Put on a seafood spread without it costing the earth, with Ginny Grant’s economical dishes to feed a crowd.

Fish seldom figures in our go-to dishes for entertaining – with the exception of salmon, that perennial crowd pleaser. I often wonder if it is because fish is expensive, or more to do with a reluctance to use it for fear of not cooking it well. But using the less-utilised species or tinned fish, and stretching it out cleverly, make for economical yet delicious eating that is good not only for a family but for a crowd. The two whole kahawai I used for the photo shoot cost less than $12, and I just think that is a bargain. Still unconvinced? Try using the vegetarian or vegan suggestions instead.