If you’re going on holiday with a group of colleagues, friends or family, we’ve got some tips and tricks to help make the process as smooth and as stress-free as possible.

1. Keep things simple

Cooking for groups is not the time to start experimenting with fancy recipes. Just stick to tried and tested things you already know how to cook.

2. Make it adaptable

Check on any special diets you need to include before preparing your menu. Make something that can easily be adapted for vegetarians, vegans, or those who can’t eat certain meats. Try pasta or chilli, a hearty casserole.

3. Plan/Cook ahead

Any planning and prep you fit in before you go will save you time and stress, leaving you to focus on your event while you’re here. Can you cook up a main meal, pre-prep some veg, bring some frozen desserts?

4. Make everyone your sous-chefs

Give small tasks to other members on your trip. Delegate a table as a peeling and grating station or get someone started on the salad. Washing up is more fun when it’s shared.

5. Use a buffet approach

Set up a buffet outside and let your participants serve themselves when they’re ready. A buffet approach can help foster a more relaxed feel.

6. Finger food essentials

Although your main meal might be the showstopper, putting nibbles out can keep people’s hunger at bay. You don’t need to go too elaborate, think crisps, olives and cheeses, they always go down a treat.

7. One pot wonders

Try something like a big casserole or hot pot, a chilli or a pasta bake – can prepare in advance and doesn’t need perfect timing or last minute faffing.

8. Keep it safe

Remember the basics of food hygiene. Keep foods properly cold (in fridge or freezer) or properly hot (oven, stove or hot cupboard). Wash hands regularly and keep anyone with diarrhoea or vomiting well away from the kitchen. Cook thoroughly, don’t let raw meats cross-contaminate uncooked foods and the golden rule “if in doubt, throw it out”.