest of risottos – try it for yourself and watch it become your new comfort food favourite. Browse through our collection of microwave meals for more thrifty ways to use this appliance. 7. Curried chickpea brothy pasta Make a batch of spiced lentils and use them as a base for this cheap and cheerful pasta dish with curried chickpeas and kale. This cosy, comforting veggie dinner is perfect with flatbreads for dipping, and it's ready on the table in less than 30 minutes. Read up on the health benefits of chickpeas then use them in a plethora of satisfying dinners, from curries to traybakes. 8. Coconut & squash dhansak Check out this quick and easy vegetarian curry featuring butternut squash, coconut milk, lentils and spinach. It's both healthy and satisfying, plus it's suitable for gluten-free diets. It's also one of our highly-rated recipes, with over 300 ratings and an average of 5-stars. Find more cheap weeknight wins in our budget vegetarian recipe collection. 9. Creamy butter bean, kale & lasagne soup This hearty, wholesome soup is perfect for cold winter days. It's enriched with egg yolk, and parmesan lends it a velvety texture reminiscent of carbonara. It's also high in fibre and protein, served with crusty bread for dipping. Freeze any leftovers for a speedy midweek meal. We have plenty more butter bean recipes for you to try. 10. Black bean & tortilla soup Make good use of tinned black beans with this easy and satisfying tortilla soup. You'll probably have most of the ingredients already to hand, like tomato purée, chopped tomatoes and stock. Top with a sprinkle of coriander, avocado, feta and pumpkin seeds for extra flavour. Discover our budget storecupboard meals for more easy ways to cook with kitchen staples. 11. Easy air fryer cheese & ham hock gnocchi This creamy air fryer gnocchi bake is a one-pot wonder, made with potato gnocchi and classic cheese and ham. With a few staple storecupboard ingredients, you can have this dish from your air fryer to the table in just 15 minutes. Double up the recipe to feed a crowd. See our air fryer recipes for more ways to use this trusty mod-con. 12. Vegan lentil & sweet potato cottage pie Tuck into this hearty meat-free pie for dinner, featuring a rich umami sauce made from soy and mustard powder. Pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch, making this perfect vegan comfort food. This serves up to six – freeze any leftover portions for speedy meals as and when you want them. Discover more vegan comfort food recipes. 13. One-pan smoky veggie lentil lasagne Re-think lasagne with this comforting no-bake version – you’ll pack in lots of nutritious veggies, building up to 30 plant points for the week. The courgettes and mushrooms can be swapped out for other seasonal veg – leeks and aubergines work well. Check out more one-pan recipes and vegetarian lasagne recipes. 14. Slow-cooker sausage casserole Use your favourite sausages to make this family-friendly casserole. Making use of cheap, storecupboard heroes, you can serve this hearty casserole over pasta, baked potatoes or with bread. Perfect for a comforting winter dinner. Next, see our top 10 family sausage recipes, including this speedy sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot. 15. Orzo & chickpea soup Knock up this nourishing pasta soup made with orzo, chickpeas, vegetables and tinned tomatoes. Low in fat and calories, we like to top ours with a blanket of grated parmesan for a simple, satisfying veggie dinner. Search through more of our hearty pasta soup recipes, like this classic pasta e fagioli.
15 healthy winter dinner recipes to get you through January
These hearty and wholesome dinners are designed to keep you nourished and satisfied all month long, making January a little brighter – and a lot more delicious.
