Asda Magazine - Spring 2025

step

spRIng Into

From sweet treats to savoury showstoppers, we have everything you need for the perfect seasonal celebration

F ee D 4 F o R £25 Quick and tasty Monday-toFriday meals, thanks to Joe Wicks

Love you R L e F tove R s

Make the most of your bank holiday roast with our ‘use-em-up’ recipes

Fun F o R a LL the F a MILy Keep the kids entertained with our easy makes, bakes and activities

Mini donut nests, p56

heLLo

Get into the swing of spring

I don’t know about you, but this time of year is my favourite: lighter mornings and evenings, brighter days, and all the delicious ideas and ingredients that come with a new season. This issue we have something for everyone. If you’re looking for midweek meal inspiration on a budget, One Basket Five Meals with Joe Wicks on p18 will give you plenty of food for thought. Wondering what to bring to the table this Easter bank holiday? You’ll find ideas for a fantastic feast in our bumper seasonal special on p62, plus we’ll show you how to use up your leftovers so nothing goes to waste. And if you’re in need of activities for the school hols, the fun makes and bakes in our Magic Moments feature on p55 will keep the whole family entertained. Not to mention quick-assembly suppers, three game-changing gluten-free recipes, and a failsafe way to air-fry a beef roasting joint (yes, really!).

Jessica Bowman | Asda Magazine Editor | asdamagazineeditor@asda.uk

Editor’s picks…

Easter feasting

Bring everyone together with sumptuous dishes like this pesto- roasted leg of lamb on p68

Free-from treats

Find out why Asda customer, Sally, loves this sweet and citrussy shortbread on p44

Colour crush

Pep up your space with our vibrant and irresistible new range of fun home ideas on p114

What’s inside

WIn £250!

Take our READER SURVEY on p103 * and tell us what you think about our mag. You could win a £250 Asda gift card

33 MEALS IN MINUTES

Cut-out-and-keep recipe cards to help you cook up a storm

35 LUNCH O ’ CLOCK

Bag yourself some new-to-store goodies and try our family tips to keep busy over the Easter holidays

14 JUST TO SAY...

Our readers dish up their cooking pics and thoughts on the mag

Love to eat

Fuel up for the day ahead with these dishes to eat at home or al desko

40 RECIPE RESCUES NEW!

When a gluten-free reader asked for help in the kitchen, one Bake Off star rose to the occasion 37

Get

the look

Top fashion, home and beauty buys

96 THE EDIT

Our hottest new-season picks

98 ALL ABOARD

...for great prices with super-cute styles for the kids – at just £8 each!

104 LAID-BACK LUXE

George ’s day-to-night womenswear in collab with presenter, Kat Farmer

109 DAISY FRESH

Give your home a makeover with Stacey Solomon ’s spring collection

114 CANDY CRUSH

Colour in every corner of your home

GET IN TOUCH

asdamagazineeditor@asda.uk

Call Asda on 0800 952 0101

Write to the Editor: Asda Magazine, Asda House, South Bank, Great Wilson Street, Leeds LS11 5AD.

Feel good

Time to hit the ‘refresh’ button …

120 LIVE YOUR BEST… SPRING

You ’ll love our easy wellbeing wins

122 21 EASY WAYS TO ENTERTAIN THE KIDS

Get inspired, keep busy and have fun!

126 CHATTING WITH CHAMPIONS

Shining a light on the Asda Foundation

129 COMING NEXT ISSUE

A taste of what ’s to come this summer

130 WHAT’S ON MY PLATE

We catch up with one of the busiest in the biz – McFly singer and children ’s author, Tom Fletcher

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Cooked up any of our recipes? Enjoyed some of our fantastic products? Let us know and share your pictures – we’d love to hear from you.

The Asda Magazine team

Editors Jessica Bowman and Jessica Timms

Content Planner

Charlotte Woodhead

Content Co-ordinator

Natalie Graham

Editor Alex Drew

Creative Director

Sarah Birks

Food Editor Clare Knivett

Food Writer Sarah Cook

Senior Art Editor

Laura Phillips

Art Editor Kit Cheung

Chief Sub Editor

Katriel Costello

Writer/Sub Editor

Louisa Streeting

Managing Director

Clair Atkins

Senior Account Manager

Maria Rees

Account Executive

Leah Goldring

With t hanks to Lou Cassell, Linzi Pucino and Helen Richardson

Advertising enquiries: For advertising enquiries please email: magazine@asda-media.com

Asda Magazine is published by Our Media, in partnership with Asda. Print sourced by HH Associates. While every care is taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, the proprietors assume no responsibility in effects arising therefrom. No part of the contents may be reproduced without prior permission.

Asda Asda Asda Asda

Good to know

We love bringing you varied, balanced and great-value recipe ideas every issue. Here’s all the info you need…

Nutritional information

All our recipes are reviewed by a registered nutritionist and information is shown in a ‘traffic light’ label. Green is low, while red shows a high percentage of an adult’s recommended daily intake, and amber is somewhere in the middle. The recommended daily calorie intake is 2,000 for women and 2,500 for men. Our recipes should be enjoyed as part of a varied diet and active lifestyle. Per 359g serving contains

Live Better

At Asda, we like to make sure the healthiest option is the easiest choice for our customers, so we’ve introduced the Asda Live Better logo. It shows you the healthiest choices in Asda Own Brand.

Health and hygiene

For best practice and advice on food safety and hygiene, visit food.gov.uk and click on Food Hygiene at Home.

WAYS TO SHOP

IN STORE

Find your nearest Asda at storelocator.asda. com

SCAN & GO

Contactless payment and less checkout time – use a scanner or smartphone

We’ve included other handy hints throughout the magazine to highlight ingredients and recipes with special features

Dietary info For recipes to suit specific diets, look out for these circles, which refer to the whole dish.

Vegetarian

Vegan

Gluten-free

Dairy-free

Air fryer friendly

Lactose-free

Egg-free

Freezable

These icons exclude optional serving suggestions. Always check individual packet labels if cooking for someone with dietary needs or allergies.

5-a-day Shows how many portions of fruit and veg are in a recipe.

Budget savvy

We know the pennies are being pinched right now, so look out for recipes with a low price per serve and low cook times.

NEW! Family fave Tasty recipes with kidfriendly flavours that everyone will enjoy. of your 5-a-day u

HOME

DELIVERIES

Shop online and choose a home delivery slot.

CLICK & COLLECT

Shop online and pick up from one of over 450 UK locations.

Embrace the sun-drenched days ahead by bringing style and comfort into your outdoor oasis. Complete with a corner sofa, a dining table, and three stools, this stylish rattan set is the answer to all your al fresco hosting dreams Orlando Corner Sofa Dining Set, £499

A CRACKING SELECTION

Whether it ’s a playful character egg for a child, a free-from dream for your plant-based pal, or a classic milk chocolate egg for the whole family to share, there’s an edible gift out there to make everyone smile on Easter Sunday (20 April).

OMV! Hoppily Vegan Cherry Bakewell Easter Egg, £4.90/160g

Patch the Bunny Mini Chocolate Egg with Plush Toy, £5.24/55g

Asda Free From White Choc Easter Egg, £3.90/110g

3 HOT CROSS BUNNIES

This Easter, hop to the Asda Bakery aisle for our delightful range of cakes. From funfetti, frosting-topped squares to adorable Patch the Bunny-themed bakes, we’ve got something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Asda School Cake, £2.48/4-pack, Asda Mini Rolls, £2.75/5-pack, Asda Bunny Decorating Kit, £4.98/6-pack

Happily Vegan Cherry Bakewell Easter Egg, £3.06/100g; Patch the Bunny Mini Chocolate Egg with Plush Toy, £9.52/100g;

SPRINKLED WITH JOY

Call on your army of little helpers and get your bake on this Easter. They’ll love getting stuck in with these super-cute cupcake cases and edible decorations – watch their faces beam with pride as they present their yummy creations to the whole family.

Asda Easter Sprinkles Mix, £1.24/75g; Asda Cracking Chocolate Spread, £1.98/350g; Asda Easter Bunny Cupcake Toppers, £1.48/12-pack

ADVENTURE AWAITS 5

Level up your kids ’ gaming experience with Roblox eGift Cards. Fuel their imagination to personalise their avatar, access exclusive games, and unlock amazing perks. Plus, get a free virtual item with your gift card purchase. Roblox eGift Card, from £10

FREE-FROM DREAM

6 It ’s Allergy Awareness Week from 22 to 28 April, and whether you ’re gluten-free, lactose-free or nut intolerant, Asda stocks loads of great free-from products to suit your dietary needs.

to our new feature on page 40 for some delicious gluten-free recipes SCAN TO GRAB YOUR EGIFT CARD

FURRY FRIENDS

This April, spoil your beloved four-legged friends for National Pet Month! Find all the best brands to treat them, from Purina and Pedigree favourites to our

HOPPIN’ GOOD FUN

Transform family moments into creative adventures by painting adorable Easter decorations or designing one-of-a-kind cards. Visit your local Asda to see our full range of art supplies.

April is perfect for refreshing your exercise routine, so why not grab a motivating new kit? Our Gym Locker range is made from stretchy, supportive materials, to help you crush your fitness goals.

Gym Locker So Skin Blue Fitted T-Shirt (S–2XL), £15; Cycling Shorts (S–2XL), £14; Gym Locker So Power Animal Vest Top (S–3XL), £16; Leggings (S–2XL), £18

Tilly & Ted Kitten – Chicken with Salmon Delight, £6/950g; Tilly & Ted Adult – Chicken Dinner with Country Vegetables, £1.75/395g

Sun Catchers Kit, £1.50

Beautiful blooms

Our springtime bouquets are lovingly arranged with the sweetest selection of dusty pastels and vibrant yellows. Bring a bunch to Sunday lunch, or add a cheerful, seasonal flourish to your own home.

Asda Rainbow

Chrysanthemums , £ 5

Turn to p48 to see which of our Exceptional by Asda Easter eggs have been endorsed by the Good Housekeeping Institute.

Give your meals a Spanish twist by throwing diced smoked paprika chorizo to the mix (you’ll have some leftover from the paella dish on p33). Fry off in a pan to release its orange oils before adding to omelettes, scrambled eggs or carbonara. It’s a great addition to tarts and quiches, too. Asda Diced Chorizo Twin Pack, £2.49/130g

say… JUST TO

Proud of what’s

on your plate? Take a snap and send it in or simply get in touch to tell us what you love most about the mag

STAR LETTER

Leftovers legend

I made the West African root veg and peanut stew [September/ October 2024]; it was very straightforward and tasted great. I should mention that there are only two of us in the house, so leftovers are a dream for me. The next day, I blitzed the remaining veg and sauce into a purée, added some more vegetable stock, coconut milk, shredded chicken and spinach, and served it with warmed Asda flatbreads – it was a triumph!

On day three, I added some Asda King Prawns, noodles and coriander (plus a little more veg stock) to the remaining purée and served it with flatbreads again. Each day’s meal was different but had the same underlying warmth from the original stew. This is definitely something I will make again. I felt I really did need to contact you to say ‘well done’ on all the great food articles and recipes you produce every issue.

Jill, Barry Island

Missed an issue?

and want to cook one of the recipes featured on these pages? Find all of your Asda mags for free online at issuu.com.

I’ve just moved to an area where Asda is my nearest, biggest store. I saw your magazine and picked it up, wondering what I had missed. It’s very well set out, with great recipes, and I love One Basket Five Meals. Asda will be my go-to shop from now on.

Tina, Selsey

COOKING MADE SIMPLE

Growing up, I made food from scratch and had good cooking lessons at school. I despair that so many younger people haven’t been taught these skills, which makes budgeting so difficult. Your magazine is absolutely brilliant. The recipes are so cleverly devised and I’m sure they help lots of families cope better and enjoy lovely, quick and healthy meals. Thank you!

Lorraine, Oxford

First-class fakeaway

Your cheat’s tonkatsu with popcorn chicken recipe is a new favourite in our household and one of your best recipes to date. It’s so simple and quick to cook – ideal for busy weekdays – and as it largely uses store cupboard essentials, I never need to buy much for it. Just chicken, noodles and chillies. The result tastes just like a takeaway, without the cost. Lucy, Hertfordshire

Lucy snapped a pic of the cheat ’s tonkatsu with popcorn chicken she cooked from the September/ October 2024 issue of Asda mag

w

INSTA MAKES... What’s cooking? Post your dishes and tag #asdamagazine SHOUT OUTS!

We’re so glad to hear you loved this recipe as much as we do, Lucy! You should try our cheat’s chicken parmigiana on page 20 – a total crowd-pleaser that’s budgetfriendly and uses a handful of ingredients. And, better yet, we have more quick and easy recipes still to come in 2025.

, Asda Magazine editor

@gingerpop42

This brilliant baker turned back to our October 2023 issue to try these beautiful blackberry and oat cookies.

@changing_suits Our Asda Community Champions pictured with the Sept/Oct 2024 mag in our Swindon Hayden store.

I’d

like to congratulate you on such a great edition of your little magazine. The content was full of interesting articles and delicious recipes. I was soooo inspired – well done! Judith, Loch Lomond area

Get

in touch Fancy being featured in Asda Magazine? Send us pictures of the recipes you loved making or tell us which kitchen hack you found helpful. Tag @asda on or write to us at asdamagazineeditor@asda.uk.

@followmycookingjourney

…rustles up a batch of jammy buns from last year’s September/October issue.

FOR £11.96 on selected Easter eggs

The hunt for the perfect Easter egg for each member of the family is over. With our great offers, scoop up these chocco delights to suit all ages and personalities

Love to eat

Seasonal treats to help you start your spring in style

Exceptional by Asda Raspberry Ripple Hot Cross Buns, £1.43/4-pack

Exceptional by Asda Triple Chocolate Hot Cross Buns, £1.43/4-pack

Exceptional by Asda Tiramisu Hot Cross Buns, £1.43/4-pack

Hot cross fun!

