Lychees

Native, to South China, Lychees found their way to Australia during the gold rush in the 1870’s. These small oval fruits have red bumpy skin that easily peels away to reveal white juicy flesh. The flesh has a sweet and delicate flavour, and a firm jelly-like texture that is most similar to a grape.

Just one of these pint-sized fruits pack as much antioxidant Vitamin C as a small orange and is medium GI, so it releases energy slowly.

Lychees do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so when buying select a firm fruit with bright skin. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

To prepare, remove the skins and slice the fruit to remove the stone. Lychees can be eaten raw on their own, in a tropical fruit salad, as a garnish for cocktails, blended into sorbet or icy poles, or added to a cheese platter.

 

Mango

The king of fruit, mangoes are Australia’s favourite seasonal fruit and considered sacred in their native India. Mangoes thrive in tropical Australia, so from November through to February we are lucky enough to have access to beautiful locally grown fruit!

Mangoes are a rich source of Vitamin C, ant aging beta-carotene, and potassium to help lower blood pressure and keep our body’s electrolytes in balance.

The versatile sweet and tangy flavour of mangoes can be enjoyed by itself as a healthy summer snack, or mixed into both sweet and savoury dishes. Try blending mango into a smoothie or yoghurt lassi, make into sorbet, or use as a garnish for cheesecake or tarts. For savoury dishes pair with chicken or seafood in salads and stir-fries, or add a mango salsa or chutney for a fresh contrast to heavier curries.

 

Strawberries

Delightful blush red strawberries are a favourite bite sized treat for children and adults alike. Juicy and sweet, strawberries are in fact not a berry at all, but a fruit from the same plant family as roses.

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of manganese for healthy bones, and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Due to high levels of critic acid, strawberries have also been used as a natural way to whiten teeth.

To keep strawberries fresh and blemish free for longer, line a container with paper towel and lay out the strawberries in a single layer. Cover and store in the fridge.

For a classic summer combination, pair strawberries with a generous dollop of cream on scones or shortcake. You can also enjoy strawberries fresh, in muffins and cakes, blended into smoothies or juices, or dipped in chocolate for a decadent treat. Use softer strawberries to make a delicious sauce for ice-cream and other desserts by heating with sugar and water, or a sweet wine until they reduce.