January can feel long, cold and dark, especially after the indulgence of the festive season. To help you beat the winter blues, we’ve gathered 15 cosy and comforting dinner recipes, each one brimming with nourishing ingredients. These dishes are perfect for warming you up, lifting your spirits and making the most of winter produce – just what you need to get out of the post-Christmas funk and into a healthier routine. Find more nutritious recipes in our collection of healthy dinner recipes, healthy soup recipes and heart-healthy recipes. 1. Healthy gnocchi This hearty and wholesome gnocchi dish is full of vegetables like spinach, white beans, tomatoes and red onion. It's low in fat, plus it can be on the table in just 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight win. Serve in bowls sprinkled with the parmesan, fresh parsley and a little black pepper to finish. 2. Spinach, sweet potato & lentil dhal Try our comforting vegan one-pot which counts for three of your five-a-day. This iron-rich, low-fat and low-calorie recipe is perfect for a chilly January evening. Any leftovers can be frozen too, perfect for batch-cooking on a budget. 3. Tomato & sardine orzo with olive gremolata Use two storecupboard staples, canned sardines and dried pasta, in this weeknight dinner which takes just 30 minutes to make. This low-calorie dish spotlights plenty of budget-friendly, accessible ingredients, helping you stretch your meals further. 4. Chinese chicken curry Recreate your favourite takeaway with this wholesome, easy chicken curry. Serve with fluffy rice for a simple, healthy family meal that just so happens to be high in protein and low in fat. With almost 700 ratings and a 5-star average, this is one of the most popular curry recipes on the Good Food website. 5. Yogurt, chickpea & spinach curry Serve this light and creamy chickpea curry with a half-quinoa, half-rice mixture for more fibre and protein. Try it tonight for a simple vegetarian dinner that's healthy, low in fat and low in calories. It's also great for those following a gluten-free diet. 6. Prawn & harissa spaghetti Check out our quick and healthy spaghetti dish with king prawns and a harissa dressing. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for a speedy midweek meal. It's also high in fibre and dairy-free. 7. Butter bean curry Rustle up a satisfying meat-free curry made with butter beans and antioxidant-rich aubergine. This hearty dish is packed full of nutritional benefits and is also low in fat. 8. Aubergine pasta arrabbiata Can't choose between Sicilian alla norma and spicy arrabbiata from Rome? Put them together for a healthy Italian-inspired dish everyone will love. Watch this vegetarian dish become a family favourite in no time. 9. One-pan beef stew with vegetable mash Try this comforting one-pan beef stew for an easy dinner that delivers all your five-a-day in one dish. Lean red meat is a valuable source of protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins, but we also have a vegan version of this recipe with squash, if you're looking for a meat-free option. 10. Healthy tikka masala Make this lighter take on the classic tikka masala, featuring a spicy, rich sauce that’s family-friendly and gluten-free. It's a guaranteed crowdpleaser, and any leftovers can be frozen. Win-win! 11. Chipotle chicken in tortilla bowls Looking for a fun and healthy Friday night meal for the family? This high-fibre dish from Dr Chintal Patel ticks all the boxes. Serve the tortilla bowls and fillings separately on table so everyone can choose their own combinations. 12. Curried cod Try this simple one-pot with cod fillet, chickpeas, ginger and spices. This healthy, low-calorie meal is packed with iron and is easy to prepare too, perfect for a hassle-free midweek meal. After removing from the oven, scatter over the lemon zest and coriander, then serve with the lemon wedges to squeeze over. 13. Ginger chicken udon noodles This fragrant dish sees noodles combined with chicken, beansprouts and cabbage, spiced with fiery ginger and red chilli. Ready in just half an hour, it's a light yet warming option that's ideal for busy evenings. 14. Spicy root & lentil casserole Root vegetables and lentils come together in this warming, lightly spiced casserole. The potatoes soak up all the delicious flavours, making this an ideal vegetarian supper for four. Top with yogurt and the rest of the coriander then serve with naan bread, if you like. 15. Chicken & chorizo jambalaya Keep mealtimes interesting with this hearty Cajun-inspired rice pot, packed with spicy Spanish sausage, sweet peppers and tomatoes. This easy, one-pan dish is both filling and full of flavour. It also happens to be our highest-rated dinner recipe on the Good Food site to date.
