This impressive plan-ahead Christmas lunch from Flora Shedden is a mouthwatering mix of traditional recipes and deliciously unexpected flavours

It’s time to shine in the kitchen with our delicious, make-ahead recipes

PHOTOGRAPHY ISSY CROKER Brilliant celebrity chef Paul Ainsworth ...

A crowd-pleasing pie with a rich, buttery filling. Sage leaves are baked into the pastry while the beetroot adds vibrant colour. SERVES 8 PREP 30 mins plus40 mins chilling COOK 1 hr 30 mins MORE EFFOR

This is easy to knock together for a weeknight dinner, but also smart enough for any last-minute guests. SERVES 4-6 PREP 15 mins COOK 45 mins EASY ❄ 50g dried breadcrumbs 100g feta in brine 400g lamb

Sweet, rich PX sherry and dried figs give this ham a beautiful finish. SERVES 8 | PREP 30 MINS PLUS SOAKING | COOK 2 HRS 30 MINS | EASY 2 dried figs75ml pedro ximénez sherry2kg gammon joint1 thyme spr