Fresh food club - What's in season?

Late winter is prime time for citrus, especially the striking ruby-fleshed blood oranges. Choose firm fruits with deep orange-red skin — their raspberry-hued juice is perfect as a thirst quencher or in desserts like poached pears in citrus-honey syrup. Tip: Segment blood oranges over a bowl to catch the juice—use it in salad dressings, marinades, or drizzle over pan-fried chicken for a burst of flavour.

Nothing warms the kitchen like the scent of cooking apples. Winter’s chill makes apples at their crispiest, perfect for baking classics like apple crumble, salted caramel apple tart, or homemade applesauce (great with pork dishes). Storage tip: Keep apples in the fridge’s crisper to maintain crunch and slow ripening. Granny Smith apples are a superb cooking apple

Sweet, aromatic, and a good source of dietary fibre, strawberries remain a favourite. Preparation idea: Try roasting strawberries with a drizzle of honey and serve warm with yoghurt or ice cream for a quick winter dessert.

A juicy cross between grapefruit and mandarin, tangelos offer a sweet-tangy flavour and easy-to-peel skin. Rich in vitamin C and fibre, they make a healthy snack or a bright addition to salads and desserts. Tip: Choose heavier fruit for juicier results.

Late winter sees the start of rhubarb season. Stew ruby-red rhubarb with strawberries sprinkled with sugar, then top with crumble mix and bake for a warming classic dessert.

Hass avocados, grown in Southern Queensland and Northern NSW, are currently abundant and offer fantastic value. Known for their creamy texture and rich, nutty flavour, Hass avocados are a versatile pantry staple perfect for everything from classic guacamole to creamy smoothies, toast toppers or top a hot jacket potato. Nutrition boost: Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, fibre, and potassium, avocados support heart health, digestion, and sustained energy—making them a great choice for winter wellness.

Juicy lemons are available at a great price. Brighten tomato-based casseroles by drizzling fresh lemon juice over them just before serving to lift the flavours. For a vibrant twist, mix finely grated lemon zest with chopped flat-leaf parsley and crushed garlic to make a zesty—perfect for sprinkling over crumbed lamb cutlets or hearty osso bucco.

With its delicate aniseed flavour, fennel is perfect for quick, tasty dishes. Try shaving fennel thinly and tossing it with mandarin or blood orange segments for a refreshing, citrusy salad. Or roast thick slices or wedges until caramelised and serve warm alongside lamb, chicken, or fish for a comforting winter meal.

Leeks bring a subtle, mild onion flavour that’s perfect for adding depth to soups, stews, and casseroles without overpowering other ingredients. Their tender white and pale green parts soften beautifully when cooked, creating a silky texture and rich aroma. Try classic fennel, leek & chickpea soup, or incorporate leeks into creamy risottos, quiches, or hearty vegetable bakes. When buying, look for firm, fresh stalks with vibrant green tops.

Asian Greens like pak choy, bok choy and gai lum are vibrant, crisp greens are perfect for quick stir-fries, steaming, or adding to soups. Both stems and leaves cook fast and offer a mild, sweet flavour packed with vitamins A and C. They’re a healthy, affordable winter staple.

A winter casserole essential. Use diced celery sautéed with onion, garlic, and carrot as the flavour base for soups and stews. Celery is a thrifty buy.

A natural source of vitamin D, button, cup, and flat mushrooms. Recipe idea: Mushroom meatballs in cherry tomato sauce this dish is hearty and family-friendly.

Kale is nutrient-packed and affordable. Sauté with garlic for a quick winter side dish.

Broccoli and broccolini – are rich in antioxidants, fibre, and potassium. Steam or enjoy raw in salads.

English spinach is tender and affordable. Quickly wilt with garlic for a nutritious side or sneak into baked goods like spinach & zucchini chocolate cake.

Sweet and flavourful, red capsicums are a good buy this week. Use in salads, pizza toppings, casseroles, or stuffed and baked for a hearty meal.

Premium quality parsnips are in season. Their natural sweetness shines when roasted, and they add depth to soups and casseroles. For a creamy side, try cooking parsnips in milk, then pureeing with a touch of cream—perfect alongside steak, chicken, or fish. For a hearty meal, don’t miss this slow-cooker Moroccan parsnip and lamb casserole packed with rich, warming flavours.