30 recipes to use up EVERY Christmas leftover you could possibly have
Raid your fridge, rescue those forlorn Christmas leftovers and transform them into new and exciting dishes, from turkey pasta bake to ham scones and Christmas pudding ice cream
Christmas is a time of abundance, but once the big day is over, you’re often left with a fridge stuffed with odds and ends. Whether it's half a turkey, the last wedge of stilton, a handful of roasties or a lonesome slice of panettone, the festive season can quickly become a battle against food waste. And there’s nothing worse than spending your time and money on a glorious Christmas spread, only for half of it to end up in the bin a few days later. What if, instead, you could turn those leftovers into a trove of delicious, thrifty meals that will keep you well fed through to the New Year? This is your definitive, one-stop guide to Christmas leftovers. Expect a varied, inspired selection of recipes for every leftover ingredient imaginable, from roast chicken and ham to potatoes, red cabbage, Christmas pudding and more. Whether you’re after quick snacks, hearty dinners or inventive desserts, there’s something here for everyone. No more endless turkey sandwiches and bubble & squeak (unless you want them!), no more waste and no more spending on new ingredients when your festive table has already provided plenty! Scroll on to discover how to transform your Christmas extras into new family favourites, making the most of every last crumb and saving you money. Leftover turkey Nothing says Christmas like turkey, and nothing says Boxing Day like working out what to do with all the leftovers. Fortunately, turkey is versatile and lends itself to a huge variety of dishes. 1. Leftover turkey curry Turn your leftover turkey into a creamy, gently spiced curry. Everything is cooked together in one pan to save on washing-up, and it marks a welcome change from traditional Christmas fare. Serve with rice and naan for a comforting Twixmas meal. If you like the look of this, you'll also love our turkey & parsnip curry. Or check out our chicken curry recipes collection for similar ideas. 2. Roast potato, turkey, sausage & stuffing pie Combine leftover turkey, sausages, stuffing and roast potatoes in a bubbling, golden-topped pie. It’s an all-in-one homage to your Christmas dinner, plus it's perfect for feeding a crowd. We have plenty more Christmas pie recipes to revamp your leftovers. 3. Turkey ramen Give your turkey a restorative twist by adding it to a fragrant broth with noodles, ginger and a jammy egg. This is a warming, nourishing bowl that’s ideal for curling up with during the post-Christmas slump and when you're sick of eating picky bits. See our collection of soothing chicken noodle soups for more recipe inspiration. 4. Best ever Christmas leftovers sandwich Layer up turkey, pigs in blankets, stuffing, roasties, pickled red cabbage and cranberry sauce between slices of bread for the ultimate Boxing Day sandwich. You could even serve with a little pot of hot gravy for dipping, if you like. Try more of our Christmas sandwich recipes, like this oozing pan-fried camembert sandwich. 5. Turkey cobb salad For something lighter, toss shredded turkey with sliced avocado, boiled eggs, pancetta, tomatoes and chicory. Drizzle over a tangy dressing for a salad that’s both substantial and refreshing. You can find more seasonal salad ideas in our collection of winter salad recipes. 6. Leftover turkey loaded nachos Scatter leftover turkey over tortilla chips with jalapeños, cheese and spring onions, repeat in layers then bake until warm and bubbling. Top with soured cream and jalapeños for a relaxed Twixmas diner or festive movie-night snack. We've got plenty more movie night recipes and nacho recipes to choose from. 7. Turkey & lemongrass noodle soup This vibrant, Asian-inspired noodle soup makes the most of leftover turkey, alongside red Thai curry paste, rice noodles and fresh herbs. Try it for a refreshing Twixmas dinner that's hot, spicy and crunchy. Or try our chicken noodle soup as a warming alternative. 