Pomegranate and Fennel Elixir

Scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam are a typical afternoon tea treat. Here, we’ve given the idea a savoury-sweet twist and some added protein with this riff on a Brazilian-style cheese bun. The airy centres, like those of a cream puff, are perfect for filling with fresh strawberries macerated in balsamic and maple syrup and finished with a touch of vanilla yogurt. The light, textured buns are made with tapioca starch, so they’re suitable for those looking for gluten- or grain-free options, but everyone will enjoy the thyme and Parmesan flavour that makes a savoury complement to the sweet filling. A tiny poke of the bun Piercing cheese buns with a pin when they come out of the oven helps them crisp up by letting steam escape. Use a clean meat thermometer or cake tester and pierce the bottom of each bun.

These bites are a vegetarian spin on two items often included in an afternoon tea—cucumber sandwiches and smoked salmon. Thin ribbons of carrot are marinated in a smoky tamari-based dressing before being formed into curls and placed on cucumber rounds topped with a thick dill-flavoured yogurt. Straining the yogurt removes excess liquid and makes it thick and creamy. Cucumbers have numerous health benefits, including for hydration and digestion; eating them unpeeled maximizes their fibre contribution. Carrot curls To make a carrot curl, drain carrots from their marinade. With clean hands, wrap an individual ribbon around your forefinger. Make up curls in advance and hold them in dish or container with lid, so you can place them on cucumber and yogurt rounds quickly, just before serving. Vegan version To make a vegan version of this dish, substitute your favourite cashew cream cheese in place of yogurt.

In springtime, there are plenty of reasons to host a lunch party. Spring garden vegetables are beginning to peak. The days are getting longer. And having good friends to lunch is as good a reason as any other—especially after a few years of lockdown. If you’re a little rusty or you’re new to hosting friends for lunch, then we have some tested and true recipes that’ll ignite your imagination. Plus, each provides variations depending on your dietary needs or preferences. The trick to hosting is not to overcomplicate your menu with too many sides. In our feature is a list of helpful tips that’ll keep you focused. From ambience and décor to food prep tips, we’ve got you covered. While sipping, laughing, and eating together will lift your spirits after seasons of restraint, these recipes will wow the tastebuds.

If you’re looking for a bit of nostalgia, you’re in luck: the Cosmo (a.k.a. the Cosmopolitan cocktail) is making a comeback. Although the origin story is a little fuzzy, with a number of versions claiming its invention back in the ’70s or ’80s, the Cosmo is worth reviving in this new version of fruity splendour. Want to jazz up your Cosmos? Freeze martini glasses so they’re good and frosty. Serve Cosmos topped with sparkling wine, sparkling rosé, or even a nice dry Champagne.