The Times Australia
The Times Food and Dining

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Men's Weekly

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Fresh Ideas for Celebrating the Year of the Snake

  • Written by Jayne Travers-Drapes, Co-Founder of Box Divvy

The Lunar New Year is here, and with it comes the Year of the Snake—a time for fresh beginnings, family connections, and, of course, delicious food. As celebrations kick off, Australian families are turning to summer’s bounty of fresh produce to create vibrant, meaningful meals that honour tradition.

Food, Family, and the Spirit of the Season
The Year of the Snake is about wisdom, mindfulness, and connection. Sharing meals with loved ones, trying new recipes, and cooking together all strengthen those bonds. Whether it’s a simple stir-fry or a grand Lunar New Year feast, the food you prepare can reflect your values, honour traditions, and inspire joy.

Snake beans take centre stage this year. With their long, elegant shape symbolising longevity and prosperity, they are a natural fit for Lunar New Year dishes. Paired with other seasonal stars like bok choy, sweet corn, carrots and dragon fruit, these ingredients bring both flavour and intention to festive feasts.

Seasonal Ingredients to Celebrate the Year of the Snake

This time of year offers a wealth of fresh, locally grown produce to elevate your Lunar New Year table:

  • Snake Beans: Crisp, versatile, and symbolic of long life, these are perfect in stir-fries, salads, or even as a crunchy side.

  • Bok Choy and Asian Greens: A staple for quick, healthy dishes, these greens shine when paired with garlic, ginger, or oyster sauce.

  • Sweet Corn: Add a sweet, vibrant touch to dumplings, soups, or grilled dishes for a modern twist.

  • Carrots and Root Vegetables: Their natural sweetness and versatility make them ideal for hearty vegetarian dishes that bring warmth and colour to your spread.

  • Dragon Fruit: With its vibrant red skin and mildly sweet flesh, dragon fruit is an exotic and nutritious addition to your table. It’s packed with antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins, making it as healthy as it is beautiful.

Celebrating Fresh Beginnings with Fresh Produce

Lunar New Year is a wonderful reminder to embrace the seasons. By choosing what’s fresh and local, we’re not only enjoying better flavour and nutrition—we’re also supporting Australian farmers and celebrating the abundance of summer’s harvest.

At Box Divvy, we’re passionate about connecting communities with fresh, seasonal produce that’s sourced locally. Our local Food Hubs make it easy to eat well while supporting small-scale farmers. This Lunar New Year, it’s easier than ever to prepare meals that are both meaningful and delicious.

As you plan your celebrations, remember that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way to connect, to celebrate, and to look forward with hope and intention. Together, let’s make the Year of the Snake a time of abundance, health, and happiness.

Happy Lunar New Year!

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