8. Turkey pasta bake Use up your leftover turkey (or chicken) to make this super-comforting and cheesy pasta bake. If there's any spare from Christmas Day, you can top with a layer of pigs in blankets to take it to another level. Discover more tried-and-tested pasta bake recipes to add to your repertoire. 9. Christmas leftovers pizza Make leftover turkey and sausagemeat stuffing the stars of this colourful Christmas pizza – and to make it really easy, use a ready-made pizza base. A handful of other ingredients are all you need to whip up this fun festive mash-up. Discover even more leftover Christmas turkey recipes. Leftover ham & gammon Whether you’ve glazed a whole gammon or simply have a few slices left from the buffet, ham is a brilliant base for hearty family meals. 10. Celeriac hash with ham hock & duck eggs Rustle up a hearty hash for a fun way to use up lingering ham and root veg. You could try swapping the celeriac for parsnips, potatoes or Jerusalem artichokes, depending on what's still left in the fridge. Discover more ways to make a hearty brunch with our comforting hash recipes, including vegetarian, low-carb, gluten-free and Scandi-inspired options. 11. Pea & ham soup Put your leftover Christmas ham to brilliant use with this simple yet soothing pea and ham soup, made in the slow cooker for extra depth of flavour. This recipe uses just six ingredients, and is best enjoyed with crusty bread for dunking. See our pea & ham hock soup for a similar soup recipe. 12. Ham, leek & potato pie Chunks of ham, soft leeks and creamy potatoes encased in golden puff pastry – this is comfort food at its best, and a fantastic way to use up festive leftovers. We've opted for a pack of shop-bought puff pastry to cut corners (you probably won't fancy making pastry during the post-Christmas slump anyway). Our hearty, deep-filled turkey & ham pie is another brilliant way to use up your leftovers. 13. Boxing Day scones Bake up a batch of warm cheese and ham scones, perfect for welcoming last-minute guests or serving with soup. They’re a great way to use up both ham/gammon and any leftover cheese from your Christmas board – here we've used stilton. Continue the festive activities with one of our Christmas baking recipes, such as these fudgy Christmas crinkle cookies. 14. Creamy ham & mushroom pasta bake Mix leftover ham with mushrooms, pasta and a creamy sauce, then bake until golden and bubbling. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to scale up or down, and if you wanted to up the veg content, you could add peas or sweetcorn to the sauce (you can also omit the ham altogether and stir through wilted spinach and crumbled blue cheese). Dive into our collection of leftover ham recipes for more ways to revamp your leftovers. Leftover potatoes Potatoes are a staple of the Christmas table, and they’re just as delicious the next day. 15. Refried roasties Give leftover roast potatoes a new lease of life by frying them with pickled onions, cayenne and thyme until crispy and golden. These make a simple, moreish snack or side to serve at your Christmas buffet. See our ultimate collection of roast potato recipes for all your roastie needs. 16. Bubble & squeak cheesy bites Use up roastie and veg leftovers to make these crispy veggie morsels. Try serving with fried eggs and beans or kimchi for an exciting Twixmas lunch, or simply with ketchup for dunking. This recipe can be easily doubled/halved, plus you can freeze any leftovers. Bubble & squeak is a classic for a reason. See our full collection of bubble & squeak recipes for plenty of ideas. 17. Bombay potato omelette Craving spice? Zhuzh up your leftovers by folding roasties into an Indian-inspired omelette, finished with a dollop of yogurt or raita and a drizzle of chilli sauce. See our full collection of omelette recipes for more ways to rethink leftover ingredients. 18. Baked potato skins with brie & truffle Roast potatoes get the ultimate Boxing Day makeover with this easy dish from Tom Kerridge. They are transformed into luxury potato skins with brie and truffle – the truffle is optional, but Christmas is a time to indulge, after all. Left wanting more? Dive into our full collection of leftover potato recipes. Leftover cheese The cheeseboard is a Christmas tradition, but there’s always a bit left behind. Don’t let those precious crumbs go to waste! 