Whether toasted and buttered or eaten as they come, the sweet taste of hot cross buns is a delicious sign that the new season is here. To celebrate, we’ve dreamt up a range of irresistible flavours from surprising tiramisu and raspberry ripple to triple chocolate. Whatever the flavour, they’ll all go well with a cuppa, so pop the kettle on!

youR shoppIng

6 Asda Breaded Chicken Steaks 115g pack Asda German Style Salami

6 eggs

LIst one BasKet FIve MeaLs joe WIcKs with

160g Leerdammer Original Grated Cheese

125g ball Asda Italian Light Mozzarella Cheese

6-pack Dina Wholemeal Pitta

395g tin Asda Taco Mixed Beans in a Spicy Tomato Sauce

410g tin Asda Baked Beans in a Rich Tomato Sauce

400g tin Asda Pinto Beans (or Red Kidney Beans) in Water

400g tin Asda Chopped Tomatoes

326g tin Asda Sweetcorn in Water (drained weight 260g)

500g jar Asda Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake sauce

2 x 145g tins Asda Skipjack Tuna Chunks in Spring Water, drained Cook by Asda Cajun Seasoning

500g bag Asda Long Grain White Rice

325g Asda Wholewheat Penne

300g tray Asda Sweet & Fruity Baby Plum Tomatoes

4-pack Asda British Fluffy & Golden Large Baking Potatoes

240g pack Just Essentials by Asda Green Beans

2-pack Asda Crisp & Crunchy Little Gem Lettuce

180g bag Asda Mild Tender Baby Spinach

1 bunch spring onions

1 onion

2 peppers – red, orange or a mixture

TOTAL BASKET PRICE UNDER £25

Your Monday-to-Friday meal plan is packed full of hacks that will make you a hero in your home

PHOTOGRAPHS MARTIN POOLE

JOE’S TIP

Not enough individual dishes? Use an A4-sized baking dish for the family instead.

MonDay

Barbecue baked eggs & beans

A super-quick, kid-friendly version of shakshuka that’s packed with protein. Don’t forget the pitta bread soldiers!

Serves 4 | V

1 out of 5 of your 5-a-day u

• 125g Asda Sweet & Fruity Baby Plum Tomatoes, quartered

• 395g tin Asda Taco Mixed Beans in a Spicy Tomato Sauce

• 410g tin Asda Baked Beans in a Rich Tomato Sauce

• 400g tin Asda Pinto or Red Kidney Beans in Water, drained and rinsed

• 3 tsp Cook by Asda Cajun Seasoning

• 4 eggs

• 40g Leerdammer Original Grated Cheese

• 6 Dina Wholemeal Pitta

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Use a mixing bowl to combine the fresh tomatoes, taco beans, baked beans, pinto or kidney beans and Cajun seasoning. Divide between 4 shallow, individual baking

dishes, then make a dip in the centre of each and crack in an egg. 2 Scatter the grated cheese over with some seasoning and bake for 13–15 mins or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. Pop the pittas into the oven for the final 2 mins to warm through, or toast, slice and serve with the beany eggs.

Per 404g serving contains

This

• 150g Asda Long Grain White Rice

• 4 Asda Breaded Chicken Steaks

• 150g Asda Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake sauce

• 125g Asda Italian Light Mozzarella Cheese, drained in a sieve and sliced

• 150g Just Essentials by Asda Green Beans, trimmed

• 3 spring onions, finely sliced

• 50g Asda Mild Tender Baby Spinach

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil, add a pinch of salt and the rice. Bring back to the boil then cover, reduce the heat and cook for 15 mins until the rice is ready. Leave the rice to drain in a sieve once cooked.

2 Meanwhile, space the chicken steaks on a baking tray. Bake for 12 mins in the oven. Spoon the tomato pasta sauce over each steak and top with the sliced cheese. Season and return

to the oven for another 15 mins until the cheese is browning.

3 Bring a small saucepan of water to the boil, add the green beans and cook for 3–4 mins until tender. Drain the beans and plunge into cold water for a minute. Drain again, then mix with the rice and spring onion; season to taste.

4 When the chicken is ready, toss the spinach through the rice and serve.

£1.45 PER SERVE

‘This went down a storm in our house. It’s rich, flavourful and totally comforting – perfect for weeknight cooking.’

Fajita fried rice with Cajun ‘croutons’chicken

Load up your plate with this Tex-Mex stir-fry, made with the crunchiest chicken toppers you’ll ever taste!

• 2 Asda Breaded Chicken Steaks

• 6 tsp Cook by Asda Cajun Seasoning

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 peppers, red, orange or a mixture, sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 300g Asda Long Grain White Rice

• 175g drained sweetcorn from a 326g can Sweetcorn in Water (save the rest for tuna jackets)

• 45g Leerdammer Original Grated Cheese

• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6, or use an air fryer. Cook the rice according to pack instructions. Cut the breaded chicken steaks into 2cm chunks and toss with 2 tsp of Cajun

seasoning to coat. Space on a baking tray or put in the air fryer basket. Bake for 20 mins in the oven, or 15 mins in the air fryer at 180°C, until golden.

2 Meanwhile, fry the onions and peppers in the oil in a non-stick frying pan for 10 mins until soft and beginning to brown. Stir in the remaining 4 tsp spices for 1 min, followed by the cooked rice and sweetcorn. Stir-fry for 2–3 mins until the rice is piping hot.

3 To serve, divide the rice between bowls or plates, top with the crispy chicken croutons and sprinkle over the cheese and spring onions.

thuRsDay

Twice-cooked tuna melt jackets

In the mood for a mash-up? Give potatoes a tuna melt treatment that’ll be a hit in your home.

• 4 Asda British Fluffy & Golden Large Baking Potatoes

• 1 egg

• 2 x 145g tins Asda Skipjack Tuna Chunks in Spring Water, drained

• 85g drained sweetcorn from a 326g tin Asda Sweetcorn in Water (use the rest for the Fajita fried rice)

• 2 spring onions, finely sliced

• 75g Leerdammer Original Grated Cheese

• 90g Just Essentials by Asda Green Beans, trimmed and halved

• Asda Crisp & Crunchy Little Gem Lettuce

• 175g Asda Sweet & Fruity Baby Plum Tomatoes, halved

1 Prick each potato a couple of times with a fork then cook in an air fryer for 35–40 mins at 200°C, or sandwiched between two sheets of kitchen paper in a microwave for 8 mins and then at 2-minute blasts until the potatoes are soft all the way through (approx. 14–16 mins in total). Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6 if you don’t have an air fryer.

2 Carefully halve each hot potato lengthways, then scoop out most of the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving skins intact. Roughly mash the soft potato, then crack in the egg and mash again until smooth. Stir in the tuna, sweetcorn, ½ the spring onion and ½ of the grated cheese, then spoon back into the potato skins. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

3 Bake the stuffed jackets on a baking tray in the oven for 15 mins or air fry for 10 mins at 180°C, until golden and the filling is hot. Meanwhile, boil the green beans for 3–4 mins in boiling water, then drain. Scatter over lettuce leaves with the tomatoes and remaining spring onions. Serve together.

Per 414g serving contains

FRIDay

Saucy tomato pasta with crispy salami

A speedy supper made from a handful of ingredients, using Asda shortcut sauce to boost the flavour.

Serves 4 | d

1 out of 5 of your 5-a-day

• 350g Asda Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake Sauce

• 400g tin Asda Chopped Tomatoes

• 325g Asda Wholewheat Penne

• 115g Asda German Style Salami

• 100–125g Asda Mild Tender Baby Spinach

1 Put the pasta sauce, tinned tomatoes and pasta into a deep frying pan or shallow casserole dish. Add 2 tomato tins full of water and bring everything up to a simmer. Reduce the heat slightly and cook for 12–14 mins, stirring often to stop the pasta sticking to the bottom of the pan, until the pasta is cooked and sauce thickened.

2 Meanwhile, make the salami crisps. Arrange ½ the salami slices at a time in an air fryer set to 200°C, or on a rack sat in a baking tray under a grill preheated to 250°C, and cook or grill for 6–8 mins, turning halfway. The salami is ready when it has darkened and is sizzling – it will crisp up as it cools down.

3 When the pasta is ready, turn off the heat and stir through the spinach to wilt with some seasoning. Crumble the delicious salami crisps over each portion as you serve.

‘With

BR occo LI

These ‘little trees’ are dependable all-rounders for mealtimes. Since florets have long stolen the show, we’ve shaken things up by cooking with the stalks, too

Asda Tender & Crunchy Broccoli

Broccoli & cheese potato cakes

These savoury teatime bites are seriously moreish, flecked with greens and oozing with mozzarella.

Serves 4 |

3 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 700g Asda Light & Fluffy Maris Piper Potatoes, peeled and cut into 3cm chunks

• 1 Asda Tender & Crunchy Broccoli head, stalk removed and cut into florets (stalk not used in this recipe)

• 125g Asda Italian Mozzarella Cheese, drained, patted dry and cut into 1cm chunks

• 35g Just Essentials by Asda Hard Cheese, finely grated

• 3 tbsp Asda Vegetable Oil

To serve, optional

• 8 sausages

• 200g green beans

• Asda Dijon Mustard

1 Add the potatoes to a saucepan, cover with water, season and bring to the boil. Simmer for 12–15 mins until soft, then drain and steam for 10 mins.

2 Meanwhile, refill the pan with water and bring to the boil. Add the broccoli and boil for 3–5 mins, until just tender but not too soft. Drain, then run under cold water until cool enough to handle. Pat dry with kitchen paper, then chop into 1–2cm chunks.

3 Transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl and mash until smooth. Cool to room temp, then add the broccoli, mozzarella and hard cheese. Season, then mix gently with a spoon so the broccoli doesn’t break up too much. Divide into 12 then shape into flat-

sided cakes. Preheat the oven to 200°/180°C fan/gas 6.

4 Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry in batches of 4 cakes, 3–4 mins each side, until golden and crisp. Don’t move them around too soon or their crispy edge might stick to the pan. Transfer to a lined baking tray and repeat with the remaining oil and cakes. Then bake for 5–6 mins until the cheese is oozing. If liked, serve with cooked sausages, green beans and a dollop of mustard.

Make in the air fryer Bake oilbrushed cakes for 12–15 mins at 200°C, until golden and gooey.

Per 211g serving contains

Broccomole

Boost the colour and flavour of this zingy dip with budget-friendly broccoli for a perfect sharing snack.

Serves 4–6 | V VE

2 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 1 Asda Tender & Crunchy Broccoli

• 1 ripe avocado

• 2 Asda Zingy & Zesty Limes, juiced

• 1 tbsp Asda Olive Oil

• ½ x 30g pack coriander, chopped

• 1 small red onion, very finely diced

• 1 red chilli, deseeded, finely diced (optional; use ½ chilli for less heat)

• Asda Cool Tortilla Chips, to serve (optional)

1 Bring a pan of water to the boil. Cut away the broccoli stalk, peel and trim away tough ends, then chop up. Cut the remaining broccoli into small florets. Boil everything together for 5–7 mins, until the florets and stalks are cooked through. Meanwhile, halve the avocado, discard the stone and scoop out the flesh.

2 Drain the cooked broccoli and run under cold water until completely cool. Drain again to remove as much water as you can, then blitz in a food processor or blender with the avocado, lime juice, olive oil and coriander. Blitz until fairly smooth, scraping down the sides a few times as you go.

3 Transfer the broccomole to a mixing bowl and stir through most of the onion and red chilli, if using. Season

to taste, then transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the remaining onion and chilli. Serve with tortilla chips on the side, if you like.

Get ahead Store in the fridge for up to 2 days, removing from the fridge 1 hour before serving. To prevent browning if making ahead, whizz the broccomole with ½ of the lime juice, then transfer to an airtight container and pour the remaining lime juice over the surface before adding the lid.

Per

Broccoli & garlic spaghetti

Dial down the chilli in this punchy pasta to make it more kid-friendly and add to your A-list of family faves.

Serves 4 | V

2 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 5 Asda Fragrant & Bold Garlic cloves, crushed or finely chopped

• ¼–½ tsp Cook by Asda Crushed Chillies, plus extra to garnish (optional)

• 2 Asda Tender & Crunchy Broccoli heads, cut into very small florets

• 400ml hot vegetable stock, made with 1 stock pot

• 350g Asda Spaghetti

• 75g Just Essentials by Asda Hard Cheese, finely grated, plus extra to serve

1 Heat 2 tbsp of the oil in a large frying pan with a tight-fitting lid and gently fry the garlic and crushed chillies, if using, for 2–3 mins. Add in the broccoli (stalk not used in this recipe) and cook, stirring regularly, for 3–4 mins, then pour over the stock. Season, cover and simmer for 15–18 mins, stirring regularly, until the broccoli is very soft and breaks apart. Remove the lid for the final 3–4 mins to reduce the excess liquid.

2 Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to pack instructions, reserving 200ml of the pasta cooking water before draining.

3 Mash the broccoli into a chunky sauce. Add the spaghetti, 150ml pasta cooking water, the cheese and remaining olive oil. Mix well until

everything is combined and the cheese has melted. If you want the sauce to be looser, add the remaining reserved water. Divide between plates and serve with extra cheese and chilli flakes sprinkled on top, if you like.

Leftovers tip Save the stalks! Peeled and cut into matchsticks, they make a mild but crunchy addition to a slaw. Not convinced? Try Asda’s Vibrant & Crunchy Ranch Coleslaw Kit with dressing, for just £1.15; it combines shredded broccoli stalk with carrot and red cabbage.

Per 517g serving

Speedy prawn & veg paella

Cheat’s cacio e pepe with green beans

MEALS IN MINUTES

These super-speedy ‘teas for two’ are high on flavour, low on faff

Fish & cheesy greens bake

Lamb koftas couscous bowl with tzatziki

CUT OUT & KEEP

Cheat ’s cacio e pepe

Serves 2

1 out of 5

Cut a pack of green beans into bite-size pieces. Add to a pan of boiling water with 350g fresh gnocchi and cook for just 3 mins. Drain the beans and the pasta in a colander and set aside. Make up a pack of peppercorn sauce mix according to the packet instructions – but using boiling water instead of milk. Stir in 40g grated pecorino. Next, heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large frying pan and add the gnocchi and beans over a medium-high heat, frying for 2 mins while giving the pan a good shake. Pour in the peppercorn sauce and bubble for another 2 mins, stirring to combine. Serve up in bowls with the remaining pecorino scattered over, and some freshly ground black pepper.

