Great food doesn’t require complicated techniques—it starts with good ingredients and thoughtful preparation. At Gertrude Grocer, we believe that even the most modest dishes can become impressive with just a few small touches. Whether you're cooking a weeknight pasta or a basic grain salad, the right method or finishing touch can make a big difference.
Let’s explore how you can take your daily meals from standard to standout, using some of the pantry staples and fresh produce found right here in our store.
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1. Layer Flavour with Finishing Oils and Vinegars
Drizzling a dish with a quality extra virgin olive oil or aged vinegar right before serving can intensify flavour and aroma. Try:
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Goldi Punchy Extra Virgin Olive Oil – a rich, punchy extra virgin olive oil that adds complexity, fruitiness and flavour. A finishing oil is a chef's kiss to the simplest of dishes
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White balsamic glaze – adds a sweet-tangy pop to salads and grilled proteins
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Truffle oil – use sparingly over mushroom risotto or creamy mashed potatoes
2. Use Flavoured Salts and Seasoning Blends
Simple seasoning can bring out complexity in everyday ingredients. A pinch of the right salt can transform tomatoes, avocados, even boiled potatoes. Stock up on:
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Truffle salt – earthy and rich, great on fried eggs or popcorn
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Smoked sea salt – adds depth to grilled vegetables or roasted meats
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Dukkah or za’atar – for sprinkling over hummus, labneh or roast cauliflower
3. Add Crunch and Texture
A crunchy topping makes a meal more satisfying and interesting. Consider:
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Toasted seeds or nuts – sunflower, almonds, pine nuts
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Sourdough croutons – tossed in olive oil and herbs from our bread range
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Fried shallots or garlic chips – available in-store for garnishing noodles and rice dishes
4. Brighten with Citrus and Fresh Herbs
Acidity lifts and balances richer flavours. Use our selection of fresh winter citrus like lemons, limes, and mandarins to:
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Finish fish dishes or roast chicken
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Whisk into vinaigrettes
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Add zest to baked goods and marinades
Pair citrus with fresh herbs such as parsley, mint, or chives for a clean finish.
5. Upgrade Your Pantry Staples
Swapping in gourmet versions of everyday items adds depth without needing to adjust your whole recipe. Try:
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Don Antonio or Lil Bella pasta sauces – made with premium tomatoes and herbs
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Delverde or Don Antonio pasta – bronze-cut for perfect sauce cling
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Capriccio legumes – Italian chickpeas or lentils that cook beautifully and taste fresh
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Ridiculously Delicious peanut butter – smooth or crunchy, it’s great in savoury sauces or dressings
6. Don’t Underestimate a Garnish
A meal that looks good often tastes better too. Simple garnishes like:
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Fresh microgreens
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A dollop of crème fraîche or yoghurt
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A drizzle of herb oil
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Citrus zest or shaved cheese
…can make the difference between a meal that feels ordinary and one that feels composed.
7. Use Condiments Creatively
You don’t always need a full recipe overhaul. A teaspoon of mustard in a dressing, a spoon of pesto on a soup, or a splash of hot sauce in scrambled eggs can change the whole character of a dish.
Look for:
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Fabbri 1905 syrups for sweet or savoury experimentation
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Auricchio Fonduta truffle cheese sauce as a finish for steamed vegetables
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Premium mustards, relishes, and pickles from our pantry section
Cook Differently with Gertrude Grocer
Whether you’re preparing dinner for one or feeding a family, simple upgrades to ingredients and preparation can make everyday meals more memorable. Come explore our curated range of condiments, oils, vinegars, and fresh produce—everything you need to make cooking more rewarding.