Our perfect dinner party

Broadcaster Nick Grimshaw and Michelin-star chef Angela Hartnett, hosts of the Dish podcast from Waitrose, reveal what really makes a great night in

-  HANNAH BRITT

DON'T OVERCOMPLICATE THINGS...

Angela: Cook something easy. So many people get stressed about it, making it too fancy and acting like they're on MasterChef. Just stick to something simple. You don't want to be spending your whole evening in the kitchen.

Nick: I'm guilty of this. I always try to do a recipe I've never done before, which is a terrible idea, because I'm then trying to concentrate (is that a teaspoon or a tablespoon?!) when I should be having fun with my friends.

You've never been to anyone’ house and thought “Well this better be good” have you? People are just happy to be cooked for.

MALTESERS FOR PUD

Angela: As a starter 1 would do something cold - a really easy salad, with something seasonal like pumpkin or beetroot. For the main, perhaps a one-pot wonder chicken, cooked with rice and spice. And then for dessert, a box of Maltesers or some cheese.

Nick: I love crab on toast because the fishmongers do the hard work for you and you just have to add some nice mayonnaise with some watercress on top. Then chicken in a creamy tarragon sauce, with roast potatoes and a lovely salad. Crumble to finish.

CROWD-PLEASING COCKTAILS