Swordfish

A firm, meaty fish rich in heart-healthy oils, swordfish has been known to strike fear into the hearts of those with mercury concerns, but fortunately government guidelines recommend moderation rather than abstinence. Unlike more delicate seafood, it’s robust enough to be teamed with strong flavours, and won’t flake apart in a chargrill pan or on a barbecue.

Mandarins

Popular with parents for being the fruit least likely to come home in kids’ lunch boxes, mandarins are the neater, sweeter citrus. Use in place of oranges and choose varieties with fewer seeds, such as Imperial or Afourer.

Granny Smiths

The humble Granny Smith may not be the sexiest apple on the shelf, but it’s certainly one of the most versatile. Crisp, firm and a little tart, it beats the rest for baking and lends crunch to winter salads such as beetroot and feta, or walnut and radicchio.

Turmeric

Take my advice and try using fresh turmeric root in place of powdered for a more subtle spice and hue. As well as imparting a complex, earthy flavour to your food, turmeric (both types) scores top health marks due to the anti-inflammatory powers of curcumin, the compound that gives it its colour. Wear gloves to prevent staining, or clean up with lemon juice.

What else to buy in June

• beetroot
• brussels sprouts
• celeriac
• fennel
• grapefruit
• Jerusalem artichokes
• okra
• oranges
• pears
• quince
• rhubarb
• silverbeet