• When you flatten a chicken breast, it not only gives it a uniform thickness but also tenderizes the meat by breaking down some of the fibres.

• Do not add baking soda to beans to soften it because it actually prevents the beans from absorbing moisture and may also destroy some nutrients.

• When buying zucchini look for one with a firm texture and glossy bright colour. Any zucchini that feels limp has lost flavour and texture.

• To rejuvenate muffins that have been sitting around for a while, heat them in the microwave oven just long enough to warm them.

• Citrus skin contains oils that have intense flavour that can brighten up many a sweet or savoury recipe.

• While using the zest or peel of an orange, lemon or lime, use only the very thin outer coloured layer and not the bitter white pith.

• Rinse the strawberries with the hulls attached since they prevent the water from breaking down the texture and flavour inside the berries.

• Never defrost fish, chicken or meat at room temperature - the surface temperature rises to a point where bacteria can multiply before the centre is thawed.