In MasterChef, you learn to think on your feet - especially when you're required to create a presentable and tasty dish without a recipe from specific ingredients in a limited amount of time. This is where I really surprised myself and actually thrived on the challenge.

From there I spent the last six years opening restaurants in India. This also tested my ability to adapt to a new style of cooking. Trained in classic French cuisine, I was suddenly thrown into the land of spices and flavour.

These are my top tips to make your dish incredible - and trust me, you can do it all in as little as 20 minutes.

Side note: You should never reheat these five foods in the microwave. Post continues below.

1. Start with a well-stocked spice cupboard.

Spices elevate the most humble ingredients. When roasting, add cumin to your carrots and chat masala to your roast potatoes to enhance the flavour.

2. Get high quality oil.

Ensure it’s all natural and fresh. You'll be surprised at how much a low quality or artificial oil can alter your dish.

3. Don’t underestimate citrus.

Often a squeeze of lemon or lime can take your dish to the next level.

It can feel strange at times squeezing lemon or lime on your curry but trust me, add it to everything; it's the best-kept secret!

4. Buy local, fresh and in season produce.

Ingredients grown in the same region and at the same time of year taste the best together!

5. Have pickles ready to go in the fridge.

Homemade or store bought, they last forever and enhance every dish.

There is a lemon pickle in my book,My Indian Kitchenthat I am currently using in everything.

Serve with flatbread for a cheat’s dinner, finely chop for a salsa verde to accompany steak or simply add to salad dressing - or even on an antipasti plate.

6. Stock up on canned legumes.

Last night I made the most incredible chickpea curry using only pantry staples in 20 minutes. A tasty and nutritious saviour for any last-minute guests!

7. Create a herb garden.

I'm not much of a green thumb but things like mint and rosemary grow like weeds and are such a great flavour enhancer to add to your dishes. Cheap and convenient.