With the holiday season upon us, I thought I would put together a post of some of my favourite recipes. I have split them up as Starters, Mains and Desserts to make this very busy season easy for you if you are planning on having a big family lunch or dinner. These are sure to impress but still leave you with enough time to enjoy yourself and not be stuck in the kitchen. For tips and tricks to make your day easier don’t forget to read my post about planning a successful event here.

Starters

Pineapple Carpaccio 

This pineapple carpaccio has 3 of the 5 tastes (sweet, sour & salty) and is the perfect starter to get mouths watering for the next course. It is so easy and can be prepared in advance without loosing the texture and flavour of the dish.

Corn Fritters

These nibbly bits are great if you are serving finger or snacky food. They are very easy to make, feed a lot, and you can make them slightly in advance (if you follow my tips) without them becoming soggy. Serve with sweet chilli sauce and your family will love you for it. They won’t even mind if that’s the only thing you’re serving. Just kidding!

Seekh Kebab

All the meat lovers in your family will appreciate this one. Serve them plain with toasted pistachios and yoghurt or turn it into a main course on a platter to share with flatbreads and spreads.

Main Courses

Prawn Curry 

Mains are always tricky because there are many hungry people to please. There’s nothing more delicious than a big bowl of prawn curry wafting it’s awesomeness through the house. Everyone will be able to smell it before it hits the table. Prawns are definitely a favourite in my family when it comes to celebratory meals!

Biryani flavoured Risotto

When two worlds collide – I told you Prawns are a favourite, you will just have to try this one and find out why.

Beef fillet & all the sides 

Nothing beats a good ‘ol classic fillet with all the sides. This main course needs no introduction and is a sure crowd pleaser.

Desserts

Persian Love Cake

I don’t make a lot of desserts at home but a piece of cake with a cuppa tea always goes down well. Since I am obsessed with Ispahan flavours I feel you can literally add them to anything. Cheesecake, cupcakes, ice cream etc. Just use this flavour combo to make any dessert EXTRA and luxe.

Granadilla anything 

The star of this recipe is the granadilla curd from Sam Linsell’s Drizzle & Dip. Serve it atop a fluffy pavlova or with ice cream as it is light, tangy and full of summery flavour.

Poached Pears

These are Saffron poached pears with a vanilla créme anglaise that I make at work 3 times a year. After eating a big meal these light and fresh flavours leave you satisfied but not like you need to unbutton those jeans (You know what I’m talking about). Here are some similar recipes I found browsing the inter-webs.

Jamie Oliver Saffron Poached Pears

Bon Appetit Cardamom & Saffron Poached Pears (use orange juice or water if you need to substitute the wine)

Well there you have it folks, did you enjoy this post?

I hope it makes the decision-making a lot easier for you this festive season and hope you have the best time with your family & friends.