Savour & sparkle

Now is the perfect time to prepare for the feasting ahead with these treats bursting with seasonal flavours

Whether it’s festive nibbles with the neighbours or a full-scale NYE party, these drinks and canapés are sure to please all

They all started out on different paths – from sales offices to science labs – but each of these professional bakers found purpose and joy in baking. Here, they tell Jill Foster why it has become a passion that continues to nourish their souls

By The Happy Pear (thehappypear.ie) Serves 6-8 | Prep 15 mins | Cook 20 mins 1 sheet of shop-bought puff pastry, such as Jus Rol4 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Lovely Basil Pesto2 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Sun-dr

Ingredients (Serves 4) 125 g sweet potatoes1 small parsnip1 small onionSmall chicken breast filletSalt and black pepper1-2 tsp olive oil35 g baby spinach15 g rocket1 tomato1 tbsp olive oil½ tsp balsam

By Charlie Tomlinson (wildroot.kitchen) Serves 6 | Prep 25 mins plus chilling | Cook 50 mins FOR THE FILLING 1 tbsp olive oil1 onion, diced4 garlic cloves, crushed10g fresh sage, finely chopped2 sprig