Ready for summer? River Cottage head chef Gelf Alderson shows us how to create truly knockout salads using simple, seasonal ingredients.

Gelf Alderson has spent years serving up original, veg-centric meals to delight the guests at River Cottage. His recipes redefine the idea of salad, as playful flavour pairings, clever techniques and vibrant dressings bring out the very best in seasonal produce. With all the delicious summer fruit and veg coming into season right now, you’ll be spoilt for choice with these tantalising recipes.

Why not try:

Tomatoes and raspberries with mint

• Tomatoes and raspberries with mint
• Cavolo nero, peach, cashews and blue cheese
• Barbequed leeks, spelt and sunflower seeds
• Lentils with green herbs and lemon.

Divided into easy chapters like Quick, Hearty, Spicy and Lunchbox, these recipes use everyday ingredients, and give plenty of suggestions for seasonal swaps and delicious alternatives. With more than 80 recipes and countless more variations to be explored, Gelf demonstrates how, with a bit of creativity and flair, simple ingredients can be combined to make truly great salads