It’s a Japanese way to mix sesame sauces in with food – I suspect the reason is because the sauce is so good it can’t help being slipped into all sorts of dishes…

Most cooks agree that when you have an amazing ingredient it is best to prepare it as simply as possible. And they are not wrong: this must be the very best way to eat asparagus. Steamed and presented in a big stack to share. Butter, salt and lemon are optional extras…

Asparagus and shellfish have an affinity with one another – prawns and crab are known as being particularly good partners…

In San Joaquin County, at Stockton California they stage an Asparagus Festival in April. Stockton is the centre of asparagus growing in California so it makes sense to celebrate the crop…

Inspired by the ricotta tarts made in Naples at Easter.

Sausages and seasonal squash make a great combo. Here they are served with sage and onion gravy to make a perfect autumn supper.

Beans, courgettes and sweetcorn all in season – here’s a great pasta salad that combines all three with grilled halloumi.