Per 485g serving contains

2,232kJ

Lamb koftas couscous bowl

Transfer a pack of seasoned lamb grillsteaks to a bowl. With damp hands, mix up the lamb and form into 6 koftas, making them oval in shape and slightly flattened. Preheat the grill to high then cook the koftas for 12–15 mins, turning them halfway until they are golden and juicy. Meanwhile, quarter the tomatoes and dice any big chunky bits from a pack of Mediterranean-style salad, then toss with a pack of roasted pepper couscous Divide between two bowls and place the cooked koftas on top. Loosen ½ a tub of tzatziki with 1–2 tbsp water, then dollop over the salad and koftas to serve.

Speedy prawn & veg paella

Fry ½ a pack of diced chorizo in 1 tsp olive oil in a frying pan over a low-medium heat for 2–3 mins until the chorizo begins to release its oil. Remove the bits of chorizo with a slotted spoon and set aside. Increase heat to medium-high, add 1 small, chopped onion to the flavoured oil and fry for 3–4 mins until softening. Add a pack of garlic and herb king prawns and cook for 2 mins. Add 4 tbsp water, the contents of 2 of the golden vegetable rice steam bags and return the chorizo. Break up the rice and mix in the prawns. Cover with a lid and cook for 5 mins until prawns are cooked through. Serve with lemon wedges on the side of the dish.

Per 318g serving contains

Fish & cheesy greens bake

Put 2 hake fillets in a microwave-safe dish with 4 tbsp water. Cover and cook on high for 4 mins. Flake to check fish is cooked or continue at 1 min blasts until cooked through. Microwave a pack of creamy cabbage according to the packet instructions. Flake fish into a small baking dish. Add the hot cabbage, 50g grated light extra mature cheddar, 3 tbsp water, seasoning and mix. Bash 2 packs garlic and herb oven-baked croutons to chunky crumbs with a rolling pin. Toss with 1 tsp olive oil and 25g grated cheddar, then scatter over the fish and grill for 2–3 mins until golden. Serve with steamed veg.

Per 286g serving

Asda Tender & Crunchy Trimmed Fine Beans, £5.56/kg; Asda Fresh Gnocchi, £3.90/ kg Asda Peppercorn Sauce Mix, £1.83/100g; Asda Italian Grated Pecorino, £27/ kg; Asda Flavourful Seasoned Lamb Grillsteaks, £10/kg; Asda Mediterranean Style Salad, 74.1p/100g; Asda Sweet Roasted Pepper Cous Cous, £1.09/100g; Asda Tzatziki, 61.5p/100g

Asda Diced Chorizo Twin Pack, £1.92/100g Asda Loose Onion, 13p/each; Asda Garlic & Herb King Prawns

O’CLOCK LUNCH

From five-minute bites to prep-the-night-before soup, fill up on new flavours and bring a little magic back into your day

TOAST TOPPER

Double egg crumpets with spicy mayo

RECIPES RACHEL BECKWITH PHOTOGRAPHS MARTIN POOLE BUDGET SAVVY £1.15 PER SERVE

Makeover a lunchtime staple with store-cupboard friendly ingredients to get a plate full of flavour at midday…

1 out of 5

of your 5-a-dayu

• 2 medium eggs

• 2 crumpets

• 2 tbsp Asda Light Mayonnaise

• 2 tsp sriracha hot chilli sauce

• ¼ cucumber, peeled into ribbons

1 Bring a medium saucepan of water to the boil, then add the eggs. Cook for 6 mins, then take a spoon and remove one of the eggs; plunge into cold water. Keep the other egg cooking for a further minute then remove.

2 Meanwhile, toast the crumpets and peel the boiled eggs.

3 Roughly chop the 7-minute egg and mix with the mayonnaise, sriracha and seasoning, then spread over the

toasted crumpets and top with the cucumber ribbons.

4 Carefully halve the 6-minute jammy egg and add to the crumpets, with a little more seasoning.

ELEVATED EVERYDAY

Spinach & feta toastie

Seeking lunchtime joy? Stop here! Sideline your usual sarnie for this moreish wrap with a cheesy filling.

HANDS ON 5 mins HANDS OFF 10 mins

Serves 2 | V

2 out of 5 of your 5-a-day

• 200g Asda Mild & Tender Spinach, plus 2 extra handfuls

• 70g feta or Apetina 50% Less Fat

Original White Cheese, chopped

• 4 spring onions, trimmed, and sliced

• 25g pack fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped

• 1 large free range egg, lightly beaten

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, plus an extra tsp

• 2 The Bakery at Asda White Wraps

• 4 tsp olive oil

• 2–3 vine tomatoes, wedged

1 Boil a kettle of water and place 200g of spinach in a colander sat in the sink. Pour over the boiling water to wilt the spinach, then squeeze to remove excess water.

2 Roughly chop the wilted spinach and add to a bowl with the cheese, spring onions, parsley, egg, a tbsp of lemon juice, salt and pepper. Mix to combine.

3 Spoon ½ the mixture in the centre of a wrap. Fold in the sides to meet in the middle, pressing down to squish the filling, and brush with a little oil.

Fold in the top and bottom to meet in the middle again, then flip; you should have a rough square. Brush with a little more oil on both sides, then air-fry at 190°C for 10 mins until crispy, turning halfway through. (Alternatively, cook in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat for 4–5 mins each side.) Repeat to make and cook a second wrap.

4 Mix the remaining tsp of lemon juice with 2 tsp olive oil, drizzle over the tomatoes and remaining spinach and serve alongside the toasties.

Each 402g serving contains

COOK’S TIP

If you have it, add a little fresh nutmeg to the mixture, before cooking, to enhance the flavour.

BUDGET SAVVY

£1.20 PER SERVE

COOK’S TIP

Make sure the chicken pieces are submerged in liquid when cooking; if not, top up with hot water.

BATCH COOK

Chicken orzo soup

Prep this fragrant, zesty broth with succulent chicken in advance and you’ll have lunch for days.

3 out of

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 leek, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 chicken stock cubes, crumbled

• 1kg pack Asda Succulent Boneless Chicken Thigh Fillets

• 250g Asda Orzo

• ½ bunch dill, chopped, plus extra to garnish

• 250g Asda Frozen for Freshness Petits Pois

• 2 lemons; 1½ zested and juiced, ½ sliced for serving

1 Heat the oil in a large casserole dish then add in the onion, leek and carrots along with a pinch of salt. Stir, then cook with a lid on for 10 mins over a low heat until soft.

2 Add the garlic and plenty of freshly ground black pepper and cook for 1 min, then add the stock cubes, 1.2 litres of water and the chicken thigh fillets. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a low, gentle

simmer and cook uncovered for 20 mins.

3 Remove the chicken and transfer to a plate. Add the orzo and chopped dill to the pan, stir and cook for 5 mins.

4 Add the peas to the pan, stir, and cook for 2 mins more. Meanwhile, use two forks to shred the chicken.

5 Return the chicken to the pan, along with any juices. Stir through the lemon zest and juice and taste for seasoning – add a little more lemon juice if you prefer. Serve with extra dill, black pepper and slices of lemon.

Each 335g serving contains

TUPPERWARE TRIUMPH

Tuna caesar salad

After a light but filling bite? Layer on the flavours in a twist on a classic lunch that keeps the munchies at bay.

Serves 2 |

2 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 400g tin chickpeas, drained and patted dry

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic granules

• 4 tbsp Asda Light Caesar Dressing

• 2 x 110g tin Asda Tuna Steak in a Little Spring Water, drained

• 1 Asda Sweet & Crisp Romaine Lettuce Hearts, chopped

• 30g Exceptional by Asda Parmigiano Reggiano DOP cheese, thinly shaved

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7, or use an air fryer. Toss together the chickpeas, oil and garlic granules along with a good pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper.

2 Spread the chickpeas out in a single layer on a baking tray and roast for 25 mins until crispy. Alternatively, air fry in a single layer for 10–12 mins at 200°C. Cool then store the crispy chickpeas in a jar or airtight container.

3 If transporting the salads, split the ingredients between two containers: add the caesar dressing to the bottom, followed by the tuna, chopped lettuce and finally cheese. Seal and keep chilled for up to two days, tossing or

shaking ½ of the crispy chickpeas through each salad portion just before serving. Alternatively, layer all the salad ingredients between two plates and serve.

306g serving

Speedy snack sums

The perfect pick-me-ups and healthier choices to help you make the most of those in-between-meal moments

With life being so busy, we all know the challenges of eating well, especially if we’re trying to cram more protein into our diets or up the kids’ 5-a-day intake. Pre-packaged snacks are tempting, but by rustling up your own tasty treats you can sneak in a little extra goodness and even save some pennies. Use our handy table to create your own snack solutions to keep your family fuelled.

Asda Fat Free Natural Fromage

EAT AND GO

…top watermelon with fromage frais and muesli for a little extra crunch – the perfect proteinpacked^ snack.

SWEET NUT

…serve up apple slices slathered in protein-rich^^ nut butter and granola for a nutritious after-school treat.

at

COOL & LIGHT

…for cheesy roll-ups that make fun finger food for the kids. Wholegrain helps to pack in a bit of extra fibre**.

Asda Cool & Crunchy Mini Cucumbers, £5/kg; Asda Light Garlic & Herb Soft Cheese, £7.40/kg; The Bakery at Asda Wholemeal Wraps, 13.8p/each.

Asda Crisp & Juicy Watermelon Fans, £1.52/300g

Asda Sweet & Juicy Royal Gala Apples, £1.49/6-pack*

Asda Cool & Crunchy Mini Cucumbers, £1/200g

Asda Smooth Peanut Butter, £1.78/340g

Asda Light Garlic & Herb Soft Cheese, £1.30/200g

Asda Simply Granola, £1.90/500g

The Bakery

Asda Wholemeal Wraps, £1.10/8-pack

Frais, £1.40/400g

Asda Fruit & Nut Muesli, £2/750g

Dear Asda…

When one reader wrote to us in a foodie fix we asked Peter Sawkins, youngest ever winner of The Great British Bake Off, for his expertise

The dilemma

‘I’m a keen home cook with a gluten intolerance. I tried your recipe for air fryer Yorkshire puddings in Hacks More Like It [Sept/Oct issue]. I swapped the flour for a gluten-free alternative, but, sadly, my Yorkies failed to rise. Please can you help?’ Sally, Gosport

We’ve got a great solution that we think you’ll love Sally, so give this recipe a try. I’m excited to hear what you think!

, Asda Magazine editor

Gluten-free Yorkshire puddings

No need to miss out on the best part of the Sunday roast! Use cornflour in the batter to help your Yorkies puff up to a light and airy texture.

• 125g Brown and Polson Original Patent Cornflour

• 3 eggs

• 200ml milk

• 10 tsp vegetable oil

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7. Put the cornflour into a mixing bowl with a pinch of salt. Crack in the eggs, then add ¼ of the milk and whisk until you have a smooth batter. Gradually add the remaining milk while whisking, then transfer the thin, lump-free batter to a jug.

2 Pour 1 tsp oil into 10 holes of a 12-hole muffin tray. Place in the hot oven for 5 mins to heat up.

3 Carefully remove the tray from the oven and quickly and evenly pour the batter between

the oiled holes; approx 2 tbsp per hole. You should end up with between 8–10 Yorkies, depending on the size of your muffin tin. Bake, without opening the oven door, for 20–25 mins until well-risen and golden brown.

SALLY SAYS

‘There’s just one thing to say about this recipe –perfect Yorkshire puddings! This simple cornflour switch was so easy and they’re totally delicious. I’ll still be cooking them in my air fryer but now serving these with every roast dinner in the future.’

PHOTOGRAPHS STUART WEST

COOK’S TIP

To air fry the Yorkies, oil the metal pudding moulds then heat in the air fryer at 190ºC for 5 mins. Next, add the batter and bake for 13 mins.

Gluten-free sausage lasagne

Asda Exceptional sausages are naturally gluten-free and are a great shortcut for adding flavour and richness to a ragù sauce.

4–5

• 50g butter

• 50g Asda Free From Gluten Plain Flour

• 600ml semi-skimmed milk

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 pack Asda Exceptional

6 Cumberland Pork Sausages

• 375g Cook by Asda Frozen Vegetable Base Mix

• 3 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 large leek, trimmed, washed, diced

• 2 tsp Cook by Asda Italian Inspired Seasoning or dried mixed herbs

• 500g passata

• 12 (150g) Asda Free From Gluten Lasagne Sheets

• 100g mozzarella or light mozzarella

• 100g pack Asda Strong & Crisp

Italian Style Salad, to serve (optional)

1 To make the gluten-free béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour for 2 mins.

2 Whisk in the milk, a little at a time, to a smooth paste, and then a lump-free sauce. Stirring constantly, bring to a gentle simmer. Bubble, still stirring, for 2–3 mins until the sauce has thickened. Season to taste and set aside.

3 To make the ragù, add the olive oil to a non-stick frying pan on medium-high heat. Break the sausages into the pan in small pieces, then fry for 5 mins, using a wooden spoon to break them into even smaller pieces as they cook.

4 Stir in the frozen veg mix, garlic and leek. Continue frying on a medium heat until the onion is soft, about 8 mins. Add the passata with 250ml water. Gently simmer for 20 mins, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and season to taste. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.

5 Spread a ¹⁄3 of the ragù in the base of a deep medium-sized baking dish. Cover with a single layer of gluten-free lasagne sheets, then dollop over just under a ¹⁄3 of the white sauce and spread out over the lasagne. Repeat these layers twice more, finishing with the rest of the white sauce to completely cover the top.

6 Tear over the mozzarella, then bake in the oven for about 25–30 mins until golden and bubbling. Serve with salad.

Per 450g serving contains

SALLY SAYS

‘This lasagne tasted exceptional and it reheated really well from the fridge and frozen. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Lasagne isn’t my go-to pasta dish but I was pleasantly surprised. I live alone so have portioned this up and have a batch in the freezer to defrost and eat another time ’

COOK’S TIP

Add a little grated cheddar or mozzarella to the béchamel layers as you build. Sprinke in a little nutmeg if you have it to hand, too.