19. Molten cheeseboard fondue Turn your cheeseboard leftovers into a retro fondue. Melt them with white wine, mustard and a grating of nutmeg, then dip in bread, veg or even cold meats. It makes perfect party food and it's ready in just 20 minutes. See our full collection of fondue recipes for more inspired cheesy creations. 20. Cheeseboard macaroni cheese Gather up any odds and ends of cheese – cheddar, blue, brie, camembert, you name it – and melt them into a rich, creamy macaroni cheese. If you like the look of this recipe, you'll love our cheeseboard mac ’n’ cheese with cracker breadcrumbs, which features a topping made from leftover crackers for extra crunch. 21. Cheeseboard & onion tart This vegetarian tart sees a mix of blue, creamy and hard cheeses combined with caramelised onions in a pastry case. Try it for a satisfying lunch, dinner or as part of a Christmas buffet. Discover our selection of vibrant vegetable tarts for more pastry inspiration. 22. Pan-fried camembert sandwich Oozing with gooey camembert and topped with cranberry sauce for a Christmas kick, this toastie is anything but ordinary. The simplicity of the recipe means it's ready to eat in around five minutes. Still experiencing cheese cravings? Browse our full collection of leftover cheese recipes. Leftover red cabbage & other vegetables Christmas sides are often the first to be abandoned in the fridge, but they can be the start of something new. 23. Christmas lasagne This epic festive lasagne does its bit to reduce food waste by using up leftover roasted parsnips. It then takes it to a whole new level, with a cinnamon-spiced beef ragu and a chestnut béchamel. Dark chocolate adds a wonderful richness to the ragu, too. Like the look of this? Discover more lasagne recipes. 24. Red cabbage, cauliflower & coconut dhal Transform leftover red cabbage and cauliflower into a nourishing dhal with coconut milk and warming spices. It’s healthy, filling and vegan-friendly, too. Vegans needn't miss out at Christmas – our flavourful vegan Christmas recipes, from snacks and mains to puds, ensure they're catered for. 25. Brussels sprout slaw If you’ve got a handful of uncooked sprouts left, shred them and toss with red cabbage, carrot and a tangy dressing for a crunchy winter slaw to serve alongside cold cuts on Boxing Day. Sprout fans are in serious luck with our top collection of Brussels sprout recipes. 26. Root veg lentil bowl with herb pistou Roast any leftover carrots, parsnips or other roots, then serve over puy lentils with a fresh herb sauce. Try it for a lighter, meat-free option in the days after Christmas. Discover more lighter meals in our collection of healthy Christmas recipes. Leftover Christmas pudding, cake & mince pies The sweet centrepieces of Christmas can be transformed into brand new treats. 27. Christmas pudding trifle Layer crumbled Christmas pudding leftovers with Grand Marnier-soaked oranges, custard and lightly whipped cream for a truly showstopping dessert. You can make this a day in advance, if you like, and chill until ready to serve. Trifles are a popular part of Christmas feasting. Take your pick from our ultimate collection of Christmas trifle recipes. 28. Easy Christmas pudding ice cream Stir chunks of Christmas pudding into homemade vanilla ice cream, then freeze for a rich, fruity treat that keeps well into January. You'll be extra proud of this one. If you like the sound of this, you're guaranteed to love the look of this Christmas ice cream bombe. 29. Rye Christmas pudding cookies Mix leftover Christmas pudding into rye flour cookie dough for soft biscuits with festive flavour in every bite. Even Christmas pudding sceptics will be swayed by these buttery delights. Browse our collection of leftover Christmas pudding recipes for more thrifty ideas. 30. Panettone pudding If your panettone is going stale, soak it in a mix of eggs, cream and vanilla, then bake until golden. Dust with icing sugar and serve with spoonfuls of whipped cream for a luxurious spin on bread-and-butter pudding. See our guide to the best leftover Christmas desserts for more ideas, including our mince pie cheesecake, mince pie truffles and mince pie brownies. Tips for using up every last bit Bread and crackers: blitz stale bread or crackers into breadcrumbs for a great coating for fried or baked fish, or even as a crispy topping for macaroni cheese. Fruit and nuts: add any leftover dried fruit or nuts to couscous, salads or porridge for a festive twist. Veg peelings: turn peelings into homemade vegetable crisps or add to stocks for extra flavour.
