We've all been there - you've mastered the turkey, perfected the stuffing and are feeling confident that this year the cranberry sauce will be the best ever. You've even got the alcohol-fruit ratio in the Christmas pudding nailed to ensure that it delivers the punch needed to prod difficult relatives into feeling those tidings of yuletide cheer.

Your one area of weakness? What to serve instead of yet another pile of soggy brussels sprouts or carrot coins. You need some side dishes that sparkle.

I think that we have probably all eaten enough boiled vegetables for a lifetime. Vegetables taste so much better when they are gently roasted or braised and coaxed into submission rather than ruthlessly boiled.

The following recipes are some easy but delicious side dishes that are sure to bring a little colour and flavour to your Christmas table and have you seeing empty bowls and plates.