Classic Irish Soda Bread

Historically a poor man's staple because it needs only the most basic of ingredients, this must-have for any Irish supper is also a great introduction to bread-making for novice bakers—there's no fussing with yeast! Out of the oven, the top is super crispy and the soft inside tastes yummy slathered with butter.

Bacon & Pea Risotto

Make-Ahead Fajitas

By preparing the meat and vegetables at home, these fajitas are a cinch to put together soon after arrival or after a long canoe trip. Add some sliced avocado if you like.

Cavatelli with Tomato Compote

Hasselback Potato & Cheese Casserole

Hasselback potatoes are a Swedish creation that hail from the Stockholm restaurant Hasselbacken. Make sure this irresistible Scandi side dish is on your holiday dinner menu this year. 

Herbed Lemon Spareribs

Look for the meatiest ribs when planning a barbecue. Back ribs are best but side ribs, if not trimmed too close to the bone, make a succulent feast. Ribs can simply be marinated and grilled slowly over low heat but precooking ribs ensures juicier, more tender meat and the actual barbecuing takes only about 10 minutes per side — an important consideration when cooking ribs for a crowd. If using chopped fresh herbs, double the quantities given.

Salade Nicoise

This composed whole meal salad is a classic from the city of Nice in the south of France. In this version, the tuna is grilled rare for a fresh update. However, you can use 3 cans (each 6 oz/170 g) solid white tuna instead. You can prepare all the cooked ingredients and dressing and hold, covered and refrigerated, for up to 1 hour.

Mushroom, Leek & Blue Cheese Pâté

Cheddar Chorizo Gougères

Potato and Salmon Cakes

A few fresh ingredients and a bit of flaky salmon give leftover mashed potatoes a tasty new lease on life. Depending on how salty your mashed potatoes are, you might want to add an extra pinch of salt. Serve with a simple green salad for a light lunch or dinner.