Category: News

As we step into April, tomatoes begin to shine in seasonal cooking. While they’re available year-round, spring marks the return of lighter, fresher dishes—and tomatoes are at the heart of them.

They’re incredibly versatile—working in soups, salads, pasta dishes, and roasted meals. They also pair beautifully with other spring ingredients like spinach, basil, and new potatoes.

From a nutritional point of view, tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.

April is the perfect time to start incorporating more tomato-based meals as we move away from heavier winter comfort food.

Lighter evenings are arriving, and that means one thing — it’s time to start entertaining again.

Tomatoes are a brilliant centrepiece ingredient for spring gatherings. They’re colourful, versatile and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Here’s how to build a relaxed spring table:

• A large platter of roasted tomatoes with sausages or grilled chicken

• Fresh tomato and herb salad

• Homemade tomato chutney for burgers

• Warm crusty bread

Tomatoes add colour and freshness that instantly make a table feel seasonal.

Keep it simple, focus on quality and let fresh ingredients do the work.

Spring entertaining doesn’t need to be complicated — just thoughtful.

Tomatoes are at their best when paired with quality ingredients.

Their natural acidity cuts through rich meats beautifully — which is why they work so well alongside sausages, burgers, steaks and roasts.

When you choose quality meat:

• The flavour is fuller

• The texture cooks better

• You need fewer added ingredients

Add fresh tomatoes — whether roasted, fresh or slow-cooked — and you create balance on the plate.

Spring cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. A good cut of meat, fresh tomatoes, olive oil and herbs can create something truly special.

At R & L Holt, quality ingredients are always at the heart of every meal.

Tomatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen — and as we head into spring, they bring freshness, colour and natural sweetness to so many dishes.

Here are 5 easy ways to make the most of them:

1. Slow-Roasted Tomatoes

Roast with olive oil and garlic until soft and caramelised. Perfect alongside grilled meats.

2. Fresh Tomato & Basil Salad

Keep it simple — sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil and sea salt. A perfect side for steak or chicken.

3. Tomato & Sausage Pasta

Roasted tomatoes stirred through pasta with sliced sausages create a rich, natural sauce.

4. Stuffed Tomatoes

Fill large tomatoes with herby mince and bake for a lighter evening meal.

5. Homemade Tomato Relish

The perfect accompaniment to burgers or sandwiches.

Tomatoes work beautifully with quality meat, enhancing flavour without overpowering it.

Good food doesn’t have to be expensive. Using tinned ingredients, seasonal produce and simple recipes can keep costs low while still enjoying nutritious meals.

Budget-friendly staples:

• Tinned tomatoes

• Pasta & rice

• Beans & lentils

• Frozen vegetables

Smart shopping leads to better eating and less stress.

With food prices continuing to rise, reducing waste at home has never been more important. Not only does it save money, but it also helps reduce environmental impact and makes food shopping more efficient.

Here are five simple, realistic ways to cut food waste this February.

1. Plan Your Meals for the Week

One of the biggest causes of food waste is buying without a plan. Creating a simple weekly meal plan helps you only buy what you actually need.

Even writing down:

• 3 main dinners

• 2 lunches

• A few easy breakfasts

can prevent overbuying and impulse purchases.

2. Use Your Freezer More Often

The freezer is one of the most underused tools in the kitchen.

You can freeze:

• Bread

• Leftover meals

• Cooked rice and pasta

• Soups and sauces

Freezing food extends its life and gives you quick meals on busy days.

3. Rely on Tinned and Long-Life Foods

Tinned foods like tomatoes, beans and vegetables have long shelf lives and reduce the pressure of using food quickly.

They’re ideal for:

• Last-minute meals

• Batch cooking

• Emergency dinners when the fridge is empty

Keeping a well-stocked cupboard helps avoid takeaway temptations too.

4. Store Food Correctly

Incorrect storage causes food to spoil faster than necessary.

Simple tips:

• Keep potatoes in a cool, dark place

• Store herbs in water like flowers

• Use airtight containers for leftovers

• Don’t overfill the fridge

A well-organised fridge makes it easier to see what needs using.

5. Get Creative with Leftovers

Leftovers don’t have to be boring.

Leftover vegetables can become:

• Soups

• Stir-fries

• Pasta sauces

• Omelettes

Leftover meals can often be mixed together into something new with a little creativity.

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.

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.

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.

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.