Fast & thrifty dinners

For a smoother finish, fish out the chorizo after step 1, blend the potato base, then return the chorizo when you add the kale. ■ Serves 6 ■ Prep 15 mins ■ Cook 30 mins 3 tbsp olive oil2 onions, finel

In the hands of Christina Kynigos, getting more of the good stuff into your diet is light work

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

You’ll only need 20 minutes (or less) to cook these meals from Alex Hughes – better still, portions come in at under 600 calories

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 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