Polenta: A versatile canvas for gourmet tastes

Polenta is not just a side dish; It can be the basis of countless elegant dishes.

It is inexpensive and easy to prepare, but has a luxurious appearance and taste.

How to upgrade: Once cooked, spread the polenta on a tray to cool, then slice it into squares or rounds. Grill or fry these pieces until crispy and top with sautéed mushrooms, a poached egg, and even a drizzle of truffle oil for a nice touch.

Shrimp: Simple tricks for a seafood sensation

Frozen shrimp are often overlooked, but they make the perfect base for a dish that looks and tastes like it belongs in a high-end restaurant.

How to upgrade: Prepare a shrimp and citrus salad by combining shrimp with grapefruit pieces, grated fennel and a light lemon vinaigrette. Plating it in a ring or fan shape with microgreens on top instantly lifts the dish. A pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving add a touch of sophistication. Or try this BBQ shrimp, pineapple and avocado salad.

Canned beans: Turn humble legumes into gourmet meals

Cannellini, butter beans, and chickpeas can be easily dressed up to create an impressive starter or main course.

How to upgrade: Create white bean puree by blending cannellini beans with garlic, lemon and olive oil. Serve this creamy puree as a base for roasted vegetables or spread on crostini with caramelized onions. Adding some smoked paprika can enhance the flavor, giving it a gourmet taste.

Canned fish: Budget-friendly seafood

Canned fish like sardines, tuna or salmon are a pantry staple that can be upgraded with a few simple touches.

How to upgrade: Turn canned tuna into a stylish niçoise-style salad or tuna tartare tossed with capers, lemon zest and finely chopped herbs. Serve in a small ring mold on a plate, sprinkled with avocado and a little olive oil. For sardines, try the sourdough bruschetta fried with sardines, lemon, red pepper flakes and fresh parsley to give it a Mediterranean twist.

Preserved fruit: Decorate the dessert with a penny

You can turn this dessert into an elegant dessert with a few easy techniques.

How to upgrade: Poach canned pears or peaches in a spicy syrup made with cinnamon, star anise and a little wine. Serve them with a dollop of mascarpone or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts. Coating them in individual portions with a little syrup will make the dish look polished and elegant.

reporter Contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she recently shared some helpful advice: how to make perfect risottosecret cooking beans And choosing the right pasta.