With the festive season in full swing, weekly routines often fly out the window. Whether it’s afterwork drinks that get you home later than normal, or a long Christmas lunch that leaves you not hungry at dinner time but peckish come 8pm, it’s not uncommon for takeaways to become the go to last minute meal. But, at an already expensive time, this can be an unwanted extra cost, and also adds to the calorie count during this decadent month.

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So, with that said, here are our top tips for keeping on top of your home cooking routines during Christmas.

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1. Think ahead and utilise those frozen leftovers

Now’s the time to make the most of all those extra bits you have in the freezer. Just make sure you think ahead a little and grab it out of the freezer before you leave the house in the morning so it’s defrosted and ready to go when you get home. The fact that it’s thawed and now needs to be eaten can be just enough incentive to prevent you from stopping at the takeaway shop on the way home if the notion takes you.

2. Three words: Eggs, bacon and ham

When you get home late but you’re feeling peckish, an omelette is a great go to. Simple, quick and made extra special with just the addition of New Zealand bacon or ham.

3. Fakeaways made easy

If takeaways are really on your mind, then try some of our favourite made at home versions here. Our top tip, make a double batch and you’ll have freezer ready portions of fakeaways at your fingertips.

4. Have a few quick go-to recipes up your sleeve

Here are our favourite fast dinner options that make the most of basic ingredients:

Scrummy Spaghetti

A recipe with just five ingredients, yes please! This is the ultimate throw together meal from your pantry

Pork Pita Pizza

Use this recipe as a starting point and these mini pizzas can be made with whatever you have in the cupboard

Tex Mex Toastie

 Just a little different to a your usual toastie and perfect for a quick late night meal.