The lull between Christmas and New Year is the perfect time to slow down and keep things simple in the kitchen. These comforting, budget-friendly ideas make the most of what you already have at home.

This is the perfect time to clear out any cupboard clutter, but keep or buy these three essential pieces of kit to help you cook smarter and waste less this year. 1 ‘GRATE’ SUCCESS A good-quality fine

Once the feasting ceases, and you’re craving something fresher and healthier, you can transform Christmas leftovers into nutritious and budget-friendly meals with ease using a few clever tweaks. 1 SOU

Once you’ve made the creamy leek sauce for the pie, you can add any cooked meat you fancy or cooked mushrooms and squash for a veggie version. ■ Serves 4 ■ Prep 10 mins ■ Cook 50 mins 300g cooked chic

Hosting at Christmas and New Year doesn’t have to mean spending big on booze. With a few smart swaps and clever pours, you can keep everyone’s glasses full without breaking the bank. 1 GO OWN-BRAND Th

Get the new year off to a good start by opting for nourishing food on a budget