The most popular recipes of 2025 - 15 dishes you couldn't get enough of
From burnt cheesecake to protein pancakes and marry me chicken, these are the recipes which made it into Good Food's top risers of 2025
Each year, we see certain recipes rise to the top, capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of thousands. These are the recipes that get saved, shared and rated five stars by readers who return to them week after week. From quick midweek dinners to indulgent bakes, these dishes have become staples in households up and down the country. It’s clear that the nation’s appetite for delicious, reliable recipes shows no sign of waning. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, there’s always room in your recipe repertoire for more inspiration. We know how important it is to have a collection of dishes you can turn to time and again — those crowd-pleasers that never let you down, as well as new discoveries that bring a spark of excitement to your everyday meals. Alongside this year’s trending favourites, there’s a core collection of recipes that rarely leave the top of the charts. These are the recipes that have stood the test of time, with thousands of five-star ratings and a place in the nation’s heart. Every Sunday, for example, we see huge spikes as the nation whips up Yorkshire puds. These classics rarely budge from the nation’s favourites: Easy pancakes: the ultimate weekend treat, perfect with lemon and sugar or your favourite toppings. Banana bread: the bake that kept us all going – ideal for using up overripe bananas. Best Yorkshire puddings: no roast is complete without them – puffed-up, golden and gloriously crisp. Chilli con carne: a warming, versatile dish that’s brilliant for batch-cooking and sharing. Best spaghetti bolognese: a reliable family favourite that makes brilliant use of storecupboard staples Best ever chocolate brownies: fudgy, chocolatey and completely irresistible. Chocolate chunk cookies: soft in the middle, crisp at the edges – perfect with your afternoon tea. Ultimate spaghetti carbonara: creamy, silky pasta with pancetta and parmesan. Cottage pie: comfort food at its finest, topped with fluffy mash. Classic Victoria sandwich recipe: the quintessential British cake, sandwiched with jam and cream. If you’re after a bit of dinner inspiration or simply curious about what everyone else is cooking, settle in and discover Good Food’s most popular recipes of 2025 – 15 dishes you couldn’t get enough of this year. Each one comes with a little insight into why it’s so loved, and how you can make it your own. Good Food's most popular recipes of 2025 1. Marry me chicken If there’s one dish that has continued to take social media — and dinner tables — by storm this year, it’s marry me chicken. This creamy, sun-dried tomato chicken recipe is so irresistible, it’s said to inspire proposals. The appeal is obvious: it’s a one-pot wonder that delivers maximum flavour with minimal fuss, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself midweek. One reader commented, “This is probably our favourite recipe from this site, great for family dinners but I also made a double batch for a family event and it was all eaten. Highly recommend.” The creamy sauce, aromatic herbs and hint of tang from the tomatoes make this a dish you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Try next: If you love this, you’ll also enjoy our creamy Tuscan chicken or creamy garlic pasta for more comforting, crowd-pleasing chicken dinners. 2. Microwave mug cake Sometimes, only a quick fix will do. Our microwave mug cake has become a new go-to for those late-night sweet cravings, or when you want a treat without the washing up. Ready in minutes and endlessly customisable, it’s no wonder this speedy dessert has earned hundreds of five-star ratings. “This was easy to make and tasted so good. I highly recommend this recipe to anyone who’s starting out baking or just looking for something quick and easy as a dessert after a long day. I absolutely loved it,” shared one happy baker. Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla or a fruity twist, this recipe is the ultimate solo pudding. Try next: Explore our range of mug cake recipes, including vegan and gluten-free options, or give our hot chocolate mug cake a whirl. 3. Easy protein pancakes With the rise of health-conscious cooking and a focus on high-protein breakfasts, our easy protein pancakes recipe has soared in popularity. These light, fluffy pancakes are perfect for fuelling busy mornings or post-workout brunches. Readers love how simple they are to whip up. “Lovely, light and fluffy, we made ours with chocolate protein and they were fabulous” is a top comment. Serve in stacks and top with nut butter, maple syrup and fruit for a balanced start to your day. Try next: For more breakfast ideas, see our black forest breakfast bowl or breakfast egg wraps for a healthy savoury breakfast. 4. Classic margarita It’s not just food that’s getting the Good Food community excited — tart and zingy cocktails are having a moment too. The classic margarita is a timeless favourite, ideal for summer gatherings or a Friday night in. With its perfect balance of tangy lime, smooth tequila and a hint of sweetness, this cocktail has become a staple for home bartenders. “My favourite cocktail. Followed this recipe exactly and this tastes exactly like how it does from a bar!” wrote one reviewer. Don’t forget the salt rim for that authentic finish. Try next: If you’re in the mood for more tipples, explore our collection of classic cocktails, from mojito to Aperol spritz. 5. Burnt basque cheesecake The burnt Basque cheesecake earned a cult following this year, thanks to its striking appearance and gorgeously creamy centre. Unlike other cheesecakes, there’s no biscuit base – just a deeply caramelised exterior giving way to a light, almost soufflé-like middle. It’s the ultimate showstopper for dinner parties or special occasions. “Wow. I made this twice over the weekend, the second to give to my daughter and son in law who introduced me to Basque cheesecake in the first place. Amazing dessert, so creamy and light. I served it with a tart morello cherry compote,” said one reader. Serve it plain or check out Matty Edgell's salted caramel version which is served with chocolate sauce. Try next: If you love a bake with a twist, try our millionaire's cheesecake or lemon drizzle cake for more classic desserts. 