Strawberries 250g

Fresh strawberries are one of the great simple pleasures, and a good punnet makes all the difference. Look for berries that are deeply red all the way to the hull, firm to the touch, and fragrant. That sweet strawberry scent when you open the punnet is your best guide to great eating. Avoid punnets with pale or white shoulders or any soft, mushy spots.

Strawberries are at their best in the warmer months when supply is plentiful and the flavour is at its brightest. That is the time to eat them by the punnetful.

Take them out of the fridge 20 minutes before eating for the best flavour. Eat them fresh as a snack, slice them over porridge or yoghurt, pile them onto a pavlova, or blend them into a smoothie. They also make beautiful jams, sauces, and baked desserts.