One is always looking for recipes with a difference but are still affordable and painless to prepare. I served this fail-proof menu at home to rave reviews. It was easy for me because everything (except the salad) could be pre-prepared the day before leaving me free to relax and to focus on my guests.

We started with Snoek Paté accompanied by Parmesan Melba toast made from day-old ciabatta bread. Pork steaks are affordable and quite divine served in an aromatic apple and masala sauce. I made our Lentil Rice to serve on the side to soak up the delicious gravy.

The bright minty tomato and red onion salad gives a touch of freshness, and who can resist a delicious homemade ice cream flavoured with real rum and seedless raisins?