When it comes to entertaining, few things are more important than serving delicious and impressive dishes that will wow your guests. And when it comes to Australian food writer and stylist Donna Hay, you can’t go wrong! With her signature flair for simple yet elegant presentation, Donna’s recipes are perfect for any occasion – from casual gatherings with friends to special celebrations.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 of Donna Hay’s most mouth-watering recipes that are sure to impress. From classic comfort foods like beef lasagna and homemade chicken pot pie, to international-inspired dishes like spicy Thai beef salad and zesty lemon tart, there’s something for everyone. And with a focus on fresh flavors, quality ingredients, and ease of preparation, these recipes are perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Lemon and Herb Roast Chicken
A classic roasted chicken gets a bright and zesty twist with the addition of lemon and herbs. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Garlic Prawn Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines succulent prawns with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 250g spaghetti
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove prawns from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
6. Combine reserved pasta water with the creamy sauce and stir until smooth.
7. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy garlic sauce.
8. Return prawns to the skillet and toss to combine.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Fudge Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and moist chocolate cake, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat; allow to cool slightly. Fold melted chocolate into cake batter.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices
Roasted Pumpkin and Feta Salad
Autumn’s flavors shine in this simple yet impressive salad, where roasted pumpkin meets crumbly feta and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted pumpkin, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and honey.
5. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Spicy Thai Beef Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Spicy Thai Beef Salad combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the savory taste of grilled beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Grill the beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Add the grilled beef, scallions, jalapeño pepper, and red bell pepper to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Divide the mixed greens among individual plates or bowls.
6. Spoon the beef mixture over the greens.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Beef Lasagna
Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
A timeless Italian classic, this beef lasagna recipe combines tender ground beef with rich tomato sauce and layers of creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy pasta shell. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese; cover with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Perfectly Fluffy Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of light, airy pancakes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This simple recipe yields a delicious batch of pancakes with a hint of sweetness and a tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter, warm
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks
Experience tender and flavorful lamb shanks with this simple slow-cooked recipe. Perfect for a comforting meal on a cold evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
6. Transfer the browned lamb shanks and cooked onion mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the broth and red wine (if using).
7. Cook on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Serve: With your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Zesty Lemon Tart
A refreshing twist on the classic tart, this zesty lemon version is perfect for springtime gatherings or a bright pick-me-up any time of year. With a flaky crust and tangy filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and sugar until well combined. Pour over center of pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle melted butter over filling. Brush egg wash around edges of crust to prevent burning.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crunchy Salt and Pepper Squid
A flavorful and addictive seafood dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. This crunchy squid recipe combines the tender texture of calamari with the satisfying crunch of crispy batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid tubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each squid piece into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered squid pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich Beef Bourguignon
This classic French stew, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion. With tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and a rich broth, this recipe will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to the pot; bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Fresh Mango and Avocado Salsa
This sweet and tangy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The combination of ripe mango and creamy avocado adds a unique twist to traditional salsas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this homemade chicken pot pie recipe combines tender chicken, flaky crust, and savory vegetables in a deliciously easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir until thickened.
4. Roll out one puff pastry sheet to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and top with another sheet of puff pastry.
5. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful Smoky BBQ Ribs! With a blend of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, these ribs are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended).
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the BBQ mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Refreshing Watermelon and Mint Salad
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing salad that combines sweet watermelon, cooling mint, and tangy lime juice. Perfect for a quick summer snack or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and chopped mint.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Add the honey and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Golden Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Golden Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
Get ready to savor a crispy, juicy, and indulgently flavorful fried chicken experience with this Golden Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. In a separate bowl, mix together flour and cornstarch.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe
This rich and decadent dessert is perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving. With its gooey center and crispy edges, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality dark or semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Melt chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
4. Whisk eggs into melted chocolate until smooth.
5. Add butter and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
6. Pour batter into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small cups.
7. Place ramekins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are still slightly jiggly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute.
10. Run a knife around the edges of each cake to release it; invert onto plates.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tangy Lime and Coconut Cheesecake
This creamy cheesecake gets a boost of citrusy flavor from tangy lime juice and the subtle sweetness of shredded coconut. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in lime juice and coconut.
5. Pour filling over crust and bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Savory Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish, this savory mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its creamy texture and earthy aroma, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using wine, add it after 20 minutes of cooking. Continue cooking until rice is creamy and tender, about 30-40 minutes total.
6. Stir in butter; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic Pavlova with Fresh Berries
A show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, this classic pavlova is a masterpiece of texture and flavor, topped with a vibrant medley of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over egg mixture and gently fold until no streaks remain.
5. Gently spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Dot top with cold butter pieces.
7. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
8. Allow pavlova to cool completely on wire rack.
9. Top with fresh berries just before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 mouth-watering Donna Hay recipes perfect for entertaining. From classic comfort food like beef lasagna and chicken pot pie, to fresh and fruity salads like watermelon and mint, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Indulge in decadent desserts like chocolate fudge cake and cheesecake, or try your hand at savory dishes like lamb shanks and mushroom risotto. With Donna Hay’s expert guidance, you’ll be whipping up a feast fit for friends and family in no time.
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