february
Roast capsicum and feta crostini
This is the simplest, most delicious dip and it tastes amazing. Try goats' cheese instead of feta. And just pile this into a bowl and use as a dip.
Corn and crab cakes
Low in total and saturated fat, these are also a good source of protein and fibre.
Mediterranean-style salad
Make this up to two days ahead, as the flavours and texture really develop – refresh it with olive oil and extra basil leaves before serving.
Honey-glazed tuna with noodles
Fresh tuna is best seared quickly over a high heat until just pink inside – cooking it for too long can dry it out.
Peppered beef and parsley salad
Using parsley as the main leaf adds a gentle flavour to this salad, and the mustard dressing works really well with the beef.
Zingy prawn platter
This is a refreshing, healthier revamp of a classic prawn cocktail. If you can’t get hold of grapefruit, oranges work just as well.
Ravioli with spinach, bacon and ricotta
If you make ahead and freeze, these Chinese ravioli are ready in minutes to serve with your favourite pasta sauce.
Pork dumpling soup
This is not an attempt at an 'authentic' anything; it’s just a tasty, filling meal that can be made ahead and assembled in minutes.
Chilli mushroom rice paper rolls
These rolls are simple in the extreme and perfect for a hot day – serve with your favourite dipping sauce or try the one below.
Almost butter chicken and vegetable pies
These tasty pastries have a hint of butter chicken about them but no actual butter. Or cream for that matter!
Tropical fruit strudels
These sweet, crispy dessert pastries are great on their own, with custard or a dollop of Greek yoghurt.
Spaghetti with chilli and garlic
A version of a simple, classic Italian recipe. This makes a satisfying meal served with a mixed salad.
Tomato sauce
Once you have mastered this basic recipe, you can vary the sauce with the addition of different herbs and vegetables.
Lasagne
This dish can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge, covered, until required. Remember to bring it to room temperature before cooking.
HFG carrot cake
We think this version of the classic fat-laden carrot cake is up there with the best!
Rosemary chicken Greek salad
Adding chicken to this popular salad turns it into a substantial meal for a warm, summer night.
Roast tomato and ricotta frittata
You can relax and catch up with the family while the frittata is cooking.
Mexican bean soup with tortillas
A hearty soup that’s also versatile: good additions include carrots, chilli, rice, corn and minced beef.
Soy beef and noodle stir-fry
Reduce the amount of soy and oyster sauces further if high sodium is a problem for you.
Old-fashioned prawn cocktail
Here’s one for solo diners (or when the rest of the family wants sausages and you want a healthier meal).
Slow-roasted oil-free tomatoes
Low in kilojoules and intensely flavoured, serve with fish and red meat dishes, as well as vegetarian meals with goats' cheese or ricotta.