6. Ginger shots Wellness has been a major theme this year, and ginger shots have become a breakfast staple for many. Packed with zingy, immune-boosting goodness, these little shots are easy to make at home and far more affordable than shop-bought versions. “Amazing recipe! keeps the body going in the colder months,” said one enthusiastic reviewer. Blend fresh ginger with lemon and apple juice or a touch of honey for a fiery start to your day. Try next: For more healthy breakfast inspiration, check out our smoky beans on toast or protein porridge. 7. School cake Nostalgia is a powerful thing, and our multi-coloured school cake has brought back fond memories for many. This simple traybake, topped with a thick layer of icing and rainbow sprinkles, is a hit with both children and adults. “This is such a good easy make cake. My family love it and it’s often requested even for birthdays,” shared a reader. It’s easy, fun and perfect for bake sales or parties. Cut into squares and serve with hot custard, if you like. Try next: For more retro bakes, try our jam roly-poly or black forest arctic roll 8. Honey chicken A sticky, sweet-savoury sensation, our recipe for honey chicken has become a midweek favourite for families. Quick to prepare and wonderfully versatile, it’s delicious served over rice or with a side of steamed greens. One reviewer said, “Just made this and it was delicious, I added mixed peppers and it was bang on, even the kids loved it. This will now be our Tuesday night go to meal!”. The glossy sauce and tender chicken pieces make this a dish you’ll return to time and again. Try next: Explore more chicken recipes such as this chicken & bacon pasta or chicken stroganoff for similar comfort and ease. 9. Pasta alla vodka Pasta alla vodka has taken off in recent years as a creamy, tomato-rich pasta dish with a hint of chilli and – as you can guess – vodka, which balances out the intense flavours. It’s indulgent, fast and easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. “Absolutely delicious! The vodka really brings out the flavours! Loved it. Plus super fast and easy to make,” raved one home cook. Finish with a sprinkling of parmesan, a good grinding of black pepper and fresh basil for a flavoursome, high-fibre meal. Try next: For more cosy pasta recipes, see our fajita-style pasta or Cajun chicken pasta. 10. Overnight oats Overnight oats have become the breakfast hero of the year for their convenience and versatility. Prepare them the night before and wake up to a nutritious, grab-and-go meal. Readers love how easy it is to customise with fruit, nuts, seeds or a swirl of nut butter. “Great to know that a breakfast could be tasty, filling and easy to make. The combination of the almond butter and yogurt made for a nice topping,” said one reviewer. It’s a brilliant way to eat well without the morning rush. Try next: If you’re a fan of make-ahead breakfasts, try our blueberry baked oats or healthy homemade granola for more energising starts. 11. Classic lasagne No list of favourites would be complete without a hot, bubbling lasagne. This comforting, layered pasta bake is five-star, perennial winner, perfect for feeding a crowd or batch-cooking for the freezer. The combination of rich meaty sauce, creamy béchamel and gooey cheese is simply unbeatable. “This lasagne is an amazing dish, in fact the best I’ve ever cooked! Definitely a 5 out of 5. I cooked it with my daughter and it was very fun,” said one user. Try next: For more hearty mains, see our one-pot chicken chasseur or lamb biryani. 12. One pot garlic chicken This one pot garlic chicken has emerged as a weeknight saviour — minimal washing up, maximum flavour. Juicy chicken breasts cooked with plenty of garlic, cream and cheese make for a dish that’s as comforting as it is easy. “My fussy kids wolf this down! 5/5. Nice with a jacket potato and lots of veg on the side,” wrote one reviewer. Serve with rice and green beans, if you like. Try next: For more one-pan wonders, try our nduja pasta or chicken provençal. 13. Roast pork with crackling A Sunday roast is a British institution, and Barney's recipe for roast pork with crackling is the centrepiece many aspire to perfect. Achieving that crisp, golden crackling is the holy grail, and this recipe delivers every time. One reader shared, “I cooked this today and it was amazing. The sauce was delicious with a lovely flavour of the apple [...] It was a big hit with the family. Will definitely repeat.” Serve with apple & cider gravy, roast potatoes and all the trimmings. Try next: For more roast inspiration, see our foolproof slow roast chicken or check out our step-by-step guide to the perfect Yorkshire puddings. 14. Thai red curry For those who love bold, aromatic flavours, this Thai red curry has become a go-to. This recipe balances heat, fragrance and creaminess, and is easily adaptable to your favourite protein or vegetables. “Made for the first time, and it was delicious. Simple and straightforward to make,” commented one fan. Top with red chilli, a thumb-sized piece of ginger and a few extra basil leaves, then serve with jasmine rice. Try next: For more global flavours, try our crispy sesame chicken or Mexican street corn soup. 15. Chicken jambalaya Rounding out our top 15 is our chicken jambalaya — a healthy, flavour-packed one-pot inspired by the cuisine of Louisiana. Our highest-rated dinner recipe on the website, it's perfect for feeding a crowd, and is as colourful as it is tasty. “I’ve made this jambalaya several times now with winning comments and requests for the recipe each time; it really is lovely. [...] Love this recipe and will make again and again,” said one reviewer. Sliced chorizo, peppers and a kick of Cajun seasoning make this a dish to remember. Try next: For more warming one-pots, try our one-pot prawn & lentil curry or salmon risotto. Have you tried any of these recipes? Share your favourite twists and tips or let us know what you’d like to see next year. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, Good Food is here to help you make every meal memorable.
Christmas without the hassle – 15 recipes you can freeze ahead before the big day
Enjoy all the flavours of a traditional Christmas feast with none of the last-minute hassle with these freezable recipes. Simply defrost, reheat and serve.
