Embrace the Bounty of Winter Produce
As the cooler weather arrives here in the Toowoomba Region, we sometimes lose momentum in the kitchen when the fresh produce we have been cooking with is either no longer available or increases in price due to being out of season.
Winter has an amazing array of fruits and vegetables on offer from hearty root vegetables to vibrant citrus fruits, winter fresh produce brings a burst of flavour, colour, and nutrients to your table. Let's explore some of the winter fruits and vegetables on offer and how you can incorporate them into your seasonal cooking.
Root Vegetables: Root vegetables are the unsung heroes of winter produce. These hearty, earthy gems are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Think carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, and swedes. Roasted to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs, they make a comforting side dish for any winter meal. One of our favourite roast vegetable recipe is Caramelised Roasted Parsnips and Carrots. You can also puree root vegetables into creamy soups or add them to stews and casseroles for extra depth of flavour. For your convenience we put together “Soup Packs” so you can grab them off the shelf knowing you have everything you need to make a hearty soup or stew. Use our Soup Pack in this super versatile Vegetable Soup.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are at their peak during the winter months. These veggies are not only rich in vitamins and minerals but also offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness when cooked properly. Try roasting Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze or sautéing broccoli with garlic and chilli flakes for a simple yet satisfying side dish. Or try Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Garlic & Onions. You can also incorporate cauliflower into creamy gratins or use cabbage leaves as wraps for a healthier twist on tacos or sandwiches. And, as an added bonus our cabbage is locally sourced from growers in the Lockyer Valley.
Citrus Fruits: Winter is well known for citrus fruits. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes add a burst of sunshine to the dreariest of days. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, citrus fruits not only boost your immune system but also add zing to both sweet and savory dishes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over roasted vegetables or use it to brighten up salads and marinades. Create refreshing citrus salads with segments of oranges and grapefruits paired with creamy avocado and peppery rocket for a vibrant burst of flavour. Roasted Beetroot & Mandarin Salad adds a splash of colour to the winter spread and is packed with flavour.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin varieties like Butternut and Jap/Kent are a staple of cold-weather cooking. Their sweet, nutty flavour and creamy texture make them incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Roast Jap/Kent pumpkin and blend it into velvety soups or purees. Stuff Butternuts with a savory mixture of grains, nuts, and dried fruits for a hearty vegetarian main course. Try this Whole Baked Pumpkin for a hearty addition to the Sunday roast.
Leafy Greens: While some leafy greens thrive in the summer sun, others shine in the cool temperatures of winter. Kale, Silverbeet, and spinach are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to your winter diet. Sauté kale with garlic and red pepper flakes for a quick and nutritious side dish, or add spinach to soups, stews, and stir-fries for an extra dose of green goodness. This Green Kale Lentil Curry is super easy and can be on the table in 40 minutes!
Herbs and Aromatics: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage add warmth and depth to winter dishes. Whether sprinkled over roasted vegetables, stirred into soups and stews, or used to flavour hearty meats and poultry, herbs are a simple yet effective way to elevate your winter cooking. Similarly, aromatics like garlic, onions, and shallots lend their distinct flavours to a wide range of dishes, from comforting casseroles to aromatic sauces. If you have excess herbs that you don’t want to go to waste, you can make Homemade Herb Butter, keep it in the freezer and pull it out whenever you need it. It’s perfect on roast veggies too!!
Other produce in season during the winter months are kiwifruit, bananas, Queensland grown strawberries, fennel, capsicums, squash, zucchini, and avocados.
Winter fresh produce offers a treasure trove of flavours, textures, and nutrients to explore and enjoy. By embracing the seasonal bounty of root vegetables, cruciferous veggies, citrus fruits, pumpkin, leafy greens, herbs, and aromatics, you can create delicious and nourishing meals that will warm your body and soul during the coldest months of the year.
See our friendly staff in store at Westridge Fruit & Vegetables for more information about seasonal produce and best ways to prepare it. We also have a range of spices, sauces and meal bases in store to ensure your meals are always vibrant and tasty. You can also view and order our range online.
