As we enter the start of summer, there's lots of incredible seasonal produce to cook with. June's longer and warmer evenings lend themselves nicely to barbecues, while sunny days are perfect for enjoying zingy salads and top-notch seafood. Here's what ingredients are fresh this month, plus top recipes to make.
Sections
Vegetables
Asparagus and new potatoes, especially Jersey Royals, are now well in season as are aubergines, courgettes and fennel. It's also time to say hello to the new crop of carrots, beans and summer greens, like lettuce, runner beans and mange tout. Tomatoes, although technically a berry, reign supreme in June and there's a wealth of varieties appearing in supermarkets and veg boxes and at farmer's markets. This is also the best month for leafy, fragrant soft herbs like basil, mint, parsley and coriander.
Barbecued new potatoes with tarragon, peanuts and chipotle
Runner bean and tomato casserole
Grilled lettuce with buttermilk dressing
Meat
Spring lamb is still widely available, but coming to the end of its season. Chicken and pork are both excellent meats to throw on the barbecue – try experimenting with different marinades and cuts to find your perfect flavour combination. Good-quality sausages and burgers are top choices for the grill as well.
Chicken legs with Alabama white sauce
Seafood
There's plenty to love about seafood in June. Crab is a top shellfish choice this month, fabulous in everything from sandwiches to pasta. Oily fish like tuna, mackerel and salmon are all sturdy enough to hold their own on a barbecue, and are also excellent pan-fried, grilled or served in a salad. Shrimp, squid, langoustines and scallops also lend themselves nicely to summery recipes.
Barbecued lime and chilli tiger prawns
Salmon, courgette and lemon kebabs
Baked scallops with chipotle butter
Fruit
June is a wonderful month for fruit. Most berries are widely available – think the classic trio of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, but don't forget gooseberries, blackcurrants and redcurrants that are coming into season. Plenty of stone fruit like apricots and nectarines, as well as first of the cherries are kicking about too. The first of this season's watermelons are making an appearance, while it's time to wave goodbye to rhubarb for another year.
Ice cream raspberry meringue cake
Lead image: Elena_Tavi/Shutterstock