Fresh this week: New Zealand limes are here, albeit at a cost, which is a little less than the imports we have been relying on over summer. "They're plentiful at the moment and this should continue for the next 6 months," says New World Fresh Expert Brigit Corson. Pumpkin, buttercup and butternut are in good supply. These squash family members are rich in beta-carotene and good sources of carbohydrate. Sweetcorn, courgettes, spring onions and locally grown apples and pears are good buying at New world this week.
Look for: "Keep your whole pumpkins, buttercups and butternuts in a cool, dark place," says Brigit, stored correctly they will keep for around 3 months."
Try it in: Cubes of roasted pumpkin, buttercup or butternut bring warmth and colour to salads, frittata, pasta and risotto. Stuff them with a cooked grain, lentil or bean mix and bake until tender for a hearty vegetarian meal or blend them into a smooth, silky bowl of soup – the first of the season!
Moving on: Summerfruit (apricots, peaches, plums, blueberries and raspberries) is still with us, mainly from New World's South Island growers. Strawberries are becoming very limited as their season ends.