JR: How often do you have guests over for dinner?
DH: Some weeks there’ll be an extra head at the table nearly every night, other weeks it’s just family. Usually by the end of the month I’ve hosted a full range of events: brunch, barbecues, a full three-course affair, a lap dinner in front of the TV…

JR: Do your friends often invite themselves?
DH: Not really. People think because I cook for a living, I don’t want to cook at home, but that’s not true. Cooking food for friends is very rewarding, so I’m the one doing the inviting.

JR: Do you plan weekly menus ahead of time or do you pull together your menus on a whim?
DH: I don’t plan ahead because I never know what I’ll feel like. I do like to have a well-stocked fridge and pantry so when I decide what I’m going to cook I’m not doing a mad dash to the shops.

JR: Do you ever make dishes and freeze them?
DH: No. With the right fresh ingredients I think it’s just as easy—and more delicious—to make something from scratch.

JR: Is there a formula you use to create your menus (i.e. one meat, one starch, two vegetables)?
DH: No, I mix it up depending on the dish, the time of year and the time of day…I think rules like that are too limiting.

JR: Do you prefer to plate each person’s meal or serve on larger platters?
DH: I do both. Some dishes are made to be individually-plated but presenting food on large platters looks great too and makes serving so much easier.

JR: Do you serve dessert every night?
DH: No, but when I do it’s usually something fruit-based. I’m a big fan of stone fruit baked in the oven or caramelized in a frying pan with brown sugar and butter. But when I have people for dinner I always have dessert because for most people it’s a real treat.

JR: Do your children like to cook with you?
DH: All the time. Angus, my nearly-four-year-old, cracks eggs, rolls pastry and tops pizzas. He loves it.

JR: What meal or ingredient do they ask for most often?
DH: Like all kids, mine go through phases. One week all they’ll want is spaghetti bolognaise, the next week they’re obsessed with white food or something exotic like nori rolls. It can be a challenge to get them to try new foods but perseverance is key.

Canadian Family is pleased to bring you the following exclusive Instant Entertaining recipes from Donna Hay. Try one or all eight with your friends and family and have fun this holiday season!