In NZ, we are lucky to have a vast selection of fresh foods on our doorstep; seafood, dairy, beef, lamb, pork, poultry, farmed and wild meats, tomatoes, kiwifruit, avocados and berries are just a selection of our local faire.
I recommend adapting and modifying recipes to include cheaper and more readily available produce. If you are growing fruit, vegetables or herbs, swap with someone you know that is growing something different. Even living in the city you can grow herbs on your balcony or out of planter boxes. Find recipes to preserve your home-grown produce so you can enjoy it all year round.
You can adapt this recipe to any season; use apple instead of pear, if walnuts are cheaper than hazelnuts use those, use a sharp, crumbly blue cheese if you prefer. Add crispy bacon lardons or soft ribbons of prosciutto, the possibilities are absolutely endless….. I only ask that you keep the croutons and vinaigrette as I have recommended; the chewy croutons balance the crispy fruit and nuts, and the vinaigrette is the perfect balance of tart and creaminess.