Tomatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in British kitchens. They’re affordable, nutritious and can be used in hundreds of meals – from soups and sauces to curries and casseroles.
Benefits include:
High in Vitamin C
Low in calories
Long shelf life
Suitable for most diets
Keeping a few tins in the cupboard makes meal planning far easier.
February is the perfect time for comforting, homemade food, and nothing beats a classic tomato and basil soup. It’s simple, nourishing and ideal for using up store-cupboard ingredients.
2 tins chopped tomatoes
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic
1 vegetable stock cube
Handful fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
Salt & pepper
Olive oil
Fry onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
Add tomatoes and stock.
Simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend until smooth, add basil and season.
Perfect served with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
After heavier festive foods, January is the perfect time to reintroduce lighter meals. This tomato and avocado salad brings freshness and colour to winter plates.
Juicy tomatoes paired with creamy avocado and a zesty dressing make this salad simple yet satisfying. It works as a side dish or a light lunch.
Recipe:
R&L Holt tomatoes
Ripe avocado
Red onion
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt & pepper
Combine gently and serve fresh.
A reminder that winter meals don’t have to be dull.
A new year brings an opportunity to reflect and plan. At R&L Holt, sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do.
From reducing energy usage to improving growing efficiencies and supporting local supply chains, the focus for the year ahead is progress — environmentally, socially and agriculturally.
January marks the beginning of another year of responsible growing and commitment to quality.
Traybakes are a January favourite — minimal prep, minimal washing up, maximum flavour. This tomato and chickpea traybake is hearty, warming and packed with plant-based goodness.
The tomatoes soften and burst in the oven, creating a rich base for chickpeas and herbs. Serve with flatbreads, rice or enjoy on its own.
Recipe:
Cherry tomatoes
Chickpeas
Red onion
Olive oil
Smoked paprika
Fresh herbs
Roast everything together until golden and fragrant.
An easy, nourishing dish that fits perfectly with January reset eating.
January often brings a renewed focus on health, and tomatoes remain a valuable part of a balanced winter diet.
Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and natural flavour, tomatoes support immunity and add brightness to winter meals. Their versatility makes healthy eating easier during darker months.
Small food choices can make a big difference to how we feel in January.
January often means busy schedules and early nights, making quick, nutritious meals essential. This tomato-based pasta dish delivers comfort and freshness in under 30 minutes.
Using quality tomatoes as the base creates a naturally rich sauce without the need for heavy ingredients. Add garlic, olive oil and herbs for a classic, satisfying dish that works midweek or at the weekend.
Recipe:
R&L Holt tomatoes
Garlic
Olive oil
Dried pasta
Fresh basil
Parmesan or vegetarian alternative
Simmer tomatoes gently to create a sauce, toss through pasta, and finish with herbs and cheese.
Simple, timeless and perfect for January cooking.
While January may be quiet in the fields, it’s a busy time inside the greenhouse. Careful monitoring ensures tomatoes continue to grow strong and healthy throughout winter.
Growers focus on temperature control, light levels and plant maintenance during colder months. Pruning, feeding and pest management all play a crucial role in maintaining consistent quality.
Every tomato grown in January reflects planning, expertise and attention to detail.
January is the month of comfort food with a healthy twist, and this Tomato & Roasted Vegetable Soup is the perfect way to warm up while keeping meals nourishing and balanced.
Roasting the vegetables first brings out natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the acidity of fresh tomatoes. This soup is rich, filling and packed with vitamins — ideal for those easing back into routines after the festive season.
Recipe:
Tomatoes
Red peppers
Carrots
Red onion
Garlic
Olive oil
Vegetable stock
Herbs (thyme or basil)
Roast vegetables until soft and caramelised, then blend with stock and herbs for a smooth, warming soup.
A simple, wholesome recipe that proves winter meals can still be full of flavour and freshness.
As the year draws to a close, December is a perfect time to reflect on the successes, challenges, and achievements of the past 12 months. At R&L Holt, we’re grateful for the support of our customers, partners, and communities.
This year brought innovation in our growing systems, strengthened partnerships with retailers, and continued commitment to sustainable farming. We’ve worked hard to deliver high-quality tomatoes to households across the UK — even through challenging weather and rising demand.
We also want to thank the dedicated team who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make year-round growing possible.
Wishing everyone a joyful, restful festive season. Here’s to a fresh, vibrant, and tomato-filled 2026!
Why Tomatoes Should Always Be in Your Cupboard
Sustainability Goals for the Year Ahead at R&L Holt
Healthy Eating in January – Why Tomatoes Still Matter
A Classic Tomato & Basil Soup to Warm Up February
Fresh Tomato & Avocado Winter Salad
One-Tray Baked Tomatoes with Chickpeas & Herbs