Gluten-free orange & almond shortbread

Amp up these classic, buttery Scottish biscuits with citrus and nutty flavours. Someone put the kettle on…

HANDS ON 15 mins HANDS OFF 22 mins

Makes 15 (biscuits) | V GF EF d

2 out of 5

• 100g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

• 75g caster or granulated sugar, plus extra to sprinkle (optional)

• 1½ oranges, zested, plus an extra ¼ zested to serve (optional)

• 1 tsp Asda Extra Special Valencian Orange Extract

• 200g Asda Free From Gluten Self Raising Flour

• 40g flaked almonds

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Grease a 20cm square tin with butter and line with baking paper. Add the butter, sugar, orange zest and orange extract into a bowl. Mix together with a wooden spoon until well-combined and soft.

2 Stir in the gluten-free flour until well combined and it looks like crumble topping. Stir in ½ the almonds.

3 Tip the mixture into the lined tin and use the back of a cutlery spoon to evenly spread and firmly flatten into the tin. Sprinkle remaining flaked almonds over the top and bake for 20–22 mins until the surface is a pale golden colour but feels sandy to touch. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 1–2 tsp extra sugar if you like, and cool in the tin completely for 2–3 hours before cutting up into biscuits.

4 Remove and use a sharp knife to cut into 15 fingers. Zest over the last ¼ of orange to finish, if you like.

Per 27g serving contains

SALLY SAYS

‘This was extremely easy to make. It has a lovely consistency, nice and short but not too crumbly. My daughter is gluten-free, and a shortbread fan, so it ’s been lovely to share this with her.’

Peter Sawkins

‘Since winning Bake Off in 2020, my mission has been to make baking accessible for everyone. My brother’s gluten-intolerant, so lots of my bakes are naturally gluten-free, which primed me to recreate these classic recipes for Sally to enjoy.’

BUDGET SAVVY 15P PER SERVE

COOK’S TIP

Don’t skip the cooling stage – it’s essential for firming up your shortbread biscuits.

FIND US IN THE FROZEN AISLE

top oF the chocs

Expect nothing but indulgent flavours and the best ingredients with our luxuriously lovely Exceptional by Asda Easter eggs

Exceptional by Asda Hand

Decorated Fruit & Nut Milk Chocolate Egg, £9.98/300g

Exceptional by Asda Hand

Decorated Caramel, Pretzel & Honeycomb

Milk Chocolate Egg, £9.98/300g

WORDS LOUISA STREETING PHOTOGRAPHS STEVE SAYERS

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Orange & Ginger Dark Chocolate Egg, £9.98/200g

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Hazelnut & Blonde Chocolate Egg, £9.98/200g

1. Go nuts

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Fruit & Nut Milk Chocolate Egg

A decadent Easter egg with an extra-thick shell combines creamy milk chocolate swirled with ultra-smooth hazelnut paste, plump raisins and satisfyingly crunchy hazelnut pieces. This texture-packed treat will make your Easter!

2. Sweet & salty

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Caramel, Pretzel & Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Egg

Moreish milk chocolate is generously studded with an irresistible mix of buttery caramel chunks, salty pretzel pieces, and crunchy honeycomb. A sweet-and-savoury sensation that will make your mouth water.

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Fruit & Nut Milk Chocolate Egg, £3.33/100g; Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Caramel, Pretzel & Honeycomb Milk Chocolate Egg, £3.33/100g; Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Orange and Ginger Dark Chocolate Egg, £4.99/100g; Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Hazelnut and Blonde Chocolate

3. Citrus burst

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Orange & Ginger Dark Chocolate Egg

This exquisite egg is made using the finest Belgian dark chocolate. Its rich cocoa notes are balanced with the bright, zesty flavour of scattered candied orange pieces, crystallised ginger and crunchy cocoa nibs. Delicious!

4. Golden treasure

Exceptional by Asda Hand Decorated Hazelnut & Blonde Chocolate Egg

Crafted from quality Italian blonde chocolate, this golden egg boasts a delicate caramel flavour with notes of toffee and brown butter. It ’s blended with a premium hazelnut paste, hazelnuts and sea salt for the perfect bite.

Kitchen TRICKS

Test the trend

We’ve given the Easter joint the air fryer treatment with a small, but mighty tasty, roast beef recipe for a cosy gathering

Air-fryer roast beef

• 500g Asda Tender Small Beef Roasting Joint

• 1 tbsp olive oil

1 Remove the beef from the fridge 30 mins to 1 hr before cooking. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C.

2 Pat the joint dry with a piece of kitchen roll, then rub all over with oil, salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. For medium-cooked beef, air fry for 10 mins before reducing the heat to 170°C.

3 Cook the meat for another 18 mins then remove and allow to

OUR VERDICT

rest, covered loosely with foil for 10 mins, before slicing to serve.

Rare 10 mins at 200°C, plus 10 mins at 170°C and 10 mins to rest (internal meat thermometer temp 50°C).

Medium 10 mins at 200°C, 18 mins at 170°C, 10 mins to rest (internal meat thermometer temp 60°C).

Well done 15 mins at 200°C, 20 mins at 170°C, 10 mins to rest (internal meat temp 70°C).

We like this – it’s a really fast and efficient way to cook roast beef. Serve with watercress salad and steamed new potatoes for a spring twist and – best of all – leave the oven switched off!

Air-fry roast beef to perfection and aim for a zero-waste Sunday lunch – effortless Easter feasting with Food Editor Clare Knivett

PICK OF THE MONTH

A TASTE OF SUNSHINE

Made with real orange oil (and free from artificial flavours or colours), this high-quality extract adds a fresh, citrus zing to cakes, biscuits, icings, marinades, dressings and more. And since you only need a smidge, it’s a budget-friendly way to get fancy and elevate your kitchen creations. Give it a try in our almond and orange shortbread on p44 .

Asda Extra Special Valencian Orange Extract, £1.34/60ml

Take the leftover chicken from your roast and remove any large pieces of meat. Put the stripped carcass, along with any extra bones, into your largest, heavy-bottomed saucepan or a slow cooker. Add very large, uniform chunks of vegetables like carrot, onion and celery (too small and they will disintegrate), plus woody herbs like bay, thyme and rosemary. You can use other raw veg like fennel, garlic and leek, but choose carefully

as starchy vegetables like potatoes will ‘cloud’ stock, and anything too green will discolour it. Add enough water to cover everything then bring to a simmer and cook, covered, for 2–3 hrs, or in a slow cooker for 6–8 hrs on low. Occasionally skim the foamy layer that rises to the surface. Strain everything through a sieve. Leave the stock to cool completely then store in a tub in the fridge for a week or keep in a freezer for up to 3 months.

Vegetable-peel crisps For a no-waste snack, pat peelings dry, toss with any seasoning/spices (eg. smoked paprika) and spray lightly with oil. Air fry in batches at 180°C for 8–10 mins or oven bake at 200°C for 20–25 mins, shaking once until crisp.

Your one-stop shop for handy accessories and culinary gadgets

Test the temp When it comes to cooking meat to perfection, you’ll love this easy-to-read digital display. Joie Meat Thermometer, £9

Stylish suppers

Cook anything, from stovetop stews to oven-baked lasagne, in this gorgeous cream pot. Shallow Casserole Dish, £22.50

On the board

From sharing platter displays to nifty knife work, this board is a useful piece of kit. Chopping Board, £7

HOW TO… MAKE CHICKEN STOCK

MoMents! MagIc

These no-bake seasonal sweet treats are stunningly simple to make but totally deliver on wow-factor for all the family

RECIPES EMILY JONZEN PHOTOGRAPHS MARTIN POOLE

Mini donut nests

Cuteness overload! Turn our Asda ready-made donuts into Easter goodies – just pick a fave topping.

• 50g Bake by Asda Milk or White

Cooking Chocolate

• 9-pack Asda Sugar Mini Ring Donuts To decorate

• 3–4 Asda Chocolate Sticks or ½ x 70g pack Bake by Asda

Chocolate Sprinkles or 15g Asda

Desiccated Coconut

• 120g Smarties Milk Chocolate

Mini Eggs

1 Break your milk or white chocolate into pieces and put into a microwavesafe bowl. Heat in 20 second bursts in the microwave, until just melted. Stir and set aside to cool slightly.

2 Crumble chocolate sticks onto a plate, and sprinkles and/or coconut onto other plates.

3 Dip the top of each donut into the melted chocolate, letting any excess run off. Dip in or sprinkle over your chosen topping so the chocolate is just about covered. Put on a wire rack to set for 20 mins. Top each donut with mini chocolate eggs before serving.

COOK’STIP

Be careful not to overheat your chocolate, or it will become grainy. Stick to short bursts in the microwave.

it with

Asda Sugar Mini Ring Donuts, £1.50/9-pack

Chocolate caramel mug cakes

With a toffee centre that packs a super-sweet punch, this no-weigh recipe is a dream to make.

HANDS ON 10 mins HANDS OFF 1–2 mins

Serves 2 | V

1 out of 5

• 3 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra for greasing

• 4 tbsp Bake by Asda Self Raising Flour

• 2 tbsp Bake by Asda Cocoa Powder

• 3 tbsp caster sugar

• 1 medium egg

• 2 tbsp skimmed milk

• 2 tsp Asda Extra Special Salted Caramel Dessert Sauce

• Asda Really Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream (to serve, optional)

1 Lightly grease two small, microwavable mugs (200ml capacity). Put the flour, cocoa powder, sugar and a pinch of salt into a bowl and whisk with a fork to combine. Crack in the egg; add in the remaining oil and the skimmed milk. Whisk again, until the mixture is just smooth.

2 Divide the mixture between the mugs, then top each mug with 1 tsp of caramel sauce but don’t stir – this will sink into the centre of the cake as it cooks.

3 Place the mugs in the microwave and cook for 2 mins at 600W, 1 min 30 secs at 800W or 1 min at 1,000W. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if you like.

Per

Bake by Asda Cocoa Powder, £3.14/250g MAKE it with

BUDGET SAVVY 88P PER SERVE

Bake by Asda Cocoa Powder, £1.26/100g

MAKE it with

• 75g Asda British Unsalted Butter, plus extra for greasing

Holy sprinkles! We put a popcorn twist on no-bake crispy party cakes that’ll put the fun into any occasion.

• ½ a 65g jar Bake by Asda Rainbow Sprinkles Bake by

• 2 x 180g bags Asda Marshmallows

• 125g Asda Rice Snaps

• 75g Asda Sweet Popcorn

• 150g Bake by Asda White Cooking Chocolate, cut into small chunks

• 150g Bake by Asda Pink & White Mini Mallows

1 Grease a 35x24cm baking tray and line with baking paper. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over a low heat. Add the large marshmallows and heat gently, stirring from time to time, until smooth and glossy.

2 Remove from the heat and stir in the rice snaps and most of the popcorn (save a handful for the topping). Stir through most of the white chocolate chunks, most of the mini mallows and ¾ of the sprinkles.

3 Scrape the mixture into the tin and use clean, slightly damp hands to push the mixture into the corners and flatten out. Sprinkle with the remaining popcorn, chocolate, mallows and sprinkles. Leave to cool, then set in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hr, or up to overnight. Use a very sharp, serrated knife to cut into the treat-loaded squares.

COOK’S TIP

Dip your knife in just-boiled water and it’ll slice through the loaded topping nicely!

YOUR. Easter weekend COVERED.

Celebrate the bank holiday in style with this deliciously simple set of recipes covering the whole weekend, from shared breakfasts to Sunday feasting

RECIPES MYLES WILLIAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY MARTIN POOLE

BIG BREAKFAST.

Turkish egg & tapenade flatbreads

Start your day with a fancy take on the traditional eggs brekkie, with tasty chilli butter and garlic yogurt.

• 500g pot Asda Creamy or Fat Free Greek Style Yogurt

• 3 garlic cloves, finely crushed

• 50g unsalted butter

• 1 tsp crushed chillies

• 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or hot chilli powder)

• 4½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 4 x Asda The Bakery Garlic & Herb Flamebaked Folded Flatbreads

• 140g jar Asda Kalamata Olive & Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade

• 8 Exceptional by Asda Free Range Gold Yolk Eggs

• ½ x 25g pack Asda Delicately Sweet Dill, roughly torn

COOK’S TIP

Not a fan of dill?

Use up some leftover flat leaf parsley to garnish these instead.

1 In a small bowl, mix the yogurt and garlic with a good pinch of salt; set aside near the hob. Heat the butter in a small saucepan over a mediumhigh heat until foaming and turning a nutty brown colour (about 2–4 mins). Add the crushed chillies, paprika and cayenne pepper (or chilli powder). Remove from the heat and add 1½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil.

2 Meanwhile, unfold and toast the flatbreads. Add to the plates and spread the tapenade between them while they are still warm.

3 Heat a large frying pan over a medium-high heat and add 1½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil. Crack in 4 eggs and fry for 2–3 mins, spooning some of the hot oil over the yolks, until justcooked and crispy on the base. Set aside on a large plate and repeat with the remaining oil and eggs.

4 Dollop the garlic yogurt onto the flatbreads and divide the fried eggs between them. Gently re-warm the chilli butter and spoon over, finishing with a sprinkle of torn dill.

Parma ham, chicken & creamy potato traybake

This effortless one-pan wonder is pure indulgence and can be easily adjusted to feed a crowd.

• 1kg baby potatoes, halved (or quartered, if large)

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 6 chicken breasts (about 150–200g each)

• 6 slices of Parma ham

• 2 bunches spring onions, trimmed, halved lengthways into long strips and washed

• 1 Asda Chicken Stock Pots (or cube)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 200ml Asda Crème Fraîche or Half

Fat Crème Fraîche

• ½ x 25g pack Asda Mild & Peppery

Flat Leaf Parsley, roughly chopped

• ½ lemon

• Seasonal greens, to serve, optional

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7. Add the potatoes to a largerimmed baking tray, season, toss with 2 tbsp oil and spread in an even layer. Roast for 15 mins.

2 Meanwhile, season chicken breasts and wrap each with a slice of Parma

ham; do this on the diagonal with the ends of the slice tucked under the bottom of each chicken breast.

3 Spread the spring onions over the part-roasted potatoes and place the chicken on top. Drizzle with 2 tbsp oil and roast for 20 mins, until the chicken is golden, crisp and cooked through.

