Stone Fruit Spotlight: Peaches, Cherries, Plums, Oh My!
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We're in the midst of stone fruit season, so we're shining the spotlight down on this pitted produce.
What is a stone fruit?
A stone fruit, otherwise known as a drupe, is a varietal of fruit known for the big pit right in the middle of the produce's flesh. The term "stone fruit" comes from that very pit, which resembles a stone.
The stone fruit we know and love are synonymous with summer - the heat brings out the very best in them. Nectarines, peaches, plums, cherries and apricots all start appearing in grocery stores in late spring and summer, characterized by that familiar fragrance that screams "summer is here!" These ultra-sweet fruit lend themselves well to summer not only because it's their seasonal time to shine, but because they're delicious raw, like so many summer goodies - or even grilled. They pair well with all sorts of cheeses and herbs, making them great contenders for a spin on a caprese salad or topping a grilled pizza!
The rules for buying stone fruit are fairly consistent for all of them - stay away from bruises, discoloration or shriveling, and use your nose! The most fragrant peaches, nectarines and plums are almost always the most absolute delicious.
How are you shining the spotlight down on stone fruit this season? Turn to some of Giada's recipes below to celebrate the bounty!
Grilled Peach Crostata With Thyme Whipped Cream
This is a great way to use peaches before they’re at their seasonal peak: caramelizing them on the grill and in the crostata gives them vibrant sweetness.
A little spicy, a little sweet – this unusual pizza is a show-stopping summer dinner.
Burrata with Nectarines and Corn
During that short period when both nectarines and corn are in season at the same time, I make this almost every day. Sometimes the corn is so sweet I don’t even cook it; otherwise I grill it briefly to bring the sugars to the surface. It’s a casual, family-style starter, but honestly, I like it so much I’d make it my lunch and dinner! It’s everything I love about summer food.
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