Fresh in-season produce tips from the fresh experts at New World.
GROWING STRONG: The recent warm weather has been a boon for peaches, which have come into their own. And it’s been good for the later varieties of apricots as well. Apricots, generally, have been large and full-flavoured this summer. The pale pink, white-fleshed coconut ice peaches will be arriving in supermarkets about now, and soon there will be peacharines, the sweetand juicy cross between a peach and nectarine. Meanwhile, nectarines from Hawke’s Bay and Central Otago are great eating. “Hand-picked blush nectarines continue to be a delicious buy this summer,” says New World Fresh Expert Brigit Corson. “Nectarines are best stored at room temperature. Give their smooth bright skin a quick rinse just before eating.”
Toasted muesli roasted peaches
Yummy SweeTango and Royal Gala apples are here now too. Early season pears are available, and the season will ramp up in the coming weeks. Salad greens and summer veges such as courgettes, capsicums, sweetcorn, avocados and eggplants are plentiful. Cauliflower and broccoli prices have eased, and supplies have improved. There are good quantities of local rockmelons and honeydews, and watermelons continue to be a bargain buy. Imported Californian mandarins, navel oranges and lemons are juicy and plentiful. “Enjoy the last of the berry season with good supplies of plump blueberries and raspberries in-store now,” says Brigit.
LOOK FOR: Passionfruit continues to trickle slowly in and keep your eyes peeled for new season Aussie grapes.
MOVING ON: Cherry season is nearly over, so grab them before they go.