Spinach

You could use tahini (sesame seed paste) instead of grinding the toasted sesame seeds. Beans or watercress can be used instead of spinach in this salad, and peanuts or macadamia nuts could be substituted for the sesame seeds. If you like, you can sprinkle the cooked spinach with smoked dried bonito flakes. Note

A quick, healthy and simple Asian-style stir-fry of chicken and spinach noodles.

Any kind of dried beans can be substituted for canned beans, if preferred. Soak beans overnight. Boil until tender; drain. Use patience when spreading polenta into prepared pan; it tends to move and slip but can eventually be worked into corners of pan. Polenta can be made 1 day ahead to the refrigeration stage. Note

Plain (un-crumbed) chicken breast schnitzels are available from most supermarkets and some butchers and chicken shops. Chicken rolls can be prepared several hours ahead. Serve chicken rolls with salad or vegetables of your choice. Keep covered in the refrigerator and cook as required. Note

A healthy spinach and haloumi salad with packed full of scrumptious flavours and textures.

Use a lemon zester to make lemon rind strips for decoration; soak them in iced water to make them curl. Note

There's nothing more rewarding than making your own pizza dough like a true Italian.