August 21 In Season at the Market

Buying and eating in season produce is good for your nutrition and helps the economy, our seasonal updates are here to lend a hand.

Let us inspire you with just a few of the fresh, locally grown produce now in season at the South Australia Produce Market that you will find at your local fruit and veg store. 

 

Cauliflower

There is more to Cauliflower than turning it into a pizza base substitute. Although this is a great way to consume this nutrient packed veg, it can actually be eaten raw as well. Cauliflower is available for most of the year, specifically in the cooler months. There is nothing better than warming the soul with a hearty Cauliflower soup.  Be sure to add this versatile, healthy veg to your shopping basket at your local fruit and veg store to incorporate into your weekly meals.

 

Bananas

There are plenty of Bananas around, but you may notice that they appear a bit dull during winter which is due to the cooler weather.  Don’t let that fool you – they still taste great!  While bananas are not grown locally in South Australia, they are ripened here and help boost the local economy.  Bananas are a popular addition to household fruit bowls as they are so versatile for all meals of the day.  Packed full of potassium and other essential nutrients, bananas are helpful for heart health, digestive health and help manage blood pressure.  Did you know that bananas naturally have serotonin!? A chemical that contributes to the happiness emotion making it the perfect choice if you’re feeling a bit down in this cold and wet weather.

Potatoes

19 August was World Potato Day.  The humble potato comes in so many varieties including white, red, purple, sweet potato, Kestrel, Sebago, Desiree, Kipfler and the list goes on!  Potatoes can be enjoyed either mashed, roasted, boiled, fried or baked.  As they are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, which can be enjoyed in so many ways, so be sure to have a supply stored in a cool, dark place for extended shelf life.

 

Beurre Bosc Pears

The Beurre Bosc Pear has a rich, sweet, slightly grainy flesh which is especially good for desserts and poaching.  However, you can also mash a poached Beurre Bosc with cauliflower for a delicious healthy alternative to mashed potato.  This variety of pear is also perfect to include and compliment cheese platters.  These pears are usually picked before they’re ripe, kept in cold storage, and then left to ripen at room temperature for a few days. Tip for ripening – if you place your pears in a paper bag or an enclosed area with a ripe banana or apple, they will give off a gas called ethylene that triggers the ripening process in unripe pears. You gotta love science!

 

You’ll find the best produce inside your local independent fruit & veg stores. Locate your closest store here.And don’t forget to check out Pick a Local, Pick SA Facebook page for the latest news from your local fresh produce experts.