This simple recipe creates the perfect addition for the frontline of your fridge and can add a kick to a range of different dishes. Experiment with what vegetables you add over and above the chilli and garlic and see what flavours work for you - or what needs saving! The length of time needed for the ferment can be longer if the room temperature is colder.

This recipe is great for using up soft fruit past its best, but not when it’s gone so far that it has reached the mouldy stage! This fruit jam is more like a compote than a normal jam and needs to be eaten within a few days. It's quick to make and is lovely served with scones, on toast, mixed into yogurt or spooned onto ice cream.

Impress your friends with this easier-than-it-looks class act dessert from top chef Tom Kitchin.

An exotic winter warmer, this tagine is a fabulous twist for festive leftovers.

Pretty much any leftover veggies can be added to this curry, and it's also great for reheating for lunch the next day.

Paella is a great vehicle for using up any leftover cooked meat or sausage that you’ve got in your fridge.

Italian-style breadcrumbs, flavoured with herbs, garlic and lemon zest. Use generously to add a dash of texture and a pop of flavour to anything from pasta, soups, risotto and salads. Just sprinkle a good helping on top.

A tasty way to use up those leftover sprouts at Christmas.

Crispy lamb cooked with store cupboard spices is a wonderful combination and is a delicious way to use up any minced lamb to create a quick and easy supper dish.

Children go wild for these burgers, keep them in the freezer for a last minute children’s tea - they can be cooked from frozen. You could also serve them as small meatballs with tomato sauce and spaghetti.