Summer is the time of year for juicy blackberries, rich beetroot and vibrant tomatoes, so we’ve put together these recipes using the season’s fruits and vegetables for extra tasty dishes. Eating seasonally is cheaper and better for the planet, and to top it off you get better flavour and texture in return. For a natural summer meal rich with the taste of sunshine, take a look at some of our favourite summer produce recipes.

Salsa chicken

Take the effort out of a showstopping dish by trying our handy chargrilled chicken seasoning with pepper and garlic. Once your main is on the go, substitute the tinned tomatoes in this recipe for fresh and whip up sweet and spicy salsa that puts store-bought jars to shame. Complete with a side of light lemon couscous or pasta with mozzarella, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become your summer star.

English garden soup

We’re big fans of wholesome vegetable soup all year round, but summer is the perfect season to get those more nuanced flavours from your produce. This classic recipe calls for fresh garden peas to add a surprising pop of sweetness to all the traditional tones of potato, leek and carrot. Serve with bruschetta and top with a generous shake of parsley for a refreshing finish.

Swiss chard salad with blackberry vinaigrette

You can make this blackberry clove vinaigrette ahead to bring a slightly acidic, sweet and fruity touch to just about any summer salad. Here, we match it with seasonal Swiss chard, ricotta and farro grains for a dish full of different textures and colours. Keep it handy in the picnic basket for a quick dash of flavour - though expect your friends to ask you to make extra bottles next time.

Smoked salmon and prawns with dill and beetroot

Ah, sweet and earthy beetroot layered with fresh smoked salmon on a crumbly puff pastry - if ever there were a food from heaven, this would be a strong contender. Perfect for stealing the show at any summer party, this delicacy is bursting with pure and simple flavours, all perfected with a little helping hand from the sun.