Toast, soup, a bake, a biscuit… When the days are dark and cold, you want simple recipes with a nod to nostalgia and childhood comforts, but with flavours that feel right for now

Enjoy a relaxed weekend feast with these delicious dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, and simply warmed up when you’re ready to serve

Try these prep-ahead party favourites for delicious yet almost effortless entertaining!

Get ready to impress your party guests with these tasty nibbles. Perfect with fizz!

■ Serves 6 ■ Prep 15 mins ■ Cook 40 mins 1kg Bramley apples, peeled½ lemon, juiced175g golden caster sugar¼ tsp ground cinnamoncustard or ice cream, to serveFOR THE CRUMBLE350g plain flour175g salted

Fermented foods needn’t get you in a pickle, thanks to James Cooper & Natalie Preston’s tasty recipes