Juicy new-season peaches and nectarines freshly harvested from orchards in NSW, South Australia and Victoria are available at your local greengrocer. Choose from white or yellow flesh varieties, perfect for snacking, baking, grilling or slicing into salads.
Plump, colourful berries—including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries—are eating beautifully. For best flavour, allow berries to come to room temperature before serving and wash just prior to eating.
Sweet, juicy mangoes continue to delight shoppers as the Queensland fruit come to market. Look for fruit that feels heavy for its size and has a fragrant aroma near the stem
Good supplies of bananas make them a wallet-friendly choice and a great snack for both kids and adults. Ripe bananas can be stored in the fridge to extend shelf life—skins may darken, but the flesh remains firm and fresh.
Grape tomatoes are a thrifty buy. Roast grape tomatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt and pepper at 180C for 20–25 minutes until caramelised. Serve with grilled meats, toss into salads or spoon over bruschetta.
The first plums of the season have arrived. Black Diamond plums are red-fleshed and extra flavoursome. Look for slightly soft fruit for maximum sweetness
New season Australian grapes have just kicked off their season and are great for snacking or entertaining. Store unwashed in the refrigerator to maintain crunch.
Versatile and nutritious eggplant is excellent value. Grill, roast, stir-fry or bake—it absorbs flavours beautifully and works well in pastas, curries, dips like baba ganoush or whip up a tasty eggplant, tomato and pinenut salad
Although asparagus is past its seasonal peak, quality remains consistent. Look for firm spears and tightly closed tips. Enjoy steamed, charred or tossed through risotto.
Quick-cooking, nutrient-rich Asian leafy greens like bok choy, choy sum and gai lan are great value at $1.50–$2.50 a bunch. Stir-fry with garlic and oyster sauce or add to noodle bowls.
Tender, mild-flavoured leeks are a top pick right now. Use them in quiches, soups, risottos or as a base for savoury tarts. Store wrapped in a paper towel in the crisper for maximum freshness
