June: Discovering the delight of local, seasonal food and changing weather here in the UK
As the vibrant colors of spring give way to the warmth of summer, June is a delightful month here in the UK...
With longer days and milder temperatures, this transitional period brings an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce to tantalise our taste buds. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the delightful UK foods that appear on our shelves during this time of the year, and how the changing weather sets the stage for a delightful dining experience.
June marks the arrival of a diverse range of delicious fruits and vegetables in the UK; Nature's generosity ensures that our shelves are brimming with an array of enticing options for both home cooks and professional chefs.
As spring begins to transition into the new season, the temperatures steadily rise, providing the perfect environment for the growth and ripening of various crops. The longer days and increased sunlight allow plants to thrive, resulting in a plentiful harvest of seasonal treats. The warmer climate also invites alfresco dining, as people take advantage of the pleasant weather to enjoy picnics, barbecues, and garden parties. The longer daylight hours allow for extended evenings spent in outdoor spaces, relishing the company of loved ones while savoring the culinary delights of June.
June is an exciting time for food enthusiasts in the UK, offering a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce and the opportunity to embrace the changing weather. From luscious strawberries to tender asparagus, the flavors and textures of the season are a true delight for the senses. As nature's offerings align with the warmth of the sun, it's the perfect moment to enjoy the vibrant colors, tastes, and aromas of June's culinary delights.
Fruit and Veg
Some of the star fruit and vegetables in June include:
- Strawberries: A quintessential symbol of UK summertime, strawberries reach their peak in June. Juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor, they are incredibly versatile and perfect for fresh salads, jams, pies, and desserts.
- Rhubarb: Did you know, rhubarb is technically a vegetable? Although it is typically treated as a fruit due to its tart, fragrant taste. In June, this vibrant pink stalk takes center stage, offering a tangy element to pies, crumbles, and compotes.
- Peas: With their delicate sweetness, fresh peas add a burst of flavor to dishes. Enjoy them in salads, risottos, pasta dishes, or simply steamed (or microwaved!) and served as a side.
- New Potatoes: The arrival of new potatoes in June is a cause for celebration. Boil, roast, or sauté these tender tubers and savor their buttery texture - served as a tasty potato salad, they are the perfect accompaniment to a BBQ as their natural sweetness pairs well with a variety of herbs and sauces.
- Asparagus: While asparagus season typically begins in April, it extends comfortably into June. Asparagus spears are a treat served with simple ingredients grilled and drizzled with lemon juice, olive oil and seasoning, or served alongside poached eggs for a delightful brunch.
Seafood
June is also a fantastic month for seafood lovers here in the UK as our coastal waters come live with an array of exciting creatures! Marine life thrives in warmer temperatures - from succulent crab to plump mussels and scallops, the seafood in season this month lends itself beautifully to summer picnics and BBQs:
- Cod, coley, haddock, plaice, sea bream, pollack, sea trout and halibut
- Sardines, herring and whitbait
- Langoustine, prawns and shrimp
- Crab, whelks and scallops
Whether enjoyed in traditional fish and chip shops or as part of innovative dishes in high-end restaurants across the country, this is a fantastic time of year to enjoy seafood by the coast on a sunny windswept day!
We encourage you to head to your local market, embrace the changing weather, and indulge in the delectable treats this wonderful month has to offer.
The Quality Food Awards
Are you a farmer, grower, fisher or retailer that is involved in the food industry? If so, we would love to hear from you!
In one year a single potato scooped up an award, which highlights the significance of quality even in the simplest things.
By entering the QFAs, you will have the opportunity to gain recognition across the food and drink industry, and customers, as well as contributing to the reputation of UK agriculture as a producer of exceptional award-winning food.
Good luck!
