Embrace the Delights of Spring: Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables
Aug 24, 2023
As the chill of winter gives way to the gentle warmth of spring, Melbourne comes alive with an abundance of seasonal, locally-sourced fruits and vegetables. This is the time when nature generously offers its delicious bounty, providing us with an array of flavours and textures to relish. From the vibrant markets to the delightful dishes you can create, let's dive into the treasures of spring produce Down Under.
The Spring Feast: What to Enjoy
Spring is a time of renewal, and what better way to embrace it than by indulging in the freshest, most flavourful produce available? As the season transitions, the Australian landscape becomes a canvas painted with hues of green, orange, and purple, signalling the arrival of delectable offerings.
Among the stars of spring are strawberries, bursting with sweetness and vivid colour. Their arrival marks the start of warmer days, and they can be savoured on their own or added to a variety of dishes. Pair them with the zing of rhubarb for a sweet and tart dessert, or enjoy them atop a bowl of creamy custard.
Avocado aficionados rejoice, for spring brings forth a rich harvest of these creamy delights. Slice them onto toast, toss them in salads, or blend them into a luscious guacamole – the options are endless. The avocados of spring are a must-try for their buttery texture and vibrant flavour.
Among the stars of spring are strawberries, bursting with sweetness and vivid colour. Their arrival marks the start of warmer days, and they can be savoured on their own or added to a variety of dishes. Pair them with the zing of rhubarb for a sweet and tart dessert, or enjoy them atop a bowl of creamy custard.
Avocado aficionados rejoice, for spring brings forth a rich harvest of these creamy delights. Slice them onto toast, toss them in salads, or blend them into a luscious guacamole – the options are endless. The avocados of spring are a must-try for their buttery texture and vibrant flavour.
Places to Visit for Seasonal Produce:
When it comes to sourcing the freshest seasonal produce, Australia's bustling markets are a haven for food enthusiasts. Spring is an opportune time to explore these markets and discover a cornucopia of locally-sourced delights.
Preston Market: Located in Melbourne, Preston Market is a vibrant hub of activity where you can immerse yourself in a sea of colourful fruits and vegetables - this is our market of choice since we live in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. Stroll through the aisles, inhaling the intoxicating aromas of spring, and gather a variety of ingredients to fuel your culinary endeavours. Our favourite place to visit for seasonal produce is MnM Fruit - Dom will always suggest the ultimate produce to try and they always have a beautiful array to choose from. Some other places we visit for ingredients other than fruit and veg are: Blue Pacific Seafood where Elaine will always suggest the freshest catch for us to dine on. Moving on from there, we go to Oscar's Poultry where we pick up any chicken required for the week (and chicken feet for our sausage dog, Timmy). We visit Joe's Quality Corner for delicious cuts of beef (our favourite is the picanha or T-bone to cook over coals) or other meats. And ARC Asian Grocer for any asian ingredients that we might want to cook with during the week! It's a real haven of specialty ingredients and different cuts and items that you can't always find in your local supermarket.
Footscray Market: Another Melbourne gem, Footscray Market, is a cultural melting pot that reflects the diversity of Australian cuisine. Here, you'll find an array of spring produce, from crisp asian greens to succulent fruits. Engage with local vendors, and let their passion for fresh ingredients inspire your next culinary creation.
Dandenong Market: Nestled on the outskirts of Melbourne, Dandenong Market is a treasure trove of seasonal delights. With its rich history and commitment to quality, this market is a prime destination to explore the wonders of spring. Revel in the scents and flavours as you select the finest ingredients to grace your kitchen.
As spring unfurls, our seasonal fruits and vegetables offer a delightful symphony of flavours and textures. From creating mouthwatering dishes to exploring local markets, this season invites us to embrace the abundance of nature's bounty. So, don your apron, sharpen your knives, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the delicious, the fresh, and the locally-sourced.
Here are some seasonal spring vegetables you can look for throughout the next few months:
Peas: Both snap peas and garden peas thrive during the spring months. They're sweet and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries.
Broccoli: While available year-round, broccoli tends to be at its best and most tender during the cooler months of spring.
Artichokes: Artichokes are often associated with spring. They have a unique flavour and can be prepared in various ways, such as steaming or roasting.
Spinach: Spinach loves the milder temperatures of spring. It's versatile and can be used in salads, smoothies, omelets, and more.
Zucchini: Zucchini starts making its appearance in spring and continues through the summer. It's great for grilling, sautéing, or baking into breads and muffins.
Radishes: Radishes come in a range of colors and varieties. They add a refreshing crunch to salads and can also be pickled for added flavour.
Lettuce: Various types of lettuce, such as butterhead, romaine, and leaf lettuce, are at their prime in spring. They're perfect for salads and sandwiches.
Spring Onions: Also known as green onions or scallions, these are mild in flavour and can be used in a variety of dishes as a garnish or ingredient.
Carrots: While carrots are available year-round, the young, tender carrots are often harvested in spring, offering a sweeter taste.
Cauliflower: Similar to broccoli, cauliflower is best during cooler months, including spring. It can be used in a variety of dishes and even as a low-carb rice substitute.
Cabbage: Cabbage varieties like Napa cabbage and savoy cabbage are in season during spring. They're great for making slaws, stir-fries, and more.
Remember that the exact timing of the availability of these vegetables might vary slightly depending on the specific region within Australia and local climate conditions. Visiting farmers' markets or local markets is a great way to find the freshest seasonal produce.
Keep your eyes peeled on our Instagram for our seasonal specials featuring some of these ingredients in the upcoming months!
