There’s a lot to look forward to during summer in Australia – The festive season, night swims, barbeques, fresh seafood, 2-for-1 mangos, and now we’re drooling. As the weather reaches maximum heat, produce thrives (and so do the supermarket specials).

We love Sustainable Table and the Seasonal Food Guide when it comes to seasonal eating, but keep in mind that things will differ according to region.

Assemble your fruit platters and salads because summer is here, and so is our seasonal produce guide!

Fruit

Summer is the hottest season in Australia and the soaring temperatures make ideal growing conditions for fruit – berries, melons, and stone fruits are available in abundance, and the beloved mango returns in blazing glory.

High temperatures mean fast-growing fruit, which is why you’ll see bulk deals hitting the supermarket shelves. If you buy a box or fruit by the kilo, it’s a great opportunity to blend smoothies, make preserves, fruit salads, and stick some in the freezer for later.

Eat-spiration:

• Cherries dipped in chocolate
• French toast with berries
• Grilled nectarines
• Mango and coconut milk smoothie bowl
• Peach and rocket salad
• Strawberry and grilled chicken salad
• Summer fruit pavlova
• Watermelon, strawberry, and mint sorbet

Vegetables

Many summer veggies are planted in spring when the soil temperatures have increased, so by the time summer rolls around they’re ready to harvest. We love summer vegetable recipes because it doesn’t take a lot of time (or effort) to create something delicious! Fresh salads, grilled veg, tasty dips and crudités…

Eat-spiration:

• Asparagus and prosciutto salad
• Barbecued corn
• Beetroot and radish dip
• Celery and tuna sandwiches
• Grilled zucchini and corn salad
• Stuffed zucchini flowers
• Summer vegetable terrine
• Tzaziki dip
• Zucchini fritters

Herbs and spices

The sweltering summer heat means herbs and spices grow fast but are at risk of drying out if not properly cared for. Basil, chilli, mint, and thyme thrive in these conditions but make sure to keep your plants well-watered, their soil well-drained, and give them breaks from direct sunlight.

As the hot summer winds blow out the door, why not pay a visit to our autumn produce guide? Oh and for an overview of the seasons, check out our seasonal eating guide – we’ve got your bases covered from the warmer to cooler months.