Slow Cooker Mini Orange and Ginger Cheesecakes

This simple method for cooking cheesecake means a less-fussy water bath and no cracked tops. Lining the underside of the slow cooker lid with paper towels keeps the moist heat in while also preventing condensation from dripping onto the cakes. If you use canning jars, these individual cakes are easy to take to a dinner party; just screw on the lids, tote them in a cooler and garnish before serving. Cost: $1.60/serving

Herbed Gnocchi

Little herbed potato dumplings make a delicious change from the usual Yorkshire pudding and mashed potatoes or roast potato side dish.

Roast Lamb Turkish Pizzas

Inspired by a popular Turkish flatbread pizza, this dish cleverly uses leftover roast lamb instead of the traditional topping of ground lamb. The savoury garlic sauce adds creaminess in place of cheese; double the recipe and use the extra as a salad dressing, if you like.

Chicken, Mushroom Pasta Bake

This is based on a favorite recipe that my mom made during my growing up years. I've lightened it up, so it is now a healthy dish that I make for my family and we love it!

Double chocolate cake

Try these gourmet desserts sweetened only with dates from French-Canadian cookbook author Madame Labriski.

Aubergine and Pasta Charlotte

Cabbage-Roll Casserole

This is a good, easy variation on the more time-gobbling traditional cabbage-roll recipe I use when I have th time, but with all that great mixture of flavours! You can play with the proportions and amounts quite a bit and still have a good recipe. Do the prep the night before, and leave in your oven with the self-timer set, come home to a great-smelling house!

Green Onion Parmesan Dip

Mini Pumpkin Tarts

These single-serving-size pumpkin pies are a fun and easy-to-assemble take on the classic Thanksgiving dessert. Make a double batch for a large crowd and watch them disappear!

Ratatouille Calzones

Chunky vegetables in a tomato sauce fills these tasty calzones, which even meat eaters will enjoy. Whole wheat pizza dough boosts fibre and protein. The ratatouille sauce is also great served over pasta for a quick vegetarian dinner.