Cocktail food

Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least an hour to prevent scorching during cooking. Yoghurt, cream or milk can be used instead of the buttermilk. Note

Soak 10 bamboo skewers in cold water for an hour before use to prevent them splintering or scorching during cooking. Note

Using slightly under-ripe plums gives them a higher pectin level, which helps the paste to set. Note

A fantastic miso garlic dip for Japanese-style dinner parties or sharing platters.

Wonderfully fresh and light, enjoy these beautiful salmon sashimi stacks as a light lunch, starter on canape.

Use a soft creamy blue cheese for the blue cheese mousse. The mousse can be made a day ahead and kept, covered, in the fridge. It’s best to cook the beef as close to serving time as possible. Note

A charmingly simple way to decorate and serve delicious fresh strawberries - either as a simple treat on their own or with ice-cream for a more substantial dessert.

Cake pops will keep for up to a week. Note

We used corn kernels from 2 large fresh corn cobs in this recipe, but you can use frozen (then thawed) kernels or well-drained canned kernels. Roast your own capsicum under the griller, or in the oven until the skin blisters and blackens, cover, cool, then remove skin before using. Or, buy roasted capsicum from a […]

Bread can be toasted 2 hours ahead; store in an airtight container. Pumpkin can be cooked 1 hour ahead. Note

Pizza fingers can be prepared the day before; put the toppings on, then cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Bake when ready to eat. Note

Rose, violet, nasturtium and pansy petals are all edible and make beautiful additions to recipes. Note

These delicious little Asian-style morsels are perfect tapas or cocktail food.

For a healthier option, use olive-oil spray instead of butter for pastry sheets. School prawns (shrimp) can also be used, or try crab or lobster meat. Note

Potted prawns can be made a day before the picnic, keep well-iced during transportation. Make crostini close to departure time. Note

Grand Marnier or Cointreau can be used for the orange-flavoured liqueur. Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Truffles, without cocoa coating, can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remove from freezer 1 hour before serving and dusting with cocoa. Note

Delicious and flavour-packed Asian-style dumplings with a spicy dressing.

Mini lamb and mint skewers are a delicious and pretty addition to any platter.

The perfect Asian starter dish; homemade spring rolls.

Spanish-style spiced meatballs with a romesco sauce; a great tapas dish or sharing platter.