As a fresh produce wholesaler, our commitment is not just to deliver the finest fruits and vegetables, but also to guide chefs through the journey of flavours and textures that result in extraordinary dishes. In this article, we share insightful tips for fresh food pairings, covering meats, seafood, and a spectrum of flavours that harmonise seamlessly with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
- Consider Seasonality
Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season together.
Seasonal produce often shares similar growing conditions, leading to complementary flavours and textures. This ensures that the ingredients are at their peak freshness, enhancing the overall quality of the dish. Visit our seasonality chart that highlights what fresh produce is in season in Britain throughout different months of the year.
Chicken and asparagus:
The mild flavour of chicken pairs harmoniously with the earthy notes of asparagus, creating a well-balanced and comforting dish.
Halibut and artichoke:
The contrast of halibut’s mild, flaky texture and artichoke’s tender, earthy profile, creating a delightful spring combination.
- Balance Sweet and Savoury
Combine sweet fruits with savoury vegetables for a well-rounded flavour profile.
The natural sweetness of fruits can complement the savoury and sometimes bitter notes of vegetables. For example, pairing roasted beets with fresh orange segments or adding strawberries to a spinach salad creates a delightful contrast.
Pork and apples:
The savoury sweetness of pork complements the natural sugars in apples, resulting in a delightful juxtaposition of flavours.
Shrimp and mango:
The sweetness of mango enhances the succulence of shrimp, offering a tropical twist to seafood dishes.
- Play with Textures:
Mix textures by combining crisp fruits with tender vegetables.
The interplay of textures adds interest to the dish. Consider pairing crunchy apples with creamy avocado in a salad or adding diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch to a fruit salsa.
Beef and Brussels sprouts:
The richness of beef is cut through by the slightly bitter and nutty taste of Brussels sprouts, providing a satisfying and robust pairing.
Swordfish with roasted root vegetables:
The robust texture of swordfish complements the hearty and earthy notes of roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
- Consider Colour Harmony:
Aim for a vibrant and visually appealing colour palette.
Colourful dishes not only look appetising but also often indicate a diverse range of nutrients. Create visually appealing combinations, such as red and yellow bell peppers with juicy tomatoes or a rainbow fruit salad with berries, citrus, and tropical fruits.
Scallops and pea puree:
The delicate sweetness of scallops is complemented by the freshness of pea puree, creating a visually appealing and delicious pairing.
Turkey and cranberries:
The savoury turkey balancing the sweet-tart cranberry, but also for their colour harmony, as the warm, rich hues of roasted turkey harmonise visually with the vibrant red tones of cranberry, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
- Match Intensity of Flavours
Pair bold-flavoured vegetables with fruits that can stand up to their intensity.
If using robust vegetables like rocket or kale, consider pairing them with fruits like pomegranate or mango to balance the flavours. This ensures that neither the fruit nor the vegetable dominates the palate.
Salmon and lemon:
The fatty richness of salmon is balanced by the acidity and brightness of citrus, creating a refreshing and flavourful combination.
Duck and orange:
The rich, savoury profile of duck meat complementing the sweet and citrusy notes of orange, creating a harmonious balance.
Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in successful pairings, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you’re creating a refreshing salad, a dynamic salsa, or a side dish, thoughtful pairing of fresh fruits and vegetables can turn a simple dish into culinary perfection. For menu inspo, you can access our library of over 100 recipes, here.
The tips provided offer a guide to navigating the world of fresh food pairings, whether that be flavours with meats, seafood or exploring the delicate balance of different fruits and vegetables. By understanding seasonality, embracing diverse textures, and experimenting with flavour profiles, chefs can transform their kitchens into stages where each dish captivates diners.
We are here to support our customers in their journey of fresh food pairings and have many ways in which we can help, such as giving access to our development chefs, seasonal buyers and fresh experts. To become a customer, register here.
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