Party starters

Ravinder Bhogal’s mango chutney cheese straws

Photograph: Ola O Smit/The Guardian

There are few things more pleasing at a party than a cheese straw.

Meera Sodha’s kimchi and tofu dumplings with dipping sauce

Photograph: Louise Hagger/The Guardian

The whole family can help to make these – after all, Christmas is for sharing

---

Mighty mains

Meera Sodha’s giant mushroom and pearl barley ‘sausage’ roll

Photograph: Lizzie Mayson/The Guardian

Made with three of the best condiments on the planet – tomato ketchup, Marmite and Henderson’s relish

Meera Sodha’s spinach, walnut and tomato lasagne

Photograph: Issy Croker/The Guardian

This one’s a real Christmas cracker.

Meera Sodha’s whole roast cauliflower and nut pilaf

Photograph: Laura Edwards/The Guardian

Works both as a centrepiece and a showstopping side dish.

Anna Jones’ squash, winter herb and butterbean pie

Photograph: Louise Hagger/The Guardian

This flavourful winter pie hits all the right buttons.

---

A bit on the side

Meera Sodha’s red cabbage, apple and pomegranate salad

Photograph: Louise Hagger/The Guardian

A crisp and fresh winter salad that will go nicely with a nut roast.

Anna Jones’ lemon zest roast potatoes

Photograph: Matt Russell/The Guardian

Crisp and golden, with a brightening kick of lemon and coriander seed.

---

Happy ending

Georgina Hayden’s chocolate and clementine cassata semifreddo

Photograph: Matthew Hague/The Guardian

Keeps ready in the freezer to bring drama to your Christmas table.