Summer starter recipes

Use good-quality chickpeas to give this vegan hummus a really silky feel. Dips make perfect, easy party food to serve with crudités and warm pittas

This roasted tomato and red pepper soup is livened up a spoonful of ricotta plus toppings. It's classic comfort food and also a low-calorie, healthy option

Perfect as a snack, miso adds a deep savoury flavour to these low-calorie eggs. Try them served on salad for a quick and tasty lunch, or as a starter

Make a speedy version of romesco sauce with its famous almond and red pepper flavours. Serve on sourdough and add broccoli for a colourful, vegetarian lunch

After a tasty, healthy snack or a starter for entertaining? This avocado dish contributes two of your five-a-day and takes mere minutes to prepare

We love the contrast of flavours, textures and temperatures in this gazpacho served with runner bean tempura and pickled coriander seeds. A fabulous starter

Serve tricolore salad with a twist using heritage tomatoes, ricotta and salsa verde. A lovely summery side dish for a picnic, barbecue, or light lunch

Liven up shop-bought hummus with a flavour-rich chorizo, red pepper and almond topping. Serve as a snack or an easy starter with pitta bread or crudités

Look for Cornish, Devon or Jersey crab for the sweetest flesh to enhance these filo parcels inspired by the Tunisian dish brik. Serve with tomato salsa

Whip up this classic Italian vegetable soup with a rich tomato base and pasta. It's low in calories and packed with fibre and vitamin C

When the weather is warmer, bring some sunshine flavours into everyone’s favourite afternoon tea and picnic snack

This soup has a wonderful, fresh peppery flavour. Great for Sunday lunch

These healthy prawn bites make a great light lunch or snack with a little bowl of sweet chilli sauce