We all know that it's the Roast Bird which tends to take centre stage at Christmas. But who are you kidding!?

It was the fight over the last of the roast potatoes that started the infamous Christmas Argument of 98. It was the insufficient portion of Pigs-in-blankets that Uncle Rufus still begrudges 5 years later. It’s the sides that people really remember because they are the dishes that you can have some fun with.

This Christmas why not try one of these Sumptuous Sides and help upstage your Roast Bird!  

What part of that title doesn’t sound great? Brown butter and sage is a classic example of a flavour being more than the sum of its parts - we’ve used it to great effect here with these golden beauties and offset the opulence with some orange zest. Truly the perfect potato.

Tired of Brussel Sprouts but can’t ignore tradition? How about sprout tops instead? Sautéed with cabbage and served with crisp bacon, toasted walnuts and an absolutely game-changing clove and tarragon butter - it’s a perfect alternative to your ordinary Sprouts.

Is there anything sadder than a boring, boiled carrot? We’ve roasted ours in sweet, tart marmalade, making for a caramelised carrot the stuff dreams are made of. A great twist on the classic combination of orange and carrots, the caraway seeds really set these off, taking them from side dish to main event.

Fancy something a little fresher? Using seasonal ingredients packed with vitamins, this colourful salad is a great alternative providing vibrancy and crunch to a sometimes overwhelmingly rich spread whilst still ensuring you get your stilton fix.

We’ve capitalised on the natural sweetness of our favourite squash and enhanced it with maple syrup and sage which is pure gold with butternut. Add crisp, caramelised walnuts for texture and you’ve got yourself a pretty perfect plate. It may be worth doubling or tripling your quantities for the walnuts - they’re beyond moreish!