Shell Yeah! Recipes for Easter Weekend, Vol 2.

Low-effort luxury with a seaside twist.

Our Easter recipes continue. If you’re looking to kick off Easter lunch with something light but luxurious, crab on toast with blood orange and fennel salad makes a stunning starter. The sweet crab meat, sharp citrus, and delicate fennel create a bright, elegant plate that tastes like spring – without demanding too much effort in the kitchen.

Then, when the feasting is done and you’re deep in the soft lull of the long weekend, eggs with anchovy butter is the kind of lazy-day dish that feels like a little secret indulgence. Rich, salty, and silky-smooth, it’s made for scooping up with good bread and eating slowly, maybe with coffee in hand and not much else on the agenda.

Crab on Toast with Blood Orange & Fennel Salad

Ingredients

• Fresh or tinned crab meat, roughly smashed
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
• ¼ blood orange or grapefruit, peeled and segmented (optional)
• 2 slices White Country Sourdough, toasted
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. In a bowl, mix the crab meat with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Toast the sourdough slices until golden and crisp.
3. Spoon the crab mixture generously over each slice of toast.
4. For the salad, toss the fennel with olive oil, lemon juice, the remaining parsley, salt, and pepper. Add blood orange or grapefruit segments, if using.
5. Serve the toast alongside the salad for a fresh, bright contrast.

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Eggs & Anchovy Butter on Toasted Sourdough

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• Salted butter
• Tinned anchovies
• Chives, finely chopped
• 2 slices White Country Sourdough, toasted
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. Soft boil the eggs for 6 minutes, then cool slightly and peel.
2. Toast the sourdough slices.
3. Generously butter one side of each toast slice.
4. Lay anchovies across the buttered toast to cover fully.
5. Halve the soft-boiled eggs and place one on each slice.
6. Sprinkle with chopped chives and season with salt and pepper.

Rye to go! Toppings that make every bite better

Rye bread is one of the most underrated and overlooked loaves. With its rich, hearty texture and slightly tangy flavour, rye bread makes the perfect base for a wide variety of toppings. Here are a few of our favourite combinations to fall in ‘loaf’ with your rye.

1. Smashed Avocado with Parsley and Olive Oil

Looking for a fresh, satisfying snack? This simple topping brings the creamy goodness of avocado to life with a touch of fragrant parsley and the richness of olive oil.

How to make it:

• Mash half an avocado and spread it generously over a slice of toasted rye bread.
• Drizzle with a good-quality olive oil, and season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
• Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of green freshness.
• Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish!

2. Crumbled Feta and Pomegranate Seeds

For a savoury yet slightly sweet combination, this topping strikes the perfect balance of flavours. The creamy feta pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy pomegranate seeds, while the olive oil brings it all together.

How to make it:

• Crumble some feta cheese and spread it over a slice of rye bread.
• Sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds for a pop of colour and sweetness.
• Drizzle with olive oil, and season with a touch of black pepper.
• Optional: A sprinkle of dried oregano or mint will add an extra layer of flavour.

3. Hummus and Tomato

This simple yet satisfying combo brings together the smooth, creamy texture of hummus and the bright, juicy flavour of ripe tomatoes. It’s the perfect savoury snack or light meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

How to make it:

• Spread a thick layer of your favourite hummus on a slice of rye bread.
• Top with sliced ripe tomatoes, arranged neatly on top.
• Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or rocket for some extra greenery and flavour.

Fab Focaccia Sarnies

Focaccia is a beautifully textured bread – golden, crisp on the outside, and soft within, infused with rich olive oil for extra depth of flavour. Perfect on its own, delicious when paired with vegetables or cured meats, or filled with your favourite ingredients.

