FRESH IN: Local courgettes are looking firm and crisp and blemish-free and have fallen pleasingly in price. "Grown mainly in Keri Keri, the local courgette season is certainly picking up so they're excellent buying at New World this week. Our growers hand-pick and deliver to our stores fresh every day" says New World Fresh Expert Brigit Corson.
Orzo, chickpea, grilled courgette and hemp seed salad
For a healthy treat, pick up a punnet of strawberries. This year they seem to have quickly bypassed the watery, early-season stage and are sweet and very flavoursome. In the next few weeks, and as we get more sun, it’s going to be an even better story.
The asparagus season is in full swing now and prices reflect that, “after a slow start due to cooler weather, asparagus is available now for a deliciously good price at 2 for $5 this week at New World. Enjoy these sweet tender spears whilst they’re great buying,” says Brigit. Broccoli is worth a special mention: it is very cheap, plentiful and great quality too.
LOOK FOR: fresh broad beans over the next few weeks at farmers' markets. Occasionally you may see them at the supermarket but they are a niche crop. Definitely worth seeking out from local growers. Look for small pods when buying. Very large and the sugar in the beans will have converted to starch.
Back in the supermarket, Australian mangoes join the honeydew melons in store. Supplies of red chillies are increasing and prices are lowering – however, it’s early days and chillies will not be bargain buying until after Christmas. “Local hot house chillies in-store now are grown in Whakatane and West Auckland, with outdoor crops popping up just after the festive season for a boost to availability,” say Brigit.
MOVING ON: "A favourite on the British Christmas table, for New Zealand the Brussels sprout season is done and dusted so they won't be making an appearance until next season," says Brigit.