Oysters Kilpatrick are a summer classic, and they're certainly making a killer comeback.

Make the most of puff pastry with this retro entertaining recipe.

This retro recipe is back and better than ever. Wallpaper printed by Pickawall.

Salmon blinis are the OG, smash-hit starter, and should really be served at any occasion. Begin this recipe 1 day ahead.

This retro, bite-sized starter combines sweet, salty and savoury in the most beautiful way.

“Chilli pineapple is a classic beach snack in Durban. Here, the sweet pineapple provides a little reprieve from the fiery chicken wings – making a perfect snack to eat while standing around the braai before the main event.” – Warren Mendes

Melon and mozz may not seem like a common combo, but trust us, it's a match made in heaven.

“When outside temperatures rise and thirsts call for quenching with something a little more interesting than the workaday gin and tonic, a Pimm’s Cup is in order. The basic recipe is simple, but the garnishes and flavourings used in modern Pimm’s Cup presentations vary wildly.” Recipe from Signature Cocktails by Amanda Schuster.

"Eggnog is synonymous with Christmas in America. Apparently, George Washington used to make his own and was adamant that you should let it rest for a few days to intensify its flavour. I personally love eggnog, on its own, as a latte or in this case as a gingerbread cocktail. Since eggnog is not readily available in the UK, I’ve included a recipe on how to make it." This is an edited extract from The Book of Gingerbread by Helena Garcia, published by Quadrille. Available in stores nationally, RRP $34.99. Photography by Patricia Niven.