Kitchen creativity

Next time you're on the way home from work and think there's nothing in the fridge, think again. It's easy to make something delicious from ingredients you probably already have at home.

Let me show you some simple recipes to make the most of ingredients that are found in most fridges and food cupboards. I've also got some handy hints and tips to bring out your creativity in the kitchen.

For a refreshing pick-me-up, I find you can't beat a smoothie. For a strawberry flavoured hit, I take about 10 washed strawberries, one small tub of yoghurt, half a pint of semi-skimmed milk and a pinch of granulated sugar. Then I whizz everything together except the milk. When the mixture is smooth, add in the milk gradually until blended in.

Instant pasta sauces make meals in minutes, but I often like to add my own twist to classic flavours. Chop some bacon into small cubes, fry and add to a tomato sauce for extra taste. Add in more fresh herbs or chilli to taste or use a pasta sauce to bake something like chicken or salmon in.

Lime and lemon go with most things. I like to squeeze some over meat before the oven, or even into a sauce to wake up the flavour and give extra bite.

For when you feel you need a detox, try a 'cold carrot rush' drink. Blend 3 peeled and chopped carrots, 2 peeled and chopped apples and a peeled orange together until smooth. Add ice and enjoy.

Risotto is one of my favourites. I always keep Arborio or Carnaroli rice handy as well as stock and some vegetables to whip up a simple yet impressive dish.