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.

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

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 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

■ Serves 6 ■ Prep 20 mins ■ Cook 2 hrs 10 mins 1 tbsp olive oil750g lamb neck, cut into chunks4 carrots, cut into chunks1 red onion, cut into wedges400ml chicken stock, plus extrafor the couscous400g

SERVES 4 PREP 30 mins COOK 1 hr 20 mins EASY ❄ ragu 2 duck breasts, skin removed2 tbsp olive oil1 onion, finely chopped1 tsp fennel seeds2 garlic cloves1 bay leaf½ small pack parsley, leaves picked,st