Entertaining where you don’t spend the whole night in the kitchen? Yes please.

Dinner parties always seem like a good idea at the time. Then, two hours before guests arrive you’re still defrosting the bird under the running tap. Here’s our pick on what to cook friends when you actually want to be there to soak up the praise.

The Starter

A simple starter with an impressive kick of flavour lets everyone know they’re in for a treat. Drinks writer Mike Bennie says, “Don’t go overboard trying to impress your friends here, these dishes are best with wines that are effortless to drink; try not to overburden your glass with anything heavy or too complex.”

Drink match: Crisp, dry beer (try Kirin Lager)

The Main

Julia Child basically made her career on the back of this slow-cooked, rich beef and red wine dish studded with leeks and carrots, it’s guaranteed to impress. Put in on hours before guest arrive and save a glass of red for the cook.

Drink match: Rustic, savoury sangiovese (try Bibi Graetz Casamatta Rosso)

The Dessert

Everyone crumbles at the sight of these sweet and tart little numbers. We love the clever shortcut: The crumble is literally shortbread biscuits pulsed a few times in the food processor.

Drink match: Really sticky wine (try Valdespino Yellow Label Pedro Ximinez)