Our top 10 last minute dishes to serve at your Melbourne Cup lunch

These recipes are no fuss, quick and easy to prepare but seriously impressive. Whether you've invited hoards of guests and have run out of time and ideas, or are stuck for an up-to-the-minute cocktail idea, here's help:

1. Bruschetta with edible flowers

This couldn't be easier - simple and fresh. Pick up edible flowers at your gourmet grocer.

Get the recipe here.

2. Pete Evans' Watermelon & feta salad

This fresh salad looks so pretty in a bowl - simply chop and toss. If you have the time and inclination, place single serves on individual spoons.

Get the recipe here.

3. Tuna & watermelon ceviche tartlets

A very little planning here that goes a long way in the style stakes, and this can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

Get the recipe here.

4. Dressed oysters with radish & cucumber salad

Oysters are an elegant icebreaker when entertaining and your fishmonger will have done most of the work for you. Simply dress and top with salad and micro herbs. 

Get the recipe here.

5. Tuna, ginger & herb cakes with yoghurt sauce

Fresh and tasty, these make scrumptious finger food.

Get the recipe here.

6. Rainbow Nicoise

A little more substantial, this salad would stand alone for lunch or make a lovely side dish.

Get the recipe here.

8. Quinoa warm brunch salad

This wholesome dish presents beautifully laid out on a platter.

Get the recipe here.

9. Gooey chocolate meringues

The ultimate sweet treat, meringues are simple to make, either ahead of time or last minute for a chewy texture.

Get the recipe here.

10. Byron Mess

An easy and eye-catching dessert to feed a band of merry punters - why not lay out the ingredients in a collection of bowls and invite guests to build their own dessert!

Get the recipe here.

Wondering what to do with the watermelon juice? This quick cocktail will get the party started...

Get the recipe here.

For more ideas click here.