4 Meanwhile, combine the stock pot (or cube) in a jug with 350ml justboiled water. Whisk in the mustards, crème fraîche and most of the chopped parsley. Remove the tray

from the oven and pour this mixture over the vegetables, avoiding the chicken. Roast for a final 5 mins until the sauce is just bubbling.

5 Squeeze lemon over the dish and scatter with the remaining parsley. Serve with green veg.

Exceptional by Asda Old Bush Vine Chenin Blanc, £6.57/75cl

STUNNING VEGGIE MAIN

Asparagus filo tart

Make simple folds in ready-rolled pastry and use in-season veg to whip up this impressive-looking meal.

HANDS ON 25 mins HANDS OFF 40 mins

Serves 6–8 | V

2 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 100g unsalted butter, melted

• 200g pack Asda Ready Rolled Filo Pastry

• 3 x 150g packs Asda Tender & Nutty Asparagus

• 100g Lancashire cheese, coarsely crumbled or grated

• 3 eggs

• 300ml single cream

• ½ x 25g pack Asda Fragrant & Mild Chives, finely chopped

• 50g Asda Chopped Hazelnuts, lightly chopped

• 1 lemon, zested

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7. Brush a large, deep baking tray (about 22x32cm) with some of the butter and lay in 2 of the filo sheets to completely cover the base and sides with a little overhang. Brush with a little more butter. Fold the next sheet alternately at 2–3cm intervals to create a fan-like effect, bunching it up at one end of the tray. Repeat with remaining pastry so that the tray is completely filled. Dab over most of the melted butter.

2 Divide the asparagus spears and cheese between the pastry folds. Whisk the eggs, single cream and most of the chives in a jug with a pinch of salt until well combined. Pour the mix evenly over the pastry, scatter with the chopped hazelnuts, and dab

everything with the remaining butter. 3 Bake on the lowest shelf of the oven for 10 mins, then reduce the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4 for a further 20–30 mins, until the pastry is golden and the filling has set. Serve warm or cool, scattering with the lemon zest and reserved chopped chives.

BUDGET SAVVY £1.32 PER SERVE

COOK’S TIP

Bake the tart on the lowest shelf at 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4 for 35–45 mins to serve with the lamb recipe on page 68.

CENTREPIECE WITH A TWIST

Pesto-roasted lamb leg with saucy potatoes

Elevate your succulent Easter roast with plenty of herby flavours to give a burst of springtime freshness.

HANDS ON 35 mins HANDS OFF 1 hr 20 mins Serves 6–8 | EF

3 out of 5

• 2 x 30g packs Asda Cool & Refreshing Mint

• 130g pack Asda Extra Special Basil Pesto

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Asda Tender Lamb Leg (typically 2.15kg)

• 2kg pack Asda Smooth & Rich Red Potatoes, peeled and cut into thick wedges

• 1 garlic bulb, cloves bashed and peeled

• 20g pack Asda Delightfully Fragrant Growing Rosemary

• 20g pack Asda Fresh & Earthy Thyme

• 300ml lamb (or chicken) stock

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

1 Pick and finely chop most of the mint leaves, adding them to the pesto with 3 tbsp oil and 6 tbsp water (or whizz together in a small

food processor). Trim the lamb leg of excess sinew and score all over at 2cm intervals, about 1–2cm deep, season well and spread over ½ the pesto (reserve the rest to serve). Leave the lamb to marinate while you prep the potatoes, or for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.

2 In a very deep baking tray or roasting tin (that will hold all of the potatoes and lamb), toss the potato wedges and garlic cloves, reserving 1 for garnish, with the remaining oil and seasoning, then spread in an even layer. Add the rosemary and thyme (bunched and tied with kitchen string if you have some) to the centre of the tray. Pour stock over the potatoes then top with the lamb leg.

3 Roast for 1 hr. Remove and cover just the lamb with foil and roast for about 20 mins more for medium-rare (55°C internal temperature); 25–30 mins for medium (60°C); 30–35 mins for medium-well (65°C); 35–40 mins for well done (70°C+). For accuracy, test with a meat thermometer, see Kitchen Tricks p52. To garnish, finely chop the remaining mint leaves and garlic clove, and combine with the lemon zest. Drizzle the lemon juice over the lamb and potatoes (discard the woody herbs) and serve with the reserved pesto sauce alongside.

Marmalade-glazed carrots

Orange juice and marmalade bring brightness and a sweet-citrus deliciousness to this zesty side dish.

HANDS ON 15 mins HANDS OFF 25–30 mins

Serves 4 | V

1 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 750g carrots, peeled and trimmed

• 1½ tbsp Asda Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 4 tbsp Asda Extra Special Seville Orange Breakfast Marmalade

SUPERB SIDE DISHES

• ½ orange, juiced

• small handful Asda Mild & Peppery Flat Leaf Parsley, roughly chopped

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Cut carrots using the ‘rollcut’ method (to give maximum surface area for lots of sticky caramelisation). Start at the tip, slice thickly on the diagonal, then roll the carrot so the cut side faces up, cut again and repeat on the same diagonal angle, into similar-sized chunks.

2 Add to a deep baking tray with oil and seasoning and toss. Roast

COOK’STIP

These side dishes are great crowd pleasers. Simply double the recipe for more guests.

in an even layer for 20 mins. Remove and stir through the marmalade and orange juice, upping the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7 (when the lamb comes out, if cooking together). Roast for a final 5–10 mins, until tender and sticky. Serve scattered with chopped parsley.

Peas with cabbage & onions

Mustard is the secret ingredient to amping up these spring greens.

HANDS ON 10 mins HANDS OFF 10 mins

Serves 4 | V EF

FACTOR

1 out of 5 of your 5-a-day

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 40g unsalted butter

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 500g Asda Frozen for Freshness Garden Peas

• ½ small Asda Sweet & Earthy Savoy Cabbage, trimmed, cored and

thickly shredded

• 100ml vegetable stock (or water)

• 1 tbsp English or Dijon mustard

1 Heat a medium-large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the oil and butter, followed by the onion. Cook for 4–6 mins until softened, before adding the peas, cabbage and stock (or water). Cover with a tight-fitting lid and steam for another 8–10 mins, stirring occasionally, until the veg is tender. Stir through mustard, season and serve immediately.

1. The sauce

Asda Extra Special Mint Sauce with Balsamic Vinegar, 92.7p/100g; Asda Extra Special Beef Gravy Granules, 95p/100g; Bistro by Asda Cauliflower Cheese, 74p/kg; Asda Extra Special Roasted Garlic, Sage & Red Onion Stuffing Mix, £16.82/100g; Bistro by Asda Buttery Maris Piper Mash, 74p/kg

4. The cheese Bistro by Asda Cauliflower Cheese, £2.97/400g

5. The stuffing

Asda Extra Special Roasted Garlic, Sage & Red Onion Stuffing Mix, £1.85/110g

6. The mash Bistro by Asda Buttery Maris Piper Mash, £2.97/400g

PERFECT PUDDINGS.

Chocolate swirl brownies

With choccy eggs, cheesecake swirls and caramelised biscuit marbling, this bake is loaded with treats.

Serves 16 | V d

out of 5

• 250g unsalted butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing

• 100g Bake by Asda Cocoa Powder

• 1 tsp Asda Extra Special Vanilla Extract

• 100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

• 5 eggs

• 60g Asda Smooth Caramelised Biscuit Spread

• 75g Asda Original Creamy

Soft Cheese

• 210g caster sugar

• 100g light brown sugar

• 50g plain flour

• 120g Cadbury Mini Eggs

1 Preheat the oven to 180˚C/160˚C fan/gas 4. Grease a deep George Home Non-Stick Square Springform cake tin (24x24cm) and line the base and sides with baking paper.

2 Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium heat until foaming. Stir in the cocoa, vanilla and ½ tsp fine sea salt, followed by the chopped chocolate and allow it to melt off the heat, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool.

3 For the cheesecake swirl toppings, beat 1 egg with a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth. Pour ½ into another small bowl and beat in the biscuit spread with 1 tbsp water until smooth (it will be the consistency of natural yogurt). Whisk the cream cheese and 2 tsp caster sugar into the rest of the beaten egg.

4 In a large mixing bowl, whisk the remaining caster sugar, eggs and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat the cocoa-butter mix into the eggs until combined, then whisk in the flour to make a smooth glossy batter. Transfer to the prepared cake tin and spread in an even layer.

5 Using all the mixture, dollop teaspoons of the cheesecake topping randomly over the top of the brownie, then repeat with the biscuit topping leaving gaps of brownie. Lightly tap the tin on the surface so the mixture is level. Using a small cutlery knife, swirl the toppings in circles or figures of eight using a purposeful sweeping action to create a marbled effect.

6 Bake for 15–20 mins until a crust is forming, then carefully remove from the oven and press the mini eggs gently into the batter. Bake for a final 5–10 mins, until set on top and a skewer has a few sticky crumbs on when inserted. Cool completely in the tin before serving.

1. The choccy one Bistro by Asda Melt in the Middle Belgian Chocolate Puddings, £2.97/310g

2. The sharer Bistro by Asda Belgian Chocolate & Caramel Profiteroles, £2.97/6-pack

3. The lemony one Bistro by Asda 2 Sicilian Lemon Baked Cheesecakes , £2.97/232g

Sicilian Lemon Baked Cheesecakes, £1.29/100g

Marmalade carrot breakfast muffins

Make a batch of these mega moist and citrussy bakes for a handy, on-the-go brekkie for busy families.

LOVELY LEFTOVERS.

COOK’S TIP

For extra fibre, swap out half the plain flour for wholemeal and replace the chocolate with raisins.

• 125g unsalted butter

• 100g runny honey

• 50g Asda Extra Special Seville Orange Breakfast Marmalade

• ½ orange, juiced and zested 100g Asda Creamy Greek Style Yogurt, plus extra to serve

• 2 eggs

• 250g Bake by Asda Plain Flour

• 2½ tsp Bake by Asda Baking Powder

• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 1½ tsp ground mixed spice

• 250g leftover raw carrots, peeled and coarsely grated

• 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped (or use chips)

• 120g Asda Simply Granola

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4 and line a muffin tin with paper cases. Melt the butter in a small saucepan then, off the heat, whisk in the honey, marmalade, orange zest and juice, followed by the yogurt and eggs, until combined.

2 In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, bicarb and mixed spice with a pinch of salt. Add the carrots, followed by the wet mixture, stirring to combine before adding the chocolate.

3 Divide the batter between the muffin cases. Evenly scatter the granola on top and gently press. Bake for 20–25 mins, until golden, well-risen and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Serve warm, or cool, with extra yogurt alongside, if you like.

FAVE family

COOK’S TIP

Save time and energy by using two bags of Asda Sweet & Crunchy Grated Carrot, 45p/150g, instead of shredding your own.

Leftover lamb & rice noodle salad bowl

This tangy Vietnamese-style sweet-and-sour dressing gives your roast meat a second chance to shine.

Serves 4

• 200g dried vermicelli rice noodles

• 320g carrots (about 2–3 large), peeled and cut into matchsticks (or coarsely grated)

• 1 cucumber, halved lengthways and sliced diagonally

• 1 little gem lettuce, washed and torn

• 30g pack Asda Cool & Refreshing Mint, leaves picked and torn

• 30g pack Asda Aromatic & Zesty Coriander, leaves picked

• 40g peanuts, crushed with a rolling pin

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 400g leftover roast lamb with any juices, shredded For the dressing

• 4 tsp caster sugar

• 4 tbsp fish sauce

• 4–6 limes, juiced, plus extra wedges, to serve

• 2 red chillies, finely sliced (deseeded, if you like)

• 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp reduced salt soy sauce

1 Place the rice noodles into a large bowl and cover with just-boiled water. Soak for 5–7 mins or until tender. Drain well and cover with cold water to cool.

2 Meanwhile, for the dressing, add 2 tsp sugar to a small bowl, pour over 6 tbsp just-boiled water, 3 tbsp fish sauce, 3 tbsp lime juice, the chillies and ½ the garlic. Drain the noodles and toss with 1 tbsp oil.

3 Fry remaining garlic in 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan for 2–3 mins over a mediumhigh heat, until fragrant. Stir through the leftover lamb with any juices, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tsp sugar and juice of 1 lime. Bubble for 3–5 mins, stirring until the sauce has reduced to just coat the meat.

4 Add the noodles to a serving platter (or divide between plates) with the carrot, cucumber, lettuce and most of the herbs. Spoon over the dressing and top with the lamb, finishing with remaining herbs and crushed peanuts. Serve with extra lime wedges.

Per 641g serving contains

COOK’S TIP

Use up any leftover meat or veg you fancy following the quantities below as a guide, bulking out the pie filling as needed.

Easy leftover chicken pot pie

We’ve transformed this traybake into a creamy pie filling of chicken and veg, lidded with golden pastry.

HANDS

Serves 4 |

3 out of 5 of your 5-a-dayu

• 300–500g leftover Parma ham, chicken & creamy potato traybake (p64; about 1–2 chicken breasts)

• 200–300g frozen garden peas (or a mix of any leftover greens; see tip above and recipe on p71)

• 400g tin Asda Cream of Chicken Soup

• 1 egg, beaten

• handful leftover fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, dill or mint, optional)

• 320g sheet Asda Ready Rolled Shortcrust Pastry

• plain flour (for dusting)

• green beans or any leftover veg, to serve (optional)

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7 and place the pie in a tray. Chop the leftover chicken and veg into 2cm chunks and add to a large mixing bowl with the peas (or leftover greens). Add the soup, rinsing the tin with water so it is ¼ full, then adding this as well. Mix in ½ the beaten egg and any leftover soft herbs you have, roughly chopped. Season and transfer to a 21–22cm round pie dish.

2 Unroll the pastry on a lightly-floured surface and roll more to create a rough square that is large enough to cover the pie dish generously.

3 Brush the rim of the pie dish with some of the reserved beaten egg,

then cut 1.5cm wide strips from the edges of the pastry and secure these to the rim. Brush this pastry rim with more egg, loosely drape the rest of the pastry over the filling and press around the rim to seal. Trim excess pastry and crimp to seal using floured fingers. Cut a small hole in the centre of the pastry to let steam escape, then brush with the remaining egg.

