This is so simple, but once you make this easy switch, you'll never look back. Turn your jar of peanut butter upside down. That's it. Natural peanut butter – and other nut butters – don't have any added stabilisers, so the oils will usually separate and move to the top of the jar. Save yourself the time and faff (and mess) of trying to stir it together, and just store it upside down. The oils will head to the bottom of the jar, making it much easier to use when the time comes. Happy nut butter spreading and spooning.
If you do end up with black or brown bananas, fear not. Overripe bananas are best for use in baking as they're sweeter and easier to mash into batter. Banana bread is a favourite for using the fruit – this version also incorporates cocoa nibs and a shot of coffee.
For those who would prefer to skip the arm workout that comes with mashing potatoes, using an electric hand mixer is an easy solution. As well as taking away all the effort, a hand mixer ensures lump-free mash every time.
Revive leftover, dried-out pizza by microwaving it with a mug of water. As the water evaporates, moisture fills the microwave, rehydrating the dry crust and giving you a gooey, cheesy pizza slice once more.
If you’re having a hard time with cold butter, use a grater to soften the perfect amount to put on toast or bread. It'll make the butter easier to spread, without destroying your loaf in the process. This method is even used by chefs to make perfect buttery pastry.
You might already use the juices from roasted meat in your gravy, but don't forget about veggies. Add the nutrient-rich water from boiled veg and any run-off from a roasting tin as well. It'll make for a flavourful gravy packed with vitamins.
If you're planning on eating raw kale in a salad, massage the greens beforehand. It may sound odd but it'll tenderise the hardy leaves. First, remove the stem and add a glug of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt to the leaves. Then gently knead the kale with your hands until the leaves start to wilt a little. Be careful not to overwork the greens though as they'll become mushy.
Sprinkle a few tablespoons of water over bread that's a few days old, then stick it in a hot oven for a few minutes. It'll bring your stale loaf back to life. This trick works best on whole, unsliced loaves like baguettes, sourdough or ciabatta.
Want to know the secret for making cut herbs last? Keep them upright in about 5cm (2 inches) of water as you would a bunch of flowers. Shelter them from direct sunlight and change the water regularly. They'll stay fresher for longer.
This tip is essential for iced coffee lovers who don't want their caffeine hit watered down. Brew fresh coffee (as strong as you like it) and pour it into an ice cube tray. Add the frozen coffee cubes to cold brew or iced coffee, or blend them with milk to make an iced latte.
Get more juice from a lemon by microwaving it on high for around 20 seconds. It'll be warmer and softer than straight from the fridge, making the citrus fruit easier to squeeze. It's a must-try hack if you're making lemonade too.