Stone Fruits are in Season!

Nothing screams summer more than the sweet, juicy flavors of stone fruits! The term “stone fruit” refers to fruits that contain a hard inner pit or seed, which resembles a stone.  From peaches and nectarines to plums, cherries, and apricots, there is an assortment of stone fruits available. 

Fruits contain essential nutrients to keep us healthy and prevent chronic diseases.  In particular, stone fruits are a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Stone fruits are best eaten fresh between June and September – when they are in season.  Head to your local farmers market or grocery store to enjoy them fresh while you can! Can’t get enough stone fruits? They are also great for canning, preserving, and freezing. Remember all forms of fruit count towards your recommended daily intake!

Listed below are some different ways you incorporate stone fruits into your day:

• Start your morning off with a fruit-filled breakfast! Stone fruits such as peaches, nectarines, and apricots are great on top of waffles, pancakes, cereal, granola, or yogurt to naturally sweeten your morning.  A morning smoothie packed with your choice of frozen fruits can be blended with 100% fruit juice or low-fat milk or yogurt for a tangy treat!
• Enjoy them grilled! Slice your favorite stone fruits in half, carefully remove the pit, brush with olive oil, and place on the grill for a few minutes.  Add grilled stone fruits to salsa or a salad. They’re delicious on their own or with a dollop of yogurt or drizzle of honey. 
• Make homemade jam or jelly! Try your hand at making your own cherry, peach, or plum jam or jelly to go on top of bread or along side your peanut butter sandwich. Keep the sweet taste of summer in your pantry all year long! Click here for creative recipes and safety tips on making your own jams and jellies.
• Take advantage of dried stone fruits!  Dried apricots can be used for baking muffins, scones, and breads, while dried peaches and cherries are a great addition to your homemade trail mix.  Peaches with pecans and cherries with almonds are just a few ideas of fruit and nut pairings to try with your next trail mix!

Be sure to check out MyPlate’s infographic on more ways to enjoy peaches this summer!