This prawns in tomato and artichoke sauce is a simple—optionally quick—dish from the South of France near to the Italian border, and the culinary influences of both countries are evident. The flavour of sun-drenched tomatoes and red peppers shine through, both in the main seafood dish and side dish of pan roasted vegetables. A perfect lighter meal for warmer weather.

8 best side dishes for warm weather.A collection of delicious and less obvious side dishes originally created for specific recipes. But, they all share being able to work with a far wider range of dishes. Some are classics, others a little more leftfield and many are a good way to stop leftovers from going to waste. Issue no.1 of what I hope to be an occasional series and focuses on side dishes that work well in warmer weather. So, ideal for those who live in hot places or a

Bacon and seafood pie is a dish that's perfect for spring, unexpectedly inspired by Kylie Minogue Signature Rosé. Easy, filling and refreshing, my annual riff on the supposedly British institution of fish pie. This year's version includes Italian and Asian Flavours. Spring remains its guiding palate.

Vegetarian mushroom and courgette pasanda with spiced carrots and peas (gajar matar), garlic bread and corn on the cob

A reworking of poussin and a scaled-back walnut and spinach lasagne side dish from Northern Italy with contemporary fusion twists