Stellar Kitchen, Glass Measuring Jug

Fragranced with cinnamon and star anise, poached pears make an elegant dinner party dessert that can be prepared in advance. Serve warm with vanilla custard or ice cream. Alternatively, slice thinly and serve with crumbled Stilton and dressed salad leaves as a light lunch. Any leftovers are perfect with granola and a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast

Shellfish is a luxury ingredient. Using leftover shells to make stock is a great way to ensure minimum waste. The shells and legs of langoustines (as well as lobster, prawns and crab) impart a rich flavour to the stock which can then be used to make soup, seafood risotto or paella.