What's in season and why it matters – a guide to British-grown fruit and veg with Harriet Cowan
“I’m passionate about using my platform to raise awareness of the brilliant work that British farmers do to bring amazing quality food to our tables.
I’ve loved teaming up with Aldi to find out more about the fruit and veg we grow on home soil, and to help shine a light on buying British when it’s in season.
When you choose British produce, you’re supporting farmers who are out there in all weather, doing a job that’s completely connected to the land and the seasons. That really matters.
Life on the farm is busy and unpredictable, so I cook in a very straightforward way.
For me, it’s not about complicated recipes”
We've teamed up with farmer and TV personality Harriet Cowan to help spread the word about the amazing fresh produce we grow in the UK, highlighting what's in season and how to make the most of it.
Here’s Harriet's recipe picks, a guide to what's in season and a closer look at the British suppliers making it all possible.
Our guide to what British fruit and veg tastes best and when.
We’ve created this handy guide to highlight what’s in season and when it’s likely to be tasting its best in the UK.
Spring (March-May)
Spring marks the start of the British growing year - fields coming back to life, new crops taking root, and the first fresh produce of the season appearing, including sweet British peas and punchy rhubarb at their seasonal best.
Harriet’s seasonal selection:
“These are exactly the kind of dishes I like to cook in spring – really simple, really fresh, and they let British produce do what it does best. The peas are sweet and vibrant, and the rhubarb adds that lovely sharpness that just wakes everything up.”
Summer (June-August)
Summer is peak British abundance – long days in the fields, fast-growing crops, and some of the freshest produce of the year.
Harriet’s seasonal selection:
“Summer food needs to be quick but still satisfying. British peppers and sweetcorn are at their absolute best this time of year – you barely need to do anything to them, they just taste brilliant.”
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is harvest season across British farms – when fields are full, crops are gathered in, and cooking naturally turns towards richer, more comforting food.
Harriet’s seasonal selection:
“Autumn is when I naturally start cooking more comforting food. British squash is brilliant this time of year - it’s simple, it’s full of flavour, and it doesn’t need much doing to it. This kind of dish just feels right when the weather turns.”
Winter (December-February)
Winter is when British-grown veg really comes into its own – simple ingredients transformed into hearty, warming dishes that deliver real comfort.
Harriet’s seasonal selection:
“Winter veg is all about making the most of what’s available. British carrots are so naturally sweet, and this is a really easy way to turn something simple into something that feels a bit special and proper comforting.”
