Prima ’s homes and food editor, Bella Evennett-Watts, shares her top advice and insider tips for this month

Elevate al desko lunches with these tips from pro chefs…

Pearl barley creates robust, nutty texture and, while it takes longer to cook than rice, it’s worth the effort. Dairy adds richness – we’ve gone for a triple hit with brown butter, mascarpone and goat

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

Rise and shine with a traditional Irish breakfast, from marmalade cake and banana muffins to waffles and wheaten farls

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