Date-Night Delicacies

Plump tortellini, a rich tomato broth, and a swirl of cream: this is the sort of soup that deserves a proper seat at the table. Onion, celery, and sweet yellow pepper build the savoury base, while chilli flakes bring a little fire and spinach keeps every spoonful colourful. The creamy broth gathers around the filled pasta like a generous sauce, making each bowl feel especially comforting. Bring out the good bowls for date night, or make an ordinary evening taste a little more special.

Crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, and golden pita chips make this fattoush a salad with plenty to say. Radishes bring a peppery bite, while parsley and mint keep everything fresh and fragrant. The sumac and pomegranate molasses dressing is bright, tangy, and just sweet enough to pull it all together. I add the pita chips at the very last moment, because that crunch deserves its moment.

These fresh rice paper rolls wrap glazed tofu, crisp cucumber, carrots, and fragrant coriander into soft, chewy little parcels. Every bite has a fresh crunch, followed by the creamy heat of peanut, hoisin, and chilli sauce. I add a small drizzle inside and keep the rest for generous dipping. Set out the fillings, roll a few, and make lunch a little more hands-on.

Soft milk-dough bao filled with sticky hoisin tofu and fresh cucumber. Makes 10 small buns, with both rises included in the timing.