Here are two of our favourite focaccia recipes:

Vegetarian Roasted Vegetable & Mozzarella Focaccia

This roasted vegetable focaccia is bursting with Mediterranean flavours. The combination of aubergine, sweet red peppers, and courgette, paired with creamy mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil, makes for an irresistible bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 focaccia loaf, halved
• 1 aubergine, sliced
• 1 red pepper, sliced
• 1 courgette, sliced
• 200g fresh mozzarella, torn
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss the aubergine, red pepper, and courgette with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
3. Slice the focaccia in half and lightly toast it in the oven or on a grill pan for extra crispiness.
4. Layer half of the torn mozzarella onto the toasted focaccia base, then add the roasted vegetables, followed by more torn mozzarella.
5. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before placing the top half of the focaccia over the filling.
6. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Mortadella, Mozzarella & Pesto Focaccia

For those who love a meaty sandwich, this focaccia with delicate mortadella, creamy mozzarella, herby pesto, peppery rocket, and tangy sundried tomatoes is an absolute treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 focaccia loaf, halved
• 150g mortadella, thinly sliced
• 200g fresh mozzarella, torn
• 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• A handful of rocket leaves
• 4-5 sundried tomatoes, sliced

Instructions:

1. Slice the focaccia in half and lightly toast it for extra texture.
2. Spread a generous layer of pesto on the base of the focaccia.
3. Layer the mortadella, torn mozzarella, rocket leaves, and sliced sundried tomatoes on top.
4. Place the top half of the focaccia over the filling, pressing gently.
5. Slice and enjoy immediately.

Both of these sandwiches highlight the beauty of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you prefer the rich, roasted vegetables or the meatier mortadella combination, these focaccia sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit. Give them a try and let us know which one is your favourite on IG.

Sourdough’s Festive Makeover

The festive season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones, share delicious meals, and enjoy great food. Whether it’s Christmas dinner, a Boxing Day feast, Thanksgiving, or even a New Year’s Eve party sourdough bread brings something special to your celebrations. From pre-lunch nibbles to indulgent Christmas desserts, its tangy, satisfying texture brings a unique twist to your holiday dishes. And don’t worry if you’re not a baker—these recipes are all about using sourdough loaves, not starters. If you’re looking for recipes using sourdough starter, check out our blog for easy and delicious ideas: Easy Recipes Using a Sourdough Starter.

Ready to impress your guests? Let’s knead some extra flavour into your festive spread with these mouth-watering sourdough creations!

1. Sourdough Stuffing

• Tear your sourdough into chunks and lightly toast them for extra crispness.
• Sauté onions, celery, and garlic in butter, adding fresh herbs like sage and rosemary.
• Combine with the toasted sourdough and stock, and bake until golden on top.

2. Leftover Turkey Sandwiches

After the big meal, a turkey sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, and with sourdough, it becomes even more irresistible. The tang of the bread contrasts wonderfully with the rich turkey and seasonal trimmings.

• Spread cranberry sauce or mayonnaise on slices of sourdough.
• Layer with turkey, stuffing, and a generous spoonful of gravy. Grill for a warm, crispy finish, perfect for a hearty post-feast snack.

Good quality sourdough is essential for the perfect sandwich, so check out our sourdough made with organic, regenerative, stone-ground flour – the best quality on the market! Don’t be fooled by the numerous ‘sourfaux‘ loaves found in supermarkets.

3. Homemade Breadcrumbs

Don’t throw away your stale sourdough—turn it into crunchy breadcrumbs perfect for coating fish, topping casseroles, or adding texture to stuffing.

• Tear sourdough into small pieces and dry them out in the oven.
• Once crispy, blitz the bread into fine or coarse crumbs. Use in a vegetable bake or mix into meatballs for extra crunch.

4. Sourdough Crostini for Pre-Christmas Lunch Nibbles

Crostini is a simple way to serve light starters that your guests will love. The tangy sourdough provides a perfect base for festive toppings.

• Slice sourdough thinly, brush with olive oil, and toast in the oven until crisp.
• Top with ingredients like whipped goat’s cheese, smoked salmon, or pâté, finishing with a spoonful of cranberry chutney.

For more topping inspiration, why not browse our pantry? We also sell sourdough crackers which are perfect for pre-nibbles.

5. Sourdough Gravy Boats

For a fun twist, serve your gravy in edible sourdough bowls. These clever, bite-sized vessels make a delightful addition to your table.

• Hollow out small sourdough loaves, leaving a sturdy base.
• Fill with your favourite turkey or beef gravy and serve alongside your festive meal. Guests will love the interactive and delicious nature of this creative idea.