4 Put the pie onto a baking tray and bake for 5 mins. Reduce the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6 and bake for a final 30–35 mins, until golden and bubbling; cover with foil if the pastry starts to brown too quickly. Cool for 5 mins before serving with veg, if using.

u nco RKe D… sauvignon blanc

Savour this luxuriously light white wine, and let our wine expert Clive Donaldson bring a delightful touch of elegance to your springtime feast

PHOTOGRAPH DAVE CAUDREY

Sauvignon blanc is a fantastic choice, whether you’re after a luxury buy or budget bottle. So, it’s no wonder sauvignon blanc is the UK’s most popular grape variety making it the perfect spring wine, showcased here at three different price points.

It’s always dry, refreshing and bright with distinctly verdant aromas that differ depending on where the grapes are grown. France’s Loire Valley, the homeland of sauvignon blanc, offers crisp apple flavours. New Zealand varieties, especially Marlborough, bring a bold, pungent style with passion fruit and grapefruit, whereas warmer climates like Australia, South Africa, and Chile produce gentler wines with tropical fruit aromas.

Sauvignon blanc is very easy to drink on its own (best served chilled) and goes so well with green veg, such as asparagus, peas and salads, alongside sea bass or salmon. The fruitiness of New Zealand sauvignon blanc is perfect with zesty Asian flavours like lemongrass and lime.

Sauvignon blanc is grown nearly everywhere, with premium bottles produced in the Loire Valley, with its cool, sunny climate. Similar conditions yield fantastic results in New Zealand’s Marlborough and has helped boost planting in the Leyda and Casablanca Valleys in Chile and South Africa, now home to some of the most exciting grape varieties. With such a strong selection on offer, which wine will you be sipping this spring?

Deliciously dry

Le Manoir du Baron Sauvignon Blanc, £4.94/75cl

This great-value wine gives an introduction to French sauvignon blanc with enticing green apple, gooseberry and elderflower notes.

Full of freshness

Asda Extra Special Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, £7.94/75cl

A classic New Zealand wine supercharged with lemongrass, grapefruit and passion fruit flavours for a long-lasting finish.

Classically crisp

Asda Extra Special Pouilly Fumé, £15.22/75cl

Less well known than its neighbour, Sancerre, but producing elegant bottles of equal quality is this top-of-the-range French sauvignon blanc.

Clive Donaldson studied winemaking in Australia and has worked across the drinks industry. He hand-selects the finest varieties and builds best-selling brands. Clive sources our top-class bespoke bottles for us.

Fantastic

Handcrafted on award-winning Belton Farm, this cheese has a sweet and savoury flavour. Exceptional by Asda Vintage Red Fox, £2. 85/200g

Meet Andy Ruscoe-Icke, dairy manager at Belton Farm in rural Shropshire, and get a taste of his epic Exceptional by Asda Vintage Red Fox

by Asda Vintage Red Fox, £14.25/kg

When we talk about crackers for cheese, we’re not talking about water biscuits.

We’re describing the independently run Belton Farm’s dairy manager, the charming, cheesemaking Andy Ruscoe-Icke, who is never happier than when he’s holding a big wheel of cheese

‘I could talk about cheese for hours,’ proclaims Andy who’s worked in the dairy industry for a whopping 46 years. ‘My father was an awardwinning cheesemaker, so I was always munching on cheese as a child –cheese sandwiches were a staple diet for us when we were kids!’ he laughs.

‘When I left school, my dad arranged for me to go and work under different cheesemakers and learn

techniques for various styles of British territorial cheeses. So that’s how I got into the dairy industry,’ Andy shares.

Down on the farm

Fast forward and we’re with Andy at the delightful 450-acre organic, arable Belton Farm in the market town of Whitchurch, Shropshire, to talk all things Exceptional by Asda Vintage Red Fox – an 18-month red Leicesterstyle cheese, modern British that you can pick up in store and online.

‘We are very rural. If you stand in the farm, you’ve got a view of lovely rolling hills and Pan Castle, a heritage-listed castle – it’s quite a Shropshire landscape,’ Andy beams.

Like many of Asda’s long-standing suppliers, Belton Farm is a familyowned business. Stanley Beckett came

Proud of their handcrafted cheeses, the process involves handling the curd and testing the firmness to ensure quality

to the farm as a student in 1922 and decided he didn’t want to follow in the footsteps of the family’s textiles business in Manchester but that he wanted to move into farming. Shortly after, he bought the farm, and his son John carried on the tradition. It’s Justin Beckett, Belton’s managing director who is now at the helm, carrying on years of heritage, expertise and passion.

‘We’re actually going into a fourth generation because Justin’s daughter, Poppy, has just joined the business and is working in marketing,’ Andy proudly adds.

‘When Justin’s grandfather and grandmother were here, they would have made cheese in the farmhouse, but the dairy as we know it today was built in the 1970s by Justin’s father – he took it to the next level,’ he tells us.

Today, Belton has a team of 125 people, many of whom live locally. ‘We’ve got mothers and sons, uncles and nephews, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives – it’s very close-knit. Most people walk or cycle in, so we’ve got quite a big bike shed!’ Andy chuckles.

A key part to the process is handsalting the curds

‘Its subtle crunch comes from the naturally occurring calcium lactate crystals, which form as the cheese matures . ’

Chatting to Andy, you can see that cheese is his life. The quality of the product and the traditional methods he’s been careful to preserve are both an enormous part of what he takes pride in while bringing the finest wedge to a basket near you.

‘First and foremost, it’s important to have good quality milk to make good quality cheese. We’ve got great relationships with the 60-odd farmers that supply us, all within a 25-mile

radius of the site and we collect the milk daily,’ says Andy.

After pasteurising the milk in vats, Andy and his team of four cheesemakers (he tells us that between them they have 110 years’ of experience) add the cultures to start the acidification of the milk. The combination of cultures varies depending on the style of cheese that’s being made and it’s this mix that is one of the farm’s ‘secrets’.

DID YOU KNOW?

The team at Belton Farm created their unique and modern British Red Leicesterstyle cheese back in 2011, but they couldn’t think of a name. As legend would have it, there’s always been a red fox weathervane watching over them on the farm for the past 100 years, says managing director, Justin Beckett. And so, Red Fox cheese was born.

The vivid colour of Red Fox, which is how it got its name, is completely natural

Once the cheese’s acidity has been tested, annatto (a natural orangecoloured dye that comes from the seeds of the achiote tree) is added to give the Red Fox cheese its beautiful, vibrant colour. The next stage is adding rennet which is what, as Andy explains, sets the milk

‘It can take anything from 20 to 40 minutes, and it will set like a blancmange. After 20 minutes, the cheesemaker will test it to feel the consistency and firmness,’ he adds.

The magic happens

The cheese is constantly checked for quality and acidity and it’s at this stage where the magic really starts to happen: ‘As the blades go round and the cheese begins to cut, you’ll start to see the whey coming out and the

curds developing. Obviously, they’re quite big pieces when we start cutting but we continue to cut the cheese until the curds become about the size of pieces of corn,’ says Andy.

Once the curds and whey are drained, the team uses their hands to remove any excess whey. ‘We don’t use PPE gloves and that’s partly

A testing iron is used to check the flavour of the cheese, as well as its quality and maturity

because we want to feel the curd and be as gentle as possible with it. We’ve got a very good technical team that keeps us in order when it comes to hygiene and checking the cheese.’

Cheeseboard-ready

This process can last for a good few hours before it starts to resemble what we know and love. As soon as the cheesemaker is happy it has the right acidity for a Red Leicester, the salt is added. This slows down the cultures in the cheese which gives Red Fox its distinct and well-balanced caramel and savoury flavours. Its subtle crunch comes from the naturally occurring calcium lactate crystals, which form as it matures. The cheese goes into 20kg moulds and is pressed for 18 hours and tested before hitting the cold stores to begin its 18-month maturation process. The cheese is then graded specifically for Asda by Belton Farm’s expert in-house grader before being packaged up, ready for your cheeseboard.

But in Andy’s case, he has his firm favourites when it comes to enjoying Red Fox. ‘If I want something warm, I’m going to go cheese on toast – it’s a superb cheese for that. But really – for me – it’s all about Sunday afternoons with a cracker and just the cheese. Hmm, maybe a glass of wine or two…’ Cheers to that, Andy.

Foxy facts & cheese stats

8,500 80 9 30

tonnes of cheese is made at Belton Farm each year.

million litres of milk are processed a year. the number of litres of milk it takes to make 1kg of Red Fox. years (and more) Belton Farm has been supplying Asda.

BUDGET SAVVY 42P PER SERVE

Ploughman’s cheese scones

Perfectly paired with tangy pickles for a burst of flavour in every bite.

Serves 6 |

3 out of 5

• 270g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting

• pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

• 65g salted butter, cold and diced

• 125g Exceptional by Asda Vintage Red Fox cheese, grated

• 145ml semi skimmed milk, plus extra to glaze

1 Preheat the oven to 180ºC/200ºC fan/gas 6 with a baking tray on the top shelf. Cut out a sheet of baking paper the same size as your tray.

2 Sieve the flour, a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper (if using) into a bowl. Rub the diced, cold butter into the flour using your fingertips, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

3 Stir 100g of the Red Fox cheese into the mix. Make a well in the centre and add the milk, then use your hands to form it into a dough – it should be soft but not too sticky.

4 Shape the dough into a disc and turn out onto a lightly-floured work surface. Roll out to a 2.5cm thickness, then using a 7cm cutter, cut out 4 scone shapes. Set aside on a lightly-floured

surface. Re-roll the remaining dough and make 2 more scones.

5 Use a little milk to glaze the tops of the scones, then sprinkle over the remaining 25g cheese. Carefully remove the hot baking tray from the oven, add the baking paper followed by the scones. Bake for 15–20 mins until risen and golden.

6 Serve warm with extra butter smothered over, if you like, alongside some extra cheese, slices of apple, a spoonful of chutney, watercress and a few pickled onions.

Imagine... Fantastic holidays Beautiful locations Mouthwatering dishes

Exclusive holidays for life An initial payment from £5,000 and a quarterly fee of under £38 (that is around £150 a year), which can increase in line with but not exceed the Retail Price Index Excluding Mortgage Interest (RPIX), gives you access to all HPB’s holiday homes. For each HPB holiday, you will pay a no-profit user charge covering only property running and maintenance costs and use of on-site facilities. The charge is the same throughout the year – there are no high season premiums. The average charge for a studio is around £372 and around £569 for a two bedroom property, for a week. Larger properties are also available. After an initial charge of 25% your money is invested in a fund of holiday properties and securities. The fund itself meets annual charges of 2.5% of its net assets at cost, calculated monthly. Your investment return is purely in the form of holidays and, as with most investments, your capital is at risk. You can surrender your investment to the company after two years or more (subject to deferral in exceptional circumstances) but you will get back less than you invested because of the charges referred to above, as well as other overheads and changes in the value of the fund’s properties and securities.

Your passport to wonderful holiday adventures, year after year

Imagine being able to enjoy fantastic holidays in these beautiful locations. That’s exactly what over 40,000 discerning holidaymakers have already done.

The Holiday Property Bond’s portfolio currently includes more than1,500 holiday homes in over 30 exclusive UK and European destinations. Discover this refreshing new approach to the way you plan and enjoy your holidays. You can even pass the benefits on to your children and grandchildren so they will have a lifetime of wonderful holidays to look forward to.

Become a Bondholder with HPB and you could take your pick from stunning locations with a range of superb facilities every year, for life.

It’s never been easier to find out more about the Holiday Property Bond for yourself, free and without obligation.

To find out more about the Holiday Property Bond please visit

Or scan the QR code

You could win £2,500 when you find out more Enquire by 29th April 2025 and you will be entered into our prize draw to win one of six individual cash prizes totalling £3,000.

HPB EL BALCÓN DE SANTA ANA LA GOMERA

HOLKHAM BAY

HPB EL PUEBLITO DE ALFAIX ANDALUSIA

Eyes on the prize

Rock a brand new look from our latest drop of stylish specs, now available to browse and buy from Asda Opticians

At Asda Opticians, we’re all about eyewear for everyone. If you’re seeking a style shakeup this season, explore hundreds of fresh new frames, available to browse and buy in store. Whether you’re searching for a pair with a chunky rim or wire frames with retro vibes, we have glasses to suit everyone. Choose from square, cat-eye or round shapes from newly-stocked brands like Adidas, Timberland and Skechers. If contact lenses are more your thing, you can easily order them in store, or online, where you get 10% off your first order* . Whether you have a prescription from us or another optician, we’re happy to help. Simply bring in your prescription and browse our range of lenses to find the ones for you. Unsure of your prescription? Find your nearest Asda Opticians by scanning the QR code below to make an appointment using our new online booking system. Our Asda optometrists will test your vision and check your eye health in a 30-minute examination, and be on hand to advise you on new specs or contact lenses. Head to opticians.asda.com to book an eye test and get ready to find your perfect new pair.

