Easy ways to add seasonal foods to winter meals

• Add a handful of spinach! This is one of the easiest methods of adding extra goodness and we’re known for doing it all year round. Any soup, stew, casserole or bake will work with some spinach thrown in.

• If you’re planning on serving mashed potato with your meal, try substituting half or all of the potatoes for root vegetables. Our favourite combinations are carrot and parsnip or celeriac and potato. Colcannon is another tasty way to up your vegetable count.

• Cauliflower blitzed in a food processor makes a good substitute for rice and will count as one of your five-a-day.

• When making lasagne or spaghetti Bolognese, pad out your beef mince with vegetables. Simply whizz roughly-chopped mushrooms, onions, carrots and garlic together in a mini-chopper or food processor until fine. Fry gently in olive oil for 1-2 minutes, then add the mince and continue cooking as you usually would.

• Don’t forget the frozen food section. Vegetables that have been frozen lock in almost all of their original goodness, but are conveniently ready to cook.

• Tinned beans, lentils and other pulses are easy — and inexpensive — ways to add protein and fibre to soups, stews and casseroles.

• Don’t forget fruits — try adding cooked apples or pears to your meals. These work particularly well with meats such as pork or duck, as these love a touch of sweetness.

• If you’re making dessert, try focusing on those options which will at least count towards your five-a-day, such as fruit crumbles or pies.