6. Sourdough Savoury Bread Pudding

Savoury bread pudding is a fantastic alternative to traditional sides, and sourdough brings a unique flavour to this comforting dish.

• Cube your sourdough and mix with sautéed onions, garlic, spinach, and cheese like Cheddar or Gruyère.
• Pour over a custard mixture of eggs and milk, then bake until golden. This dish pairs wonderfully with roast meats, adding a unique element to your holiday meal.

7. Sourdough Sweet Bread Pudding

Sourdough can even be used for a unique, indulgent dessert like bread pudding. The tang of the sourdough contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the custard.

• Cube your sourdough and soak in a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
• Add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Bake until golden, and serve with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream for a festive treat

Don’t miss our toffee apple bread and butter pudding recipe. We usually make it with our cinnamon and raisin bagels, but you can try it with a sourdough loaf.

8. Sourdough Pizza for Leftovers

If you’re looking for a different way to enjoy your holiday leftovers, sourdough pizza is a fantastic option. The tangy bread base complements leftover turkey and vegetables perfectly.

Follow our Sourdough pizza toast recipe but add leftover turkey and finish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, rather than basil.

9. Sourdough French Toast for Christmas Morning

Start your Christmas morning with a decadent breakfast of sourdough French toast. This twist on the classic recipe is perfect for a festive brunch.

• Dip slices of sourdough in eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
• Fry until golden and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of icing sugar.

Final Crumb

Sourdough bread is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, from savoury sides to indulgent desserts. Whether you’re preparing stuffing, sandwiches, or a unique bread pudding, sourdough adds a special touch that will enhance your Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any seasonal meal. This festive season, embrace the flavour and texture of sourdough – it’s the perfect ingredient for creating unforgettable meals.

Happy feasting! 🍞🎄

What’s Your Flavour? Elevate your summer outdoor meals with these drool-worthy bread toppings!

Hey there, bread enthusiasts! Today we’re diving into the wonderful world of summer-perfect bread toppings for those epic outdoor meals. Because let’s face it, a good bread selection is the backbone of any great feast, and summer is the perfect time to experiment with fresh and flavourful combinations. So, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that’ll make your taste buds tango!

Tangy Tomato Tango

When the sun’s shining bright, there’s nothing quite like a classic Caprese sandwich. Take a delicious baguette or ciabatta, slather on some pesto, layer slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Every bite is a harmonious dance of tangy, juicy goodness!

Avocado Avenger

If you’re an avocado aficionado like me, you’ll love this one. Mash up a ripe avocado with a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of chili flakes for a little kick. Slather this creamy green goodness on a crusty slice of Sourdough. It’s a superhero combo that’ll save your taste buds from any boring meal!

Pesto Presto

Basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese—need I say more? Pesto is like a culinary magician, transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of flavours. Spread a generous layer of pesto on a rustic baguette or a focaccia, and top it off with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. It’s like a Mediterranean vacation on a plate!

Sweet & Savoury Serenade

Who says summer is all about savoury? Embrace the sweet side of life with a delectable combination of grilled peaches, creamy goat cheese, and a drizzle of honey. Load it onto a warm cinnamon and raisin bagel or a nutty wholewheat loaf, and prepare for a taste sensation that’ll make you sing!

Zesty Fiesta

Let’s crank up the heat a notch, shall we? Take your taste buds on a flavour fiesta with a Mexican-inspired bread creation. Start with a hearty ciabatta roll or a crusty bolillo, slather on some spicy chipotle mayo, and pile on slices of grilled chicken, fresh avocado, pickled jalapeños, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. Olé!

Berry Blast

Berries are the jewels of summer, so why not crown your bread with their fruity goodness? Toast up a slice of whole grain bread, spread a generous layer of cream cheese, and top it off with a medley of juicy strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Dust it with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness. It’s like a picnic in a single bite!

So, my fellow bread enthusiasts, let your taste buds run wild this summer with these delicious bread toppings. The possibilities are endless, and these combinations are just the beginning. Remember, bread is the canvas, and you are the artist! Now go forth, explore, and create your own flavour masterpieces. And hey, if you come up with something amazing, feel free to share it with us—we’re always up for a culinary adventure!

Until next time, stay hungry, stay curious, and keep rocking that bread