Some of us can dimly remember salads from our childhood which often included a mayonnaise-y vegetable mixture in a tin. Dinky little uniform cubes of firm potato, carrot and peas were mixed with a mayonnaise-style dressing.

It was made by Heinz and you can’t get it now but for something similar with a few tasty extras, more like a Russian Salad, cut peeled waxy potatoes into small even dice and boil for 4-5 minutes until only just tender. Drain and plunge into cold water. Drain again and pat dry.

Cook a similar amount of mixed frozen peas, green beans, sweet corn and carrot batons for 3-4 minutes (the Coop do a good frozen mix with nicely diced carrots. Drain and plunge into cold water. Drain and dry as before. Combine with the potatoes and mix with mayonnaise and a tiny splash of cider vinegar. Finish with sliced cornichons or baby gherkins.

For an even more nostalgic tribute, try using salad cream instead of mayonnaise and cider vinegar.

(Originally from Summer Shorts July 15th 2014)