Renowned Australian cookbook author and food stylist Donna Hay has been delighting palates around the world with her modern, elegant, and approachable recipes. With a focus on simplicity, quality ingredients, and stunning presentation, Donna Hay’s dishes are perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on global cuisine, we’ve curated 20 of Donna Hay’s most mouthwatering recipes that are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
In this article, we’ll take you through a selection of Donna Hay’s most popular and beloved recipes, from the comforting Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken to the decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking for inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress.
Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bright and flavorful lemon and herb roasted chicken recipe, perfect for a family gathering or casual evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Rich, velvety chocolate and nutty hazelnuts come together in a match made in heaven. This tart is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Add chopped hazelnuts and stir until well combined.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Whisk together eggs and vanilla extract; add to melted chocolate and mix until smooth.
6. Pour filling into pie crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil on a bed of al dente spaghetti. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with garlic-infused olive oil in the skillet. Toss to combine, adding salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Red Wine Pie
A hearty and comforting pie filled with tender beef, rich red wine, and flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef shin or chuck, cut into 2cm cubes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 250ml red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 100ml beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, brown the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
3. Add the onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 23cm (9-inch) pie dish. Fill with the beef mixture and top with another sheet of pastry.
5. Brush the top with beaten egg and cut a few slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
A creamy and sweet Italian dessert, Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta is a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe combines the richness of cream with the subtle flavor of vanilla bean for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste (or 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and paste (or scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean).
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the chilled panna cotta into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating), 4+ hours (chilling)
Pumpkin and Feta Salad
Pumpkin and Feta Salad Recipe
A refreshing autumn salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted pumpkin, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your entertaining with this sweet and savory tart that’s perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the center of the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Thai Green Curry with Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this classic green curry recipe featuring juicy chicken and fragrant spices. This dish is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, and lime juice. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the pan; cook until coated with curry sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Raspberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake
This cheesecake combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of raspberries, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
5. Fold melted white chocolate into cheesecake mixture.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan; top with raspberries.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until center is set.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this simple and impressive recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, dill, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread herb butter on top of each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Roasted Beetroot and Quinoa Salad
Sweet and earthy roasted beetroot pairs perfectly with nutty quinoa, crunchy walnuts, and tangy goat cheese in this vibrant salad. A perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beetroot in foil, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted beetroot, chopped walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
6. Whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey.
7. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lemon and Blueberry Loaf Cake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon and blueberry loaf cake. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, lemon juice, and yogurt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pork Belly with Apple Slaw
Discover the sweet and savory combination of slow-cooked pork belly paired with a refreshing apple slaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
6. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the apple slaw by combining diced apples, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
8. Serve the pork belly with the apple slaw spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (slow cooking) + 30 minutes (prep time)
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Celebrate the simplicity of summer with this classic Italian appetizer, featuring juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy snack or as a starter for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and slightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are a staple for any sweet tooth craving. With just the right balance of crispy edges and gooey chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lamb Rack with Mint Pesto
Elevate your dinner party with this refreshing and flavorful lamb rack recipe, perfectly seasoned with a bright and herby mint pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb rack (6-8 bones), Frenched
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor or blender, combine mint leaves, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Process until smooth.
3. Season the lamb rack with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the mint pesto evenly over the lamb rack, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place the lamb rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Pear and Almond Cake
A moist and flavorful cake that combines the sweetness of pears with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a special occasion or everyday delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and almonds.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add diced pears to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the dry ingredients mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Prawn and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines succulent prawns with creamy avocado, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the prawns to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado and chopped cilantro.
5. To assemble the salad, place the cooked prawns on top of the avocado mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cauliflower and Cheese Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of roasted cauliflower and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a rich and velvety texture that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp works best)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
4. Add roasted cauliflower, broth, and grated cheese to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Strawberry and Rhubarb Crumble
This sweet and tangy crumble combines the flavors of fresh strawberries and rhubarb with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for a warm spring or summer dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb. Add granulated sugar, flour, and salt; toss until well coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 scrumptious Donna Hay recipes, perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort foods like Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil and Beef and Red Wine Pie, to sweet treats like Raspberry and White Chocolate Cheesecake and Pear and Almond Cake, there’s something for everyone. Elevate your meals with flavorful dishes like Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken and Thai Green Curry with Chicken, or impress your guests with show-stopping desserts like Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta. Whatever the occasion, these recipes are sure to please!
