◆ egg whites

Egg whites freeze well, and defrosted egg whites whisk up better than fresh. You could also make meringues in the microwave, perfect for crushing over other desserts or making into an Eton mess with whipped cream.

Cheat’s microwaved meringues

Mix 1 egg white with 300g sifted icing sugar until you have a thick icing. Roll into six balls and place three on a piece of baking parchment.

Microwave on high for 1 min 30 seconds and watch as they puff up into crisp meringues. Repeat with the two remaining balls. Will keep for up to two days in an airtight container.