Market fresh Report - Week Ending Oct 19th Oct

Late-season lemons are a kitchen essential – their juice and zest lift everything from marinades and cakes to roast chicken and seafood. Choose lemons that feel heavy for their size for maximum juice.

Fragrant and tropical papaya from the Mossman region of Far North Queensland is another excellent buy. Choose fruit with a sweet aroma and bright, unblemished flesh for the best eating experience

Fresh Australian-grown green asparagus is in abundance, adding crunch and colour to every meal. Asparagus is delicious grilled, roasted, or tossed through stir-fries with chicken, beef, or pork. Keep an eye out for multi-buy specials this week. Also in season are bunches of mini and white asparagus.

Cucumbers are crisp, cool, and exceptional value. Slice them into fresh salads, toss with cherry tomatoes and herbs, add to green smoothies or grate and make a tzatziki dip.

Super-healthy and ultra-versatile broccoli is a family staple and terrific value.

Creamy Hass avocados are rich in healthy fats and nutrients. Start your day with smashed avocado on toast topped with sliced boiled egg and tomato – a breakfast classic.

Crisp and vibrant bok choy continues to shine in spring. Great quality and value. It’s perfect for adding to a fast and fresh stir-fry.

It’s a fabulous time for berries! Western Australian strawberries are luscious and flavourful, and plump, antioxidant-rich blueberries are a top buy.

Loquats have begun to appear at the markets, signalling the change of season. Their sweet, slightly tangy flavour is a springtime treat – enjoy them fresh or poached with honey and yoghurt.

Flavoursome broad beans are in season and a good buy. Double shell them, simmer until tender, and toss into salads, risottos, or lamb dishes. They pair beautifully with mushrooms, artichokes, and spinach – try them in a broad bean, spinach and lamb salad.

Australian asparagus is abundant, tender, and beautifully priced. Grill, roast, or pan-sear for a quick, healthy side — or stir through scrambled eggs with parmesan for an easy spring meal.

Stringless machine harvested green beans are crisp, tender, and plentiful this week. Quick to cook and full of goodness, they’re perfect for stir-fries, salads, or steamed with butter and lemon. For extra flavour, toss blanched beans with olive oil, garlic, and toasted almonds for a simple, delicious side.

Celery is crisp, refreshing, and excellent value. Add a fresh crunch to salads, wraps, and grazing platters, or dice and add to a risotto. For a simple, seasonal snack, enjoy celery sticks with whipped ricotta, lemon zest and fresh herbs.

Nutrient-packed kale offers fantastic value. Use it as you would spinach or toss it into stir-fry or toss shredded kale leaves with olive oil, lemon juice and shaved parmesan for a bright, zesty spring salad — perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Fragrant Northern Territory mangoes are sweet and tangy. Choose from the ever-popular Kensington Pride or the larger, golden-fleshed R2E2 variety

Enjoy superbly juicy blood oranges, full of natural sweetness and colour. They’re perfect in a spring salad with fennel and chicken or simply enjoyed fresh as a vitamin-rich snack.

Mild in flavour and endlessly versatile zucchini is perfect for low-carb cooking. Spiralise them into noodles or toss with broccolini, zucchini noodle and pork for a quick and healthy meal.

Lebanese cucumbers are crisp, cool, and excellent value. Add them to salads or toss with tomato, coriander, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh side dish or salsa topping.

Tender, mild English spinach is a spring favourite and a bargain. Enjoy it raw in salads or blend it with cashews, tahini, lemon juice and garlic for a nutrient-packed dip.

Queensland-grown cherry tomatoes are plentiful, sweet, and glossy red. Roast them with parmesan crumbs for an easy, flavour-packed side dish.