Recipe Sifter

Classic New Orleans bananas Foster: halved bananas caramelized in brown sugar and butter, flambeed with rum, and spooned over French vanilla ice cream tableside.

A delicious summer standard at our place. Easy to make with a mix of Southern European and Middle Eastern flavours. I use my Cucumber Raita (posted separately) to dress the lamb salad or you can use the quick yoghurt dressing provided here.

Diabetic-friendly free green salad mixes romaine, iceberg, spinach, and endive with radishes, cucumber, and celery for a low-carb, low-calorie bowl that fits any meal plan.

Fresh basil and ripe avocado blended with almonds, garlic, and lemon juice into a creamy 10-minute chutney. A vibrant, herbaceous condiment for grilled meats and fish that beats store-bought every time.

Ginger-loaded tofu stir-fry with tree ear mushrooms, green peas, and a sweet-sour vinegar finish. A quick Chinese vegetarian wok dish with earthy, bold flavors.

Fresh berries with a blended sweet yogurt sauce made from low-fat yogurt, jam, and citrus zest. A light, 5-minute no-cook dessert that's diet-friendly.

Chilled berry buttermilk soup with blueberries or strawberries, orange zest, and tangy buttermilk blended until smooth. A cold fruit soup that works as a refreshing summer starter or light dessert.

Homemade fish stock with white fish bones, aromatics, white wine, and lemon. A clear, light seafood broth that forms the base of bouillabaisse, chowders, and risotto.

A delicious muesli mix made of rolled oats, seedless raisins and bananas.

Bircher muesli was first developed by a Swiss physician, Maximilian Bircher-Benner as part of the therapy he prescribed for his patients. Often called simply ‘overnight oats’ Bircher muesli is an ideal breakfast food – it can be assembled the night before, left in the fridge overnight and enjoyed in the morning – there is no cooking required. It's also a perfect combination of plant-based protein, slow-release wholegrain carbohydrates, and essential fats. The version below calls for pears and coconut, but alternative combinations are provided in the notes.

Elegant baked monkfish and shrimp in individual ramekins with a curried saffron cream custard. A stunning starter or light lunch for two when doubled up. Serves 4.

Cream cheese ball prefect for crackers or anytime you have guests coming.

Jewel-toned apple rings preserved in a brandy-spiked sugar syrup and water bath canned for year-round enjoyment. A stunning edible gift or garnish that captures fall in a jar.

Rich tomato gravy spiked with brandy, beef broth, and meat extract paste, thickened with a butter roux. A savory pour-over sauce that elevates roasts, meatloaf, and mashed potatoes.

Low-fat broccoli and mushroom dip made with cottage cheese, plain yogurt, garlic, and sauteed mushrooms. A lighter vegetable-packed party dip with creamy texture and no sour cream or mayo.

Broccomole: a fat-free, vegan guacamole swap made from pureed broccoli stems with cumin, green chilies, and fresh tomato. McDougall diet friendly.