SCAN TO book your eye test now

Get the look

All-new interiors and fashion ideas to see you through spring

Fine dining

From the Subtle Opulence range, this glassware is here to sprinkle some sparkle on those everyday moments. Whether you’re clinking in celebration, setting the table for a feast or cosying up on the sofa with a glass of something chilled, make sure you’re able to sip in style. Confetti Wine Glass, £7/2-pack; Confetti Tumbler, £6/2-pack; Confetti Hiball, £6/2-pack

Rodeo time

It ’s Barbie meets the wild, wild west with this plush pillow. Embroidered Cowboy Boot Cushion, £12

Bow peep

Trend ALERT

Style icon

Lamps just got a bold new look. And it’s battery powered. Green Stripe Scallop Shade Lamp, £14

Lemon fresh

Quench the thirst of your bouquet with this stone vase with citrus vibes. Lemon Vase, £10

THE

edit

This bow-licious cardie will look supercute with leggings and chunky boots. Bow Cardigan (1–8 years), £8

Trendy tread

Strut out in a vibey pair of red trainers with a look-at-me pink stripe. Platform Retro Trainer (UK 3–9), £18

’Tis the season to add zest to your home, refresh your look or grab a justbecause treat with our must-buys

Hold all

Always have gadgets close to hand with this hardy, retro caddy. Garden Caddy, £10

Bobble burst

When did storage get so sweet? This side table with bubble legs is a treat. Blue Bobble Side Table, £45

Animal instinct

Go wild this season with this forever fashionable number. Animal Western Jacket (size 8–24), £22

Make scents

Cherry aid

Gardening is sure to be fruitful with this pretty-in-pink tool set. 3-Piece Garden Tool Set, £16

A lively aroma of pineapple and fruit candy to take you straight to summer. Carnival Weekend Candle, £7

Bearing fruit

Dream of the Med with a pot of faux oranges ‘growing’ in your kitchen. Artificial Orange Tree, £12

Natural selection

Pile fruit high in a bowl of light wood with a decorative, leafy inside. Sanctuary Wood & Enamel Bowl, £14

Brow

tweakment

Give your eyebrows the star treatment! Rimmel Wonder’Freeze Brow Lamination Gel, £10.95*

Bring out the zing

Add a fresh new vibrancy to the table with this fun crockery. Lemon-Shaped Plate, £6

Vintage vibe

Go big on pattern with a jacket that’ll look great with jeans. Quilted Mixed Print Jacket (XS–3XL), £35

Egg hunt

Our favourite pup is back for Easter fun and games in this sweet book. Spot’s First Easter by Eric Hill, £4

Warmer days are on the way and wouldn’t you know it, the kids have grown out of literally everything. But never fear – you can grab all their sunny-day essentials for just £8 each! Smiles all round…

ALL ALL ABOARD ABOARD FOR GREAT

Stripy T-Shirt (1–8 years), £8

Plain-sailing

This adorable knitted two-piece, complete with nautical stripes and super-cute bows, will leave them looking ship-shape. Comfy and cool? Aye-aye, captain!

Knitted Dress, £8

Cute as a bunny Hop into spring with all the practical pieces like this sky-blue mac with adorable rabbit detailing. Teamed with a denim bucket hat, your little one will feel prepped for anything, rain or shine.

Bunny Mac, £8; Floral Dress, £8

WI n £250 to spen D at As DA

IN OUR SURVEY

Spend just 10 minutes of your time telling us what you think and be in with a chance of winning big – it’s simple!

Each issue, we love to know what caught your eye in Asda Magazine. Was there a recipe that your family devoured or a hack that you found handy? Or perhaps there was something you felt missed the mark this time? Whatever your thoughts, we want you to spill the beans. Your honest feedback gives you the chance to help us shape future issues of the mag. Readers who complete our questionnaire will automatically be entered to win our top prize, a £250 Asda gift card, to put towards your food shop or even fashion and homeware treats from George. Two runners up prizes of £50 and £25 gift cards will also be awarded. What are you waiting for? Head to asdamagsurvey.com or scan the QR code below and take just 10 minutes to fill in the survey to be in with the chance of nabbing a prize. All answers must be received by 11.59pm on 10 May 2025. Head online to share your thoughts!

asdamagsurvey.com to enter our survey – you could win big!

Boho chic

Floaty maxi dresses are lovely to breeze about in during the summer. Feel light and floaty at the next barbecue or school sports day – because this one’s a winner!

PAGE

OPPOSITE PAGE

THIS

Floral Chiffon Dress (size 8–24), £26

Animal Quilted Jacket (size 8–24), £30; Ramones Animal Print Tee (size 8–24), £14

RIGHT Boho Blouse (size 8–24), £20

BELOW Quilted Tie Front Jacket (size 8–24), £28; Animal Print Broderie

Sleeve Midi Dress (size 8–24), £20

OPPOSITE PAGE

Wild West Graphic Tee (size XS–3XL), £8 ; Indigo Barrel Jeans (size 8–24), £22; Metallic Western Boots (UK 3–9), £26

Howdy, par tner

Cowboy-core is here to stay so keep things cool and casual with a graphic tee and denim blue barrel leg jeans. Don’t be afraid to go full western and round off your look with a pair of silver cowboy boots and a widebrimmed hat .

ULTRA DYNAMIC LENSES

Frames by Rayban®, Transitions® lenses in Ruby.

Tra sitio s®

u .

Emerald Amber Grey Brown Graphite Green Sapphire Amethyst Ruby

Daisy fresh

For that just-blown-in spring feeling, Stacey Solomon’s new collection provides happy, new-season feels

Daisy Mixing Bowl, £14; Daisy Dinner Set 12-piece, £35; White Washed Placemats 2-pack £6; Brushed Gold Cutlery Set 16-piece, £16

Artichoke Bowl, £14; Printed Rose Frill Cushion, £9; Ruffle Seersucker Stripe Cushion, £10; Gingham Frill Cushion, £10; Gingham Throw, £15; Hammered Glass Lamp, £28

PLANT POWER

Fresh or artificial flowers and potted plants can bring the wonders of the outside indoors.

Blossom inside

As spring approaches, embrace the new season with subtle yet stylish touches. Think unfussy checks and stripes, gentle pastels, and flirty frills on cushions. Tend to your tablescape and add a floral flourish with dinner plates and fruit bowls adorned with charming daisy designs. Get creative with posies of flowers to enhance the ambience. Even your bakes can celebrate spring, with fun floral indents at the base of muffin tins making their mark.

ABOVE Daisy Mixing Bowl, £14; Daisy Dinner Set, £35; Daisy Pasta Bowl, £4; White Washed Placemats 2-pack £6; Linen Napkins 4-pack, £6; Brushed Gold Cutlery Set 16-piece, £16

LEFT Daisy Platter, £10; Daisy Bowl, £4; Daisy Muffin Tray 12-hole, £7

Blissful spring

Adding new accents to spaces like the bedroom and bathroom is where the fun truly begins. Imagine daisies and rosebuds blooming and peachy frills for a gentle seasonal aesthetic. Soft spring hues create a calming, soothing mood, while playful, funshaped crockery adds delightful touches to the table that are sure to make the family smile. Pretty patterns, from florals to gingham, and a palette of pinks all usher in the new season and work just as well in the dining room as the bedroom. In the bathroom, itʼs the little touches thatʼll bring your vision together, so choose coordinating sets for the ultimate spa feel.

Scallop Textured Hand Towel, £5; Scallop Textured Bath Towel £8; Scallop Textured Bath Sheet, £12; Beaded Soap Dispenser, £6; Beaded Tray, £8; Beaded Soap Dish, £3

THROW SOME SHADES

Crushin’ on a hue?

Stick to two main tones, with pops of a third, in bedrooms.

ABOVE Peach Frill Duvet Cover Set: Single, £16; Double, £20; King, £24; Super King, £28; Peach Cushion, £10

LEFT White Washed Placemats 2-pack, £6; Brushed Gold Cutlery Set 16-piece, £16; Beaded Egg-Shaped Plate, £4; Beaded Bunny-Shaped Plate, £4; Bunny Egg Cup, £4; Pink Napkins 4-pack, £7; Pink Tablecloth, £16; Bow Napkin Rings 4-pack, £10

What happens in the Solomon/Swash household at Easter?

̒We’ve poured loads of love into this collection’

It’s the traditions that make it so special. We get the family around and Joe puts on his big bunny costume to hide the golden egg in the garden. If you catch Joe the Bunny, you win a tenner! So literally every child – from the bigger boys to the little ones – chase Joe like crazy.

What elements of Easter have inspired you to come up with this collection?

I love seeing the garden at Pickle Cottage come to life during springtime. We’ve taken inspiration from that again – the fresh greens, pops of pastel and the prettiest illustrations of everything from bees to daisies. While it’s our spring collection, it’s important these designs can work in people’s homes all year round.

What are your tips for a spring refresh at home?

I like that you can make a room feel completely different with just a few small tweaks. The daisy throws and striped cushions from the range are great for adding quick colour into your space this spring.

We love the idea of gifting some of your products to grown-ups, instead of Easter eggs. We’ve got chocolate coming out of our ears at Easter, so I love this idea! This collection has a handful of faux flowers in beautiful vases which I think would make a thoughtful gift. The natural dried pampas, faux daises and mini dried florals are all quite different, so you can pick something that fits in with the person’s style.

What are your favourite pieces from the Easter homes collection?

It’s honestly so hard to pick... I always love designing the bedding because people seem to love it, and I’m obsessed with the yellow stripe ruffle design in this collection. The quality and value are amazing, and it changes the entire feel of your bedroom. And, you may have noticed – I can’t resist anything with a bunny! The bunny eggcups and little white bunny ornament are so gorgeous. Me and the George Home team have poured loads of love into this collection, and I hope you love it as much as I do.

Get set for a springtime spruce-up! Drench your home with bright and beautiful colour combos and clashing prints for styling with real pizzazz

Candycrush

SO PLUSH Cushions in different patterns add a dynamic

MAIN Lucky Charm Diamond Cushion, £12; Flower Checkerboard Cushion, £12; Lucky Me Slogan Cushion, £10; Quilted Basketweave Cushion, £12; Oblong Scallop Checkerboard Cushion, £12; Furry Dice Shaped Cushion, £14; Grid Tufted Cushion, £12; Pink Bobble Bowl, £8; Striped Vase, £12; Bulb Lamp, £9

Colour me happy

Your spring shades theme calls for unabashed brights and cheerful patterns to bring in that timely seasonal refresh (we’re all about bold stripes and clashing colours). Swap in new towels as an affordable, yet effective way to perk up your bathroom with fabulous florals and adorable love hearts. And now’s the time to elevate your hosting game by dressing the dining table with textured, sunset-hued coupes and complementary crockery for those pops of pink. Easter lunch, here we come...

POT LUCK

A statement vase or plant pot will tie the table together with a subtle nod to the season.

LEFT Pink Reactive Glaze Dinner Set, £35; Coupe Glasses, £3; Green Striped Vase, £12

RIGHT Pink Dispenser, £6, Blue Tumbler, £4; Strawberry Trinket Pot, £6; Lucky Charm Flower Hand Towel, £4, Bath Towel, £7; Bath Sheet, £10; Lucky Charm Hearts Hand Towel, £4, Bath Towel, £7; Bath Sheet, £10; Lucky Charm Groovy Hand Towel, £4*, Bath Towel, £7 *; Bath Sheet, £10*; Lucky Charm Yellow Round Mirror, £14; Wiggle Bedside Table, £45

BELOW Pink Reactive Glaze Dinner Set, £35; Coupe Glasses, £3; Dark Green Handle Cutlery Set, £14*

RIGHT Pinsonic Hexagonal Patch

Duvet Cover Set: Single, £10, Double, £12 , King, £14, Super King, £16; Lucky Charm Crochet Cushion, £12; Grid Tufted Cushion, £10

BELOW RIGHT Floral Heart Duvet Cover Set: Single, £10, Double, £12 , King, £14, Super King, £16; Light Pink Pillowcase, £1.85; Double Scallop Edge Cushion, £10; Frill Stripe Heart Cushion, £10; Heart Flower-Shaped Cushion, £8

BELOW Green Striped Vase, £12

Feel good

From houseplants to fun-filled family time, live your best spring with us

Living decor

They’re not just there to look pretty, indoor plants are said to improve your mood by creating a sense of calm and wellbeing. With a touch of nature’s grace and a breath of fresh air in a forgotten corner, you’ll discover that houseplants are much more than just a lovely leaf, especially when perched in a pleasing pot.

Striped Planter, £9; Green Woodcut Plant Pot, £6; Tall Teal Angled Planter, £8; Brown Woodcut Plant Pot, £6

LIVE BESTyour

SPRING

Our simple self-care tips and life hacks are easy ways to kickstart a fresh phase for a new season

WORDS LOU CASSELL

SHOULD I… try to lower my cholesterol?

Ellie Howard, Asda Nutritionist

Cholesterol is a fatty substance created in the liver and has several functions in the body. However, high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and strokes. Following a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce this risk and lower cholesterol. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats helps to maintain normal cholesterol levels. Eat avocados, which are high in unsaturated fats, or swap butter for olive oil* when cooking. Fruit and veg contain compounds called plant sterols, and eating 2g of these per day can help reduce cholesterol. They are found in nuts, some veg and seeds, and in drinkable yogurts, which are really convenient**. The beta-glucan in oats helps to prevent the absorption of cholesterol, so prep overnight oats with yogurt and fruit for breakfast.

If you want to make positive changes to your diet, look to add more products to your basket with the Live Better icon, which are the healthiest choices in our range.

Asda Creamy & Nutty Avocados, 2-pack

Asda Cholesterol

Lowering Strawberry Flavour Yogurt Drinks, £2.50/6-pack

Asda Scottish Porridge Oats, £1.25/1kg

‘Weightlifting makes me feel stronger and relieves stress’

At the age of 52, and post-menopause, I started lifting weights to tone up my body and safeguard my bone density. I did a six-week programme of 30 workouts in my living room following YouTube videos and didn’t tell anyone until afterwards. I felt amazing! It was good for my mental health, too. I’ve carried on doing it a few times a week. I feel stronger and happy that I’m keeping fit. I’m going to become a grandparent soon, so I’ll need to stay that way!’

Caroline, Asda customer from Northamptonshire

Share your wellbeing story

Do you have a new hobby that brings you joy? Or a healthy habit that’s made a positive impact in your life? Send your experiences to asdamagazineeditor@asda.uk for a chance to be featured in the magazine.

Myth buster: Does sweating mean you’re burning calories? Not always. It’s just your body’s way of cooling down during exercise and when you’re overheating. Exercises like swimming and weightlifting might mean you don’t sweat as much, but it ’s still an intense workout.+

4 WAYS TO SOOTHE HAYFEVER

Has the pollen season got you feeling in a funk? Try these simple solutions to dodge the worst of it.^

Nasal spray Blocked noses be gone with this handy remedy. Fusion

Allergy Nasal Spray, £9.48/20ml Eye drops To help alleviate itchiness and redness. Fusion Allergy Eye Drops, £9.48/15x0.5ml

EASY WINS

Wellbeing tips to help you find your flow Journalling ...writing down your worries can help you process your thoughts and reduce feelings of stress.

Daylight saving ...means we now enjoy more hours of sunlight! Make the most of the lighter evenings and soak up some extra vitamin D.

