AS I tossed together a bowl of Russian Salad for dinner last night, couldn't help marveling at the great idea that came to me this summer, freezing vegetables. I know, I know, it isn't the most original idea, but it is one that didn't click untill my last trip to Dehradun.

I arrived in Dehra Dun at the trailing end of winter this year. Disappointed that I had missed the season of one of my favourite vegetables, broccoli (Yes, broccoli was all over Dehra Dun this year), so imagine how happy I was to discover that my ma-in-law had frozen boxes full of it along with the greenest, sweetest peas and vibrant orange carrots from our garden in anticipation of our visit.

In fact the moment I saw the frozen peas and carrots I was instantly reminded of the Russian Salad sandwiches we ate at Mumbai's WIA club as children. Succulent, cooked vegetables tossed in mayonnaise and served on toasted white bread - I just had to make it, of course.

Photograph: stock.Xchng