Christmas make-ahead starter recipes
Take the stress off this Christmas meal with these make-ahead starters. Some you can plate up early and keep ready in the fridge, others just need last-minute reheating and garnishing. Fish and shellfish are natural choices, whether au naturel or made into pâté. Just remember to balance your choice with the main event – you don't want to spoil anyone's hunger.
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Chicory, blue cheese, pecan and cranberry salad
Rachel Allen's handy recipe is easily doubled or trebled for larger parties
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Beetroot Carpaccio Salad
Jewel-coloured beetroot is transformed with pine nuts, parmesan and some clever cutting
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Aubergine, feta and mint salad
Tamasin Day-Lewis's relaxed dish lends a Mediterranean flavour to the festive table
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Chevre and Quince Paste Crostini
Serve James Martin's tasty goat's cheese and membrillo toasts with a mixed leaf salad
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Coarse Pork and Herb Terrine
Rick Stein's superior terrine will see you right through the festive season
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Potted Crab
Wonderfully rich and delicious, Tamasin Day Lewis's recipe is one of the best ways of eating crab
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Salmon Marinated with Dill and Pernod
Chilled, thinly sliced fresh salmon with an aniseed kick – pure class