Meal prepping ...on the weekends using the best ingredients for your budget will help you manage nutrition and save time on busy weeknights.

Allergy medicine Take one tablet a day to relieve symptoms. Asda Allergy & Hayfever Relief, £2.94/30-pack

Vaseline

Smear it under your nose to help trap pollen. Vaseline Lip Therapy Original Lip Balm Tin, £1.25/20g

21 easy ways

to entertain the

kids

Wondering how you’re going to keep the family amused over the Easter holidays? Asda customers have got you covered…

WORDS ALEX DREW

1. HOLD THE EGG OLYMPICS

‘My boys love to decorate hardboiled eggs to look like family members, then roll them to see whose goes the furthest. We hold little tournaments to see which egg character is the best roller. It can easily take up a whole afternoon!’ Georgina, Cheltenham

2

HOST AN EASTER EGG HUNT

BAKE UP A STORM

‘I’ve baked with my daughters since they were little, and we’ve collected our recipes into a folder that we add to all the time. Favourites include the Chocolate sandwich flapjack bars [July/August 2024] and the Sprinkles sponge [March/April 2024] from Asda Magazine. Baking with them can easily take up a morning – the clear-up is a little longer.’ Ally, Swindon

‘You can’t beat a classic Easter-egg hunt. I’ve held them in our little garden, in the local park and even in our house!’

Marc, Cardiff

Do some window dressing

‘My three love to decorate our sitting-room window for big seasonal occasions like Halloween and Christmas. My youngest adores rabbits, so Easter is an absolute favourite. They’ll spend an afternoon drawing pictures and cutting out shapes from tissue paper to stick on the window to make a colourful, eye-catching display.’ Gemma, Melksham

8

Visit a farm

PLAY WILDLIFE BINGO

‘Take the family out on a country walk with a list of things to track down –species of trees, birds and insects – ticking them off the list as they’re spotted. You could give them a tiny chocolate egg for each thing they tick off their list.’

Julie, Warrington

6. Rustle up some rock art!

‘My two used to love collecting rocks and pebbles and painting them with Easterthemed images. Colourful eggs were the favourite, but they also did bunnies and chicks…’ Jenny, Folkestone

7. Make an Easter tree

‘I take my lot out to look for the best wobbly stick they can find and then we take it home to be painted and decorated with bits of ribbon, stickers, glitter and mini-Easter eggs.’ Kat, Manchester

‘It’s the best time of year to visit our community farm because there are loads of baby animals! My two love watching the sheep and alpacas roaming around.’ Val, Reading

lots of lovely seeds ready to go in pots – including sunflowers, which are their favourite.’ Barry, Glasgow

Asda Easter Chick Gingerbread Biscuit Kit, £2.48/300g

Decorate tasty treats

‘I haven’t met a preschooler who doesn’t love a biscuitdecorating kit, with those little tubes of icing. I’ve used them at parties and play dates. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.’ Paul, The New Forest

11 BREAKFAST IN BED

‘I love those lazy mornings during the school holidays. My kids have got really into cooking, so sometimes they’ll treat me to breakfast in bed. Those thick, fluffy pancakes are my absolute favourite.’ Alison, Winchester

13

DO A BLIND TASTE TEST

12. FEED THE BIRDS!

‘Last year, I raided the recycling with my daughter and built a bird feeder out of an empty plastic bottle. I pierced some holes to add sticks for perches and threaded through string to hang it in the garden, then filled it with seeds. She loved watching all the birds!’ Steve, Kidderminster

‘ When mine were primary-school age, I’d set up rows of bowls containing different foods hidden under teatowels, blindfold them and get them to guess what they were touching/sniffing/eating. They loved it!’ John, Paignton

14. Arrange a mini tournament

‘Last year I invited the whole family over and held a mini ‘Egg-lympics’ for all the children. There was a bunny-hop contest, an Easter-egg-and-spoon race, egg juggling, and any other silly challenges I could think of. It was great, even though I’m pretty sure some of the adults cheated…’ Sarah, York

15 Hold a rainy-day disco!

‘If the weather isn’t playing ball, I’ve been known to draw the curtains, dig out our disco light, and dial the music right up for a couple of hours of throwing some shapes. It’s a great way for everyone to burn off some energy.’ Ellie, Huddersfield

16 GO GEOCACHING

‘We’re big fans of geocaching in our house. It’s like a treasure hunt but using a free app to track down ‘caches’, which are little containers holding a logbook and small tokens. It’s a great way to get everyone outside.’

Geocaching.com Tom, Bath

George Home SilverTone Disco Ball Battery Light, £6

BUILD A DEN

‘If I can manage to hang a sheet securely in our living room, my kids will happily play under it for hours. They’ll even have a picnic lunch or tea under there… with all their toys, of course.’ Harriet, Chippenham

17 ZAP SOME BARCODES!

‘ Sometimes, we still need to get things done with the kids in tow. Asda’s Scan & Go often comes to the rescue, it’s fun, techy and interactive. My son loves to take the scanner and help zap things from our shopping list. He goes full super-spy, hiding round corners.’ Lucy, Bristol

18. HOLD A MOVIE NIGHT

Giles & Posner Pastel Popcorn Maker and Measuring Cup, £21

21

‘Hold

20. Make hotchoccie egg ‘bombs’

‘Last year, we took small, hollow chocolate eggs and separated them into halves (or made a hole in the top) and filled them with hot chocolate powder and mini marshmallows before melting them back together and putting them in mugs of warm milk. It was so much fun.’

Finn, Edinburgh

an Easter

‘We love any excuse to cuddle up on the sofa as a family, even though my children are teenagers now. I buy in loads of snacks and drinks and snuggle down under a blanket.’ Helena, Oxford

‘crafternoon’. Raid the recycling, get out the glue and paint, and let the imaginations run wild.’

Becky, Royal Tunbridge Wells

CHATTING WITH CHAMPIONS

‘Our service helps people to find a community again’

A service in Wales supports those who have experienced domestic abuse, with the help of their local Asda community champion

WORDS LOUISA STREETING

Meet Rachel

An Asda Community Champion based in North Wales who has been in the role since 2021.

Meet Lynn & Fiona

Project Managers at Aberconwy Domestic Abuse Service who have a combined 50 years’ experience working at the agency.

One in five people in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime*. One Asda store in North Wales has been a dedicated supporter of Aberconwy Domestic Abuse Service for 10 years, recently donating £1,600 to the project. Founded in 1992, this lifeline service provides refuge, counselling, and support to victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

Lynn: I can’t believe that we’ve been working with Asda for nearly 10 years. You, in particular, Rachel, have been so proactive in supporting us.

Rachel: I love giving back to my community. This job is 100% made for me and has really helped me flourish. Having used the Aberconwy Domestic Abuse Service myself, I know how important it is when you need help.

Fiona: Our service supports adults and children of all genders, but the

reality about domestic abuse is that most victims are women, and most perpetrators are men*. A woman will return to their abusive partner seven times, on average+, which is hard for people to understand.

Lynn: The families stay with us at the refuge until it’s safe for them to return home or they’re rehoused. Each week, we provide counselling to around 50 people who have experienced domestic abuse. And we offer 12week programmes for women and a 10-week course to help young people aged 4–25 who are affected.

Rachel: We offer different support, whether that’s a grant from the Asda Foundation or offering help in store.

Fiona: You always help us to collect donations of important provisions that we then distribute to those who need them in our local area.

Rachel: Recently, Asda’s donations of cleaning essentials, toiletries and

brand-new bedding have made a massive difference in the refuge. We also hosted another Christmas toy appeal last year. How many did we help in the end?

Lynn: About 70 families. We were so touched!

Fiona: Thanks to the generosity of Asda customers, we had so many toys to give to the children in the area.

Lynn: We’re always grateful for any donation, no matter how big or small. Due to the increase in young families at the refuge, we were falling short of storage space, so we used Asda’s grant of £1,600 to build a shed to safely store prams and bikes.

All smiles as Rachel awards the team a £1,600 cheque from the Asda Foundation

Rachel: The rest of the grant money was put towards the craft sessions.

Fiona: Yes. If you’ve been in an abusive relationship, you can feel very isolated. Our craft, book and hiking clubs enrich the lives of the people who use the service and help them to find a community again.

Rachel: There’s definitely a shared understanding at these sessions. It feels like a close family.

Fiona: And it’s relaxing. At our book club, there’s one lady who doesn’t really enjoy reading – she prefers to watch the film adaptation – but she just feels so at home in the group.

Lynn: It’s so important for their wellbeing. When you see a family come into the refuge with very little, to then be resettled back in the community and thrive – it’s a rewarding part of the job.

‘If you’ve been in an abusive relationship, you can feel very isolated from people.’

Rachel: You ladies change lives. Cheryl [Dixon, Project Manager], who sadly passed away in December last year, was such an integral part of my personal journey with Aberconwy Domestic Abuse Services. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I hope we continue her legacy.

Lynn: It’s a huge adjustment for us all right now, she is so greatly missed. We’re all carrying on in her honour.

Rachel: It takes a lot of strength to do your roles. You’re both so supportive and incredible at what you do. People aren’t always aware of the services you provide so I’m always trying to spread the word in store and in the community. The relationship will always be there.

Lynn: We do what we do because we love it. We’ll always be eternally grateful to you, Rachel, and to Asda, for all the donations and support.

Fiona: It’s an amazing partnership that we are deeply thankful for.

Lynn: One we never want to lose.

heLp Is heRe

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this feature or know someone who is in need of support, head to nationaldahelpline.org.uk or call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline 24/7 on 0808 2000 247.

A volunteer elf has a car boot full of presents to gift to affected children

Change is just a click away!

Want help smashing your wellness goals? Specialist support is on hand with Asda Online Doctor’s Weight Loss Service

We all know how important it is to stay healthy and live our best lives, but let’s be honest – keeping up with healthy habits isn’t always easy. Eating well and sticking to a fitness routine can feel like a full-time job. But there is help at hand with Asda Online Doctor’s weight loss service.

Imagine having a real GP in your corner, supporting you at every step of your weight loss journey. Well, with our specialist online service you get personalised guidance tailored just for you, available whenever you need it. This isn’t just about shedding pounds; it’s about embracing a healthier lifestyle with the help of fully qualified professionals.

Everyone’s health journey is unique. That’s why our service is

designed to fit right into your busy life. You’ll receive a free weight loss support pack, crafted by our in-house nutritionist and doctors, to give you the best shot at success. Plus, with access to a total of 242 pharmacies, getting the support you need has never been easier.

Want to chat to a professional about your health goals, but no time to go in person? The Asda Online Doctor service connects you with NHS doctors who are ready to help you reach your goals in a way that’s super-convenient and effective.

So why not take the first step towards a healthier you? Give the Asda Online Doctor’s weight loss service a try – scan the QR code to find out the price of your plan and start your journey to a better lifestyle.

It’s just what the doctor ordered…

Convenient online service – easy to access, from anywhere, anytime

Free weight loss support pack developed by our doctors and nutritionist

Get free advice and support from a doctor via your private online account

Discreet, online access, no need to make in-person appointments

Flexible weight-loss plan to suit your busy lifestyle

It’s so easy! Scan the QR code to book a spot with Asda Pharmacy and kickstart your plan

COMING NEXT ISSUE

BBQ BOOSTERS

The only recipes you’ll need for next-level grill skills

LET’S EAT OUTSIDE…

...tasty, portable picnic dishes for everyone

Your Monday–Friday family meals at great prices, sorted FREE in storesAsdafrom June

FEED FOUR FOR £25

What’s on my plate…

We catch up with best-selling children’s author and pop sensation

Tom Fletcher, during a whirlwind year

WORDS LOUISA STREETING

What first inspired your dinosaur kids’ books?

I was eight years old when Jurassic Park was released, and it fuelled a fascination with dinosaurs that spawned The Christmasaurus and The Dinosaur that Pooped series. There’s something so mystical about them.

How is it writing with your bandmate, Dougie? It ’s very similar to our McFly songwriting partnership as it’s a lot like writing lyrics, but we have the freedom to write about silly stuff –like dinosaurs, poop and superheroes – that doesn’t go into our music. That element is really freeing and fun, with a beautiful friendship between the boy and the dinosaur at the heart of it. We’re 13 books into The Dinosaur that Pooped series, and it’s still just as easy to write now since we first started.

Best thing about being a children’s book author?

It can be quite a nerve-wracking experience, to be honest, because kids don’t lie. Reading in front of a school is 100 times more terrifying than stepping on stage at the O2. If they don’t like the story, they’ll tell you. But that’s also what is so rewarding, when you get those big belly laughs from the kids because you just said something

about a dinosaur pooping. I’m very lucky I’ve got three very different kids of my own – an in-house test audience!

How would you encourage families to read together?

I know it can be a bit of a challenge as I have one kid who’s a keen reader and another who can be a little reluctant. It’s trial and error finding books, fiction or non-fiction, that will resonate with them as well as carving out dedicated time to read. It’s the last thing we do before we say goodnight.

Fave on-the-road snack?

Candy Kittens. On The Voice, Danny Jones and I would tip them into the cupholders in the big red chairs for a boost during filming.

What’s your family’s Easter tradition?

We’ve started an Easter tree. The kids go out in the garden to find the biggest stick they can, put it in a plant pot, and decorate it with colourful eggs and stickers.

Anything else in store for 2025?

It’s a busy time! On top of releasing a new book and going on tour with

McFly and Busted, I have been writing the music and lyrics for Paddington the Musical. It’s a real pinch-me project; everybody loves Paddington. It ’ll make everyone cry when they see him walk out on that West End stage. Prepare for total theatre magic!

The Dinosaur that Pooped Easter by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter (published by Puffin) is out in Asda, £4

5 quick-fire questions

If you were a pudding... I’d be a peanut butter cheesecake – anything with peanut butter in.

Scrambled, fried or poached?

We’ve got our own chickens, so I love scrambled using fresh eggs with chorizo and lots of butter.

What’s always in your basket?

Bananas and oranges. We get through so many with three kids.

Favourite cooking hack?

When butter is too cold, rub a fine sieve over the top to make it instantly spreadable.

Go-to comfort meal? Beans on toast with Marmite and chilli cheese and a glass of white wine.