The ultimate dilemma of Christmas lunch: to continue with family traditions or time for a change. Whether you choose to stick with tradition but add a modern twist or try something completely new here are a few ideas:
Bruschetta
Add a touch of Italian with a selection of Bruschetta to tempt the taste buds in anticipation of the main event. Lightly toast some diagonally cut French baguette, brush with a little olive oil and add a selection of your favourite toppings. Some of our favourites include: fresh tomatoes chopped with basil and capers, goats cheese and caramelised walnuts, crispy bacon lardons and sliced apple, smoked salmon and horseradish sauce.
Citrus Salad
For a fresh yet festive starter, peel and segment a clementine, in a large bowl add several handfuls of fresh watercress and rocket leaves and a little lambs lettuce, chunks of feta cheese and half of a very sliced red onion. Dress with the juice of a lemon and Clementine, a little fresh mint and add a generous handful of roasted pine nuts.
Prawn Cocktail
Classics are classics for a reason, embrace the retro vibe this Christmas with a classic prawn cocktail. Line individual glass dishes with roughly shredded lettuce leaves and sprinkle with cubes of finely diced cucumber, toss the freshly cooked and peeled prawns in lemon juice before adding to the dishes. For the dressing, mix equal parts mayonnaise and tomato chutney, stir in a teaspoon of Worcestershire, horseradish and Tabasco source, add lemon juice and pepper to taste and stir well. Garnish with finely chopped chives.