Seasonal Ingredients For Spring in Australia

Spring is a time for fresh starts, and what better way to refresh your menu than with seasonal ingredients? Here in Australia, we're lucky to have an abundance of fresh produce available to us, so there's no excuse not to take advantage of it!

So, what tasty treats can you expect to find this spring season? We're giving you the rundown on some of Australia's best seasonal produce. Plus, some chef-approved dishes you can whip up to show it off!

So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm because spring has sprung, and it's time to get seasonal.

Spring Vegetables to Add to Your Menu

Artichoke

This spiky, globe-shaped veggie may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of spring produce. But trust us, artichokes are in season, and they're delicious!

If you're not sure how to prepare them, don't worry. Artichokes are actually pretty easy to cook. Just steam or boil them until they're tender, then enjoy them with your favourite dipping sauce. We recommend a simple lemon and olive oil dip - it's the perfect way to show off the artichoke's natural flavour.

Want to get creative? Try using artichokes in a pasta dish, pizza, or salad. The possibilities are endless!

Fennel

This aromatic herb is closely related to anise and has a mild, licorice-like flavour. Fennel is usually enjoyed cooked, but it can also be eaten raw in salads or used as a garnish.

When shopping for fennel, look for bulbs that are heavy for their size and have crisp, white flesh. Avoid any bulbs that are brown or blemished - they'll be past their prime.

Not sure how to use fennel? Why not try roasting it with other spring vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Or, for a lighter option, try shaved fennel in a salad or as a garnish for soup or fish dishes.

Asian Greens

Asian greens are a versatile ingredient that can be used in all sorts of dishes. From stir-fries to soups, they're perfect for adding a touch of flavour and crunch.

Some of the most popular Asian greens include bok choy, Chinese cabbage and gai lan. But there are plenty of other varieties to choose from, so don't be afraid to experiment!

When shopping for Asian greens, look for leaves that are bright green and free from blemishes. Avoid any greens that are wilted or discoloured - they won't be as fresh.

A great way to add this tasty veggie option to your menu is in a stir-fry. Asian greens are also delicious in soup, curry, or even just steamed and served with a simple dipping sauce.

Broccoli

This nutrient-packed vegetable is a member of the cabbage family and is related to Brussels sprouts and kale. Broccoli has a slightly sweet, earthy flavour and can be enjoyed cooked or raw.

One of the most popular ways to enjoy broccoli is simply boiled or steamed. But if you're looking for something a little more creative, why not try roasting it with other vegetables like carrots and potatoes? Or, for a lighter option, try shaved broccoli in a salad or as a garnish for soup or fish dishes.

Spring Fruits to add to your menu

Apples

Apples are a popular fruit that can be enjoyed in all sorts of dishes. From pies and tarts to crumbles and sauces, they're perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and flavour.

When shopping for apples, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. Avoid any that are soft or have brown spots - they'll be overripe.

Some popular varieties of apples include Granny Smith, Cripps Pink and Fuji. But there are plenty of other varieties to choose from, so don't be afraid to experiment!

An apple and cinnamon crumble is a popular dessert option in the spring. Serve with delicious vanilla ice cream on a warmer day or custard on a cooler day.

Avocados

Ever heard the saying, 'you can't make everyone happy. You're not an avocado? '. Well, it's true - avocados are pretty popular these days. But there's a good reason for it... they're delicious!

Avocados are rich and creamy, with a mild, nutty flavour. They're perfect in salads, on toast, or simply eaten on their own as a snack.

When buying avocados for your hospitality venue, look for firm ones that yield to gentle pressure. Avoid any that are soft or have brown spots - they'll be overripe.

Some popular ways to enjoy avocados include in a salad, on toast with a delicious poached egg, or in a tasty fajita. However you choose to serve them, we guarantee they'll be a hit!

Cherries

Cherries are a delicious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or baked. They have a sweet, slightly tart flavour and are perfect in pies, tarts, crumbles, and jams.

When shopping for cherries, look for ones that are plump and free from blemishes. Avoid any that are soft - they'll be overripe.

Some of the most popular cherry varieties in Australia include Sweetheart, Rival and Stella.

A cherry pie is a classic dessert option that is perfect for the spring season. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a delicious treat.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a tart, crisp vegetable that can be enjoyed cooked or raw. It's perfect in pies, tarts, crumbles, and jams and can also be used to make chutneys and sauces.

When buying rhubarb, look for firm stalks. Avoid any that are limp or have brown spots.

Rhubarb is often used in desserts, but it's also delicious in savoury dishes. Why not try adding it to a roast pork dish for a touch of sweetness and flavour? You can do this by adding a few chopped stalks to your pork roast along with some onions, garlic, and thyme.

Lychees

Lychees are a sweet, fragrant fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or in all sorts of dishes. From salads and smoothies to desserts and cocktails, they're perfect for adding sweetness and flavour.

You want to buy lychees that are plump and have a deep red colour. Avoid any that are brown or have wrinkled skin.

One of the most popular ways to enjoy lychees is in a salad with other spring fruits. But they're also delicious in smoothies, desserts, and cocktails. So get creative and experiment! Some fruits that usually go well with lychees include mango, pineapple, and strawberries.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it. Seasonal fruits and vegetables to help you create delicious spring dishes your customers will love.

Remember to have fun with it and experiment with different flavours and combinations. That's part of the joy of cooking! And if you're ever stuck for ideas, there are plenty of recipes online or in cookbooks that you can try.