Blender

Ditch the store-bought version that is often laden with preservatives and sugars, and go for this delicious homemade version of everyone's favourite spread.

This soup is great for lunch at the office or for a picnic. If a microwave is not available for reheating the soup, pack it in a preheated insulated flask. Note

Garlic wedges can be made a week ahead. Note

You will need 2 large pink grapefruit for this recipe. You can also freeze the granita mixture in an ice-cream machine following the manufacturer’s instructions. Note

Fresh lychees can be substituted for canned ones if you like. You can use pineapple and pineapple juice instead of lychees for a different flavour. This sauce also goes well with fried tofu, grilled chicken breasts or steamed greens. Note

This cocktail should be made with the best bourbon you can buy. Use a 300ml highball glass. Note

Farfalle is a short, rather sturdy butterfly-shaped pasta that is also known as “bow-ties”. It is good for a dish such as this because the folds and crinkles of each piece help capture the pesto and hold the other ingredients. Replace the farfalle with penne or small shells if you wish. Note