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Author: Amy Riley

Quick & Healthy Tomato Pasta for Busy January Evenings

Posted on by Amy Riley

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.

January Growing – What’s Happening in the Greenhouse

Posted on by Amy Riley

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 Tomato & Roasted Vegetable Soup

Posted on by Amy Riley

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.

End-of-Year Gratitude from R&L Holt

Posted on by Amy Riley

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!

How Greenhouse Farming Helps Us Eat Fresh in December

Posted on by Amy Riley

Ever wondered how fresh, flavourful tomatoes are available even during the chilliest months? Greenhouse growing plays a major role in supporting British consumers throughout winter.

  • Controlled temperatures protect crops from extreme weather.
  • Efficient irrigation systems reduce water waste.
  • Integrated pest management minimises chemical use.
  • Sustainable heating keeps vines healthy during the coldest months.
  • Local distribution ensures tomatoes reach shops quickly, preserving freshness.

December is a tough month for traditional farming, but innovative growing techniques allow R&L Holt to deliver high-quality produce year-round.

Greenhouse farming not only benefits consumers, it contributes to a more sustainable UK food system.

Cosy December One-Pot Tomato & Chickpea Stew

Posted on by Amy Riley

One-pot recipes are a lifesaver in December when schedules get hectic. This tomato & chickpea stew is warm, filling, and full of nutritious ingredients, perfect for plant-based eaters and busy families alike.

Tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, while chickpeas offer protein and fibre. Add warming spices like cumin, cinnamon, or chilli flakes to bring festive depth to the dish.

Recipe:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp cumin & ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 600g chopped R&L Holt tomatoes
  • 1 can chickpeas
  • Spinach (optional)
  • Seasoning

Simmer everything for 20–25 minutes. Serve with rice, couscous, or crusty bread.

Comforting and effortless — ideal for cold December nights.

How to Store Tomatoes Properly During Winter

Posted on by Amy Riley

Did you know tomatoes often lose their flavour when stored incorrectly? In winter, when kitchen temperatures vary, proper storage is even more important. Here’s how to keep your tomatoes fresh and tasty for longer.

  • Avoid the fridge: Cold temperatures dull flavour. Store tomatoes at room temperature whenever possible.
  • Keep them stem-side down: This reduces air exposure and slows spoilage.
  • Use breathable bowls: Avoid plastic bags; instead, store in ceramic bowls or on a countertop.
  • Separate overly ripe tomatoes: One overripe tomato can speed up ripening of others.

Winter homes may feel cooler, but as long as tomatoes are kept away from draughts, they maintain their texture and flavour beautifully.

Proper storage means less waste — and more delicious meals made with R&L Holt tomatoes.

Festive Tomato & Mozzarella Skewers (Perfect Party Canapés!)

Posted on by Amy Riley

Christmas entertaining doesn’t have to mean heavy dishes. These festive tomato & mozzarella skewers offer a refreshing burst of flavour and colour, perfect for Christmas buffets and family gatherings.

Using vibrant cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella pearls and fresh basil creates a festive red-white-green palette reminiscent of the season. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a beautiful finish.

They’re quick to assemble, visually appealing, and universally loved, making them ideal when you need a fast, crowd-pleasing canapé.

Recipe:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Mozzarella pearls
  • Fresh basil
  • Olive oil & balsamic glaze
  • Small skewers or cocktail sticks

Layer ingredients onto skewers, drizzle lightly, and serve fresh.

Light, delicious, and full of festive flair, a simple way to impress your guests with high-quality R&L Holt tomatoes.

December Seasonal Eating Guide — Why Fresh Tomatoes Still Matter

Posted on by Amy Riley

December might not be peak tomato season in the UK, but thanks to modern growing methods, you can still enjoy nutrient-rich, flavourful British tomatoes. Here’s why choosing fresh, responsibly grown tomatoes matters even during the winter months.

  • Nutritional boost: Tomatoes remain a top source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and lycopene — all essential for immune support during cold and flu season.
  • Sustainability: Choosing tomatoes grown locally reduces food miles compared to imported winter produce.
  • Consistency: Controlled growing means reliable freshness, flavour, and quality, even when the weather outside is frosty.
  • Versatility: Tomatoes can brighten hearty winter dishes such as stews, bakes, and festive platters.

This December, don’t overlook the humble tomato, it’s a small choice that supports local growers and boosts your winter wellbeing.

Warming Winter Tomato & Lentil Soup

Posted on by Amy Riley

As the temperatures drop, nothing hits the spot like a hearty, nourishing bowl of soup. This winter tomato & lentil soup showcases R&L Holt’s beautifully ripened tomatoes and provides a protein-packed, vegetarian-friendly meal ideal for busy December days.

This soup blends the natural sweetness of vine-ripened tomatoes with earthy red lentils to create a silky, warming dish. Lentils simmer down to thicken the soup naturally, while tomatoes deliver freshness and brightness, a welcome contrast during the darker winter months.

You can customise the flavours with smoked paprika for depth, or swirl in coconut milk for added creaminess. It freezes well too, making it perfect for meal prepping during the hectic festive season.

Recipe:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 500g R&L Holt tomatoes, chopped
  • 150g red lentils
  • 1 litre vegetable stock
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Sauté the onion and garlic, add the paprika, tomatoes, lentils and stock, then simmer for 25 minutes. Blend until smooth.

Simple, delicious, and wholesome, the perfect winter warmer using locally grown tomatoes.

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