Tropical-tasting passionfruit is a delicious accompaniment to most summer fruits. Small-sized passionfruit are plentiful, and greengrocers are selling them in net bags

Juicy limes are plentiful and very affordable right now. Warm the fruit in the microwave for 30 seconds or roll it firmly on the kitchen bench, then juice it to obtain the maximum amount of juice from a lime.

Richly coloured plums with yellow and red flesh are in season, with supplies peaking in February. The antioxidant-rich variety Queen Garnet has started and although it's more expensive it's extremely high in antioxidants. Leave firm plums at room temperature for maximum flavour until they yield to gentle pressure. Once fully ripe, eat or cook them within 2 days.

Versatile Iceberg lettuce can be cut into chunky wedges for Iceberg lettuce, cucumber, bacon & egg salad, shredded for burger fillings, or use the large crisp leaves as cups to serve a spicy meat filling like San Choy Bau

Versatile and tasty snake beans are in season. Snake beans are about 30cm in length and have a delicate flavour.

In Italian families, gathering annually for Tomato or Passata Day is a beloved tradition, celebrated between late January and early March. This time-honoured event involves making and bottling fresh tomato sauce. Plump, ripe Roma tomatoes from Victoria are ideal for the occasion

Zucchinis are a breeze to prepare. There is no need to peel; simply slice, dice, or grate. Their mild flavour makes them a hit with the kids. Add them to pasta dishes, rissoles, cakes, and salads.

Add a few mushrooms to the grill to make your Australian Day barbecue healthier and tastier. Sizzle up some large Jumbo flats or thread button mushrooms and halloumi cheese on skewers and cook until warmed through

Eggplants are at their best value from late summer to early autumn as Sydney growers harvest quality crops. Select smooth eggplant with firm, satin-like, glossy skin, which feels heavy for its size.

Broccolini is a top buy. Fast and easy to cook, serve broccolini warm with a dressing or toss cold through a salad. Try this broccolini with pancetta & almonds.