Seasonal eating can bring variety, value and anticipation to the kitchen. Use this guide as inspiration, while welcoming frozen and tinned options whenever they are more practical.
01
Spring
Tender greens and bright flavours
Spring welcomes asparagus, spinach, radishes, spring greens and the first rhubarb. Keep preparations light enough to notice their texture.
Pair green vegetables with lemon, herbs, eggs, beans and new potatoes for simple meals.
Asparagus and pea frittata
Spring green and white bean soup
Rhubarb and oat breakfast pots
02
Summer
Abundance with little cooking
Tomatoes, courgettes, berries, cucumbers, beans and stone fruit need little work. Build meals around salads, grilled vegetables, quick grains and chilled fruit.
Make dressings and grain bases ahead, then assemble close to eating for the best texture.
Tomato, bean and herb salad
Courgette ribbons with lemon and seeds
Berry and yoghurt oat cups
03
Autumn
Roasting trays and orchard fruit
Squash, mushrooms, apples, pears, cabbage and beetroot suit deeper flavours and warming textures. One roasting tray can supply several meals.
Use apples and pears in savoury dishes as well as breakfast and desserts.
Squash, lentil and sage bowl
Mushroom and barley soup
Apple, cabbage and walnut slaw
04
Winter
Roots, brassicas and citrus
Carrots, parsnips, leeks, potatoes, cabbage and stored squash make generous soups, trays and pies. Citrus adds freshness to rich winter textures.
Frozen peas, spinach and berries offer useful colour when fresh variety is narrower.