While the next few weeks have the potential to be crazy busy as we all count down to a Christmas break (for those lucky to get one), it is good to make some time for yourself.
Whether that is sitting down with a coffee and a book, going for a run or pottering in the garden, it all helps to get us through.
For me, it is getting out my cookbooks and working out what goodies to bake for Christmas gifting or what dessert I’m going to make for Christmas Day.
Finding an afternoon to spend in the kitchen, Christmas music blazing, is a lovely way to take time out.
So this year I could not resist MasterChef Back to Win star Emelia Jackon’s new book Some of My Best Friends are Cookies. Her glazed gingerbread cookies are so pretty and her fruit meringue clouds so colourful they will make perfect Christmas gifts.
I’m also a sucker for a new twist on Christmas desserts, so could not resist Gareth Whitton and Catherine Way’s eggnog and fruit mince tart, nor Christall Lowe’s brown sugar pavlova, or Olivia Moore’s maple pecan pie with cherries and rye.
I still can’t decide.
But I’m aware Christmas dinner needs to be a little more balanced so we have not forgotten some inspiration for the rest of the Christmas meal - including ideas for the perfect cheese platter.
Alison Lambert has created a yummy Christmas menu that will not break the bank, while Jo Elwin has come up with some snazzy vegetable sides inspired by her favourite restaurant for Christmas dining.
This year our wine columnist Mark Henderson takes a look at the history of the Australian shiraz and its perfect suitability for your Christmas barbecue, I’d also suggest a bottle of Barossa sparkling shiraz for a nice change at Christmas dinner.
But Christmas inspiration does not stop here. Fresh will continue to have plenty of seasonal dishes and food gifting ideas in the coming weeks.
Have a very happy - and not too stressful - run-up to Christmas.
Rebecca Fox
Lifestyle editor
