Christmas starter recipes

A hit of vodka gives this classic a new edge. Serve with a shot of vodka for full effect

Impress guests with our creamy cauliflower cheese rolls. These easy canapés are wrapped in crunchy filo pastry and topped with sesame seeds

A smooth and creamy winter soup, topped with crispy bacon pieces - serve with crusty bread for a filling and warming lunch

A smart veggie starter that will impress even the biggest foodie at your dinner table

Top toasted sourdough with goat's cheese, honey-roasted pears and walnuts to make these tasty tartines. They take just two minutes to prep and deliver one of your 5-a-day

Make this cured salmon and prawn dish as a classy starter for a dinner party. It takes a few days of prep, but it’s well worth it for the flavour that you get

This low-fat, easy pâté is a perfect vegetarian starter

These non-scary, freezer-friendly soufflés can be baked ahead, then reheated in the oven before serving

This smooth duck liver parfait with a hint of Grand Marnier and Morello cherry jam can be made ahead, ready for a dinner party. Serve on toast as a starter or canapé

Whet the appetite for the main event by serving guests this special chicken terrine with leeks and apricots. It can be made up to three days ahead

Great British Bake Off's Kimberley Wilson has created this stunning celebration bread with individually filled buns and a melting cheese middle – made for sharing

Drizzle apple and horseradish dressing over oysters for a sophisticated seafood starter to share. Serve on a bed of ice or rock salt with sprigs of dill

Serve this halloumi, carrot, orange and watercress salad with a mustard and honey dressing for an easy lunch or starter. It takes just 20 minutes to make and delivers one of your 5-a-day

Christmas is the perfect excuse to cook venison. Serve with sprout and apple slaw as a dinner party starter or festive light lunch to treat your guests

Give brunch a sophisticated twist with celeriac, comté cheese and crunchy pumpkin seed fritters topped with quail's eggs

This classic retro starter packed with juicy prawns will never go out of fashion

These vegetarian tartlets make great finger food for a festive drinks party

Rustle up this healthy vegan celeriac and hazelnut soup as a starter on Christmas Day. Truffle oil adds a bit of luxury, or leave it out for a simple supper on a winter's night

This decadent bake from Paul Hollywood combines slightly sweet French bread with a creamy ham and cheese filling

Curing your own salmon is well worth it for taste and wow-factor. Serve this beetroot and berries version as a starter or on crackers as a canapé

If you're looking for a Christmas classic with a twist, this French ham hock and pistachio terrine, transformed into a modern make-ahead starter is for you

Make these salmon, buckwheat and spelt chrain blinis ahead and heat them up as a hassle-free party canapé or plated as a starter. They freeze really well, too

Use good-quality chickpeas to give this vegan hummus a really silky feel. Dips make perfect, easy party food to serve with crudités and warm pittas

Try these colourful vegan spring rolls as canapés for a party, vibrant with fresh veg and juicy mango. Serve with a sweet chilli dipping sauce