Christmas should be a time to be merry and enjoy the company of loved ones, not to be chained to the kitchen in a last-minute panic. We've got you covered. By preparing and freezing a few festive staples in advance, you can take (most of) the stress out of Christmas Day. Our easy, freezable recipes shared below span starters, mains, sides and desserts, meaning you’ll have all the Christmas favourites ready to go — leaving you with more time for presents, games and that all-important glass of fizz. Hosting for the first time? Our tried-and-tested recipes will ensure all your Christmas feasting needs are covered, from Christmas snacks, starters, centrepieces and desserts. We also have a selection of freezable Christmas baking recipes, perfect for last-minute Christmas guests needing a sweet treat. 1. Unbelievably easy mince pies No Christmas is complete without a batch of mince pies. Simply fill melt-in-the-mouth shortcrust pastry with our zesty homemade mincemeat and pop in the freezer up to a month ahead, then bake straight from frozen for a freshly baked treat whenever guests arrive. See our ultimate collection of freezable mince pie recipes for more ways to bake this festive favourite. 2. Golden roast potatoes Did you know you can par-boil and freeze your roasties ahead of time? Instead of spending time peeling potatoes on Christmas morning, simply roast from frozen for crisp, fluffy potatoes without the faff. We have plenty more crispy and fluffy Christmas roast potato recipes to try. 3. Super-simple cranberry sauce Cranberry sauce lovers, you're in luck: homemade sauce can be made well in advance and frozen in portions (plus, this recipe calls for just three ingredients). Simply defrost then serve with your turkey for a sharp, fruity contrast. Find more varieties for this festive trimming in our collection of cranberry sauce recipes. 4. Best ever Yorkshire puddings These Yorkshire puddings taste light and fluffy even after freezing. And using only four ingredients, this recipe couldn't be easier. Just bake a batch ahead and freeze for up to a month. Reheat from frozen at 200C/180C fan/gas 6 for 6-8 mins – just make sure they are hot through to serve. Discover more Yorkshire pudding recipes. 5. Vegan butternut & pecan spiral pies Use shop-bought filo pastry to make this festive meat-free centrepiece. The squash filling is packed with umami notes thanks to miso paste and soy sauce, plus a touch of maple sweetness. 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. Take a look at our vegetarian dinner recipes for more inspired veggie dishes. 6. Sausage & Bramley stuffing Combining classic sage and onion with Bramley apples, this stuffing loaf is packed with festive flavours. You can freeze this stuffing for up to two months – just make sure to defrost in the fridge overnight before cooking. See our collection of stuffing recipes and vegetarian stuffing recipes for more ideas. 7. Triple pigs in blankets Assemble your pigs in blankets, cover your tray tightly with kitchen foil or put in a freezable container and freeze for up to two weeks. When you're ready to defrost, bake from frozen in a hot oven for 20-30 minutes for a sizzling, festive favourite. See our pigs in blankets recipes for more twists on this Christmas favourite. 8. Make-ahead gravy Nothing beats a rich, homemade gravy, and the good news is you can make and freeze our recipe weeks in advance. On Christmas Day, simply reheat and add the roasting juices from your turkey for extra flavour. See our collection of gravy recipes for more inspiration, including our vegetarian alternative. 9. Red cabbage with balsamic vinegar & cranberries Red cabbage with balsamic vinegar makes a colourful, sweet side that also happens to freeze beautifully. Simply make ahead and reheat for a vibrant vegan addition to your table. This tastes really festive and includes fresh cranberries, so you won’t need to make a separate cranberry sauce. Find more ideas in our cranberry sauce collection, including this easy cranberry & orange relish. 10. Cheesy sprout gratin Convert even the most dedicated sprout sceptics with this deliciously creamy, cheesy gratin. Prepare, freeze and bake from frozen until golden and bubbling. For the best results, freeze before adding the nutty breadcrumbs and before baking (you can freeze the nutty breadcrumbs in a separate container or bag). Defrost both in the fridge overnight, sprinkle over the nutty breadcrumbs and baker as per the recipe. Try more revamped sprouts dishes, such as our brussels sprout slaw. 11. Nut roast A vegetarian classic, our nut roast can be made, sliced and frozen. Simply reheat slices in the oven for an easy vegetarian main or side. Boasting over 300 star ratings it's also one of our most popular Christmas recipes on the site. Try more of our nut roast recipes, including this easy vegan nut roast and nut roast rolls. 12. Mince pie brownies Combine whole mince pies with brownie batter and what do you get? This epic festive mash-up. These gooey morsels will keep in an airtight container for a week and in the freezer for up to a month, so you can whip out a chocolate treat at a moment's notice. Discover more squidgy bakes in our Christmas chocolate collection. 13. Bread sauce A roast dinner is not complete without the accompaniment of bread sauce. Our easy recipe is sure to be a Christmas favourite – prepare your sauce, cool and freeze in a plastic bag. You may need to add a splash of cream when you defrost. We have plenty more bread sauce recipes for you to try, such as this silky and thick brown butter bread & onion sauce. 14. Quick Christmas pudding Left it too late to make and feed a classic Christmas fruitcake? Opt for this speedy microwave Christmas pudding, which uses shop-bought mincemeat and takes just 35 minutes to make. Simply microwave the pudding, then cool and freeze. When you want to serve, defrost at room temperature then reheat in the microwave for a few minutes, until piping hot. Search our Christmas pudding and Christmas cake recipe collections for more tried-and-tested recipes. 15. Red velvet brownies Brownie lovers, rejoice! These rich, festive brownies can be baked and frozen in advance, perfect for any last-minute Christmas guests. They're beautifully swirled with a tangy cheesecake filling and festively red to brighten your Christmas gatherings – you could even crush candy canes and sprinkle over the brownie batter before baking for an extra festive twist. Discover more delicious festive bakes in our collection of Christmas baking recipes, including our next-level yule log.