Brandied Spiced Figs

These boozy figs are perfect for nibbling after dinner with good-quality cheese and a glass of spiked eggnog. Give a jar to a lucky friend on your list, and be sure to let her in on this secret: The leftover liquid from the bottle is incredible when stirred into bold coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

The classics never go out of style – and vanilla is still the most popular flavour of ice cream in North America.

Sauteed Carrots and Gobo

(Kimpira Gobo)
This traditional Japanese vegetable dish has an earthy aroma that adds a touch of sweet heat to the crunchy vegetables.

Spider Web Salsa Dip

This spooky adaptation of a party favourite will keep hungry pumpkin carvers grinning. Lime juice helps maintain the avocados\' bright colour. Serve with tortilla chips.

Tex-Mex Seven-Layer Dip

This ultimate party dip comes with seven layers of different flavours and textures to create an irresistible dip that will satisfy all tastebuds.

Easy Nicoise Salad

Hard-cooked eggs and flaky tuna make this French dinner salad an easy yet substantial meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Chunky Spiced Ground Beef Skillet Dinner

This ground beef dish is made special by adding a spice blend of paprika, ginger and cumin. Serve over a couscous for an easy-to-make dinner.

Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

This classic Italian soup is perfectly suited to a slow cooker. If you have a piece of Parmigiano-Reggiano or grana Padano cheese, cut off the rind to add to the soup and infuse it with flavour.

Garden Egg Salad

A simple, cold boiled egg makes a good addition to the lunch bag or in a salad such as this. Pack ingredients in divided containers for your child to toss together at lunchtime. Don't forget to send along a fork.

Pressure Cooker Burrito Bowls