Six quick-cook options and soothing face packs for a stress-free Christmas

THE STRESS of organising Christmas can really take its toll, with all the preparations causing a lot of anxiety, culminating in having to cook “the big dinner”.

So we tested quick-cook alternatives for the festive dinner that can be on the table within 45 minutes.

And tried out soothing face packs for all that time you have clawed back.

HEALTH

With Jane Atkinson

Meat-free

Vegan roast is a great alternative to turkey and, at 273 calories per 100g, it is a healthy option.

The texture is satisfyingly good, it is tasty and is far from rubbery like some brands can be.

If you want to go meat-free, it is my go-to option with a cook time of 45 minutes.

• V-BITES meat-free turkey roast, available at from £4.89

Duck

Gressingham Duck’s Bistro range is a great alternative to turkey and cooks in just 30 minutes.

I recommend the duck a l’orange, which some might see as a Seventies dish, but it is having a revival.

The duck legs in cherry hoisin sauce were also divine with pancake wraps and cucumber.

• Available at  from £4.50

Veggie range

Beat the time-consuming prep with honey glazed parsnips (152 calories per 100g portion), roast potatoes (97 calories per 100g portion) and more.

They are all cooked in under 30 minutes.