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Nectarines

Commonly showcased side by side with peaches, nectarines are a similar, but yet different fruit. The best way to identify the difference between a nectarine and peach is by the lack of fuzz on the nectarine.

Nectarines are smaller and smooth skinned golden yellow with large blushes of red. There are more than 100 varieties of nectarine, in freestone and clingstone varieties. In freestone types the flesh separates from the 'pit' easily, while clingstone types cling to the 'pit.' Nectarines are more delicate than peaches and bruise very easily.

Nectarines are a good source of vitamin C and low in calories with no sodium, no fat or cholesterol. Nectarines provide twice the vitamin A, more vitamin C and much more potassium than peaches.

Nectarines can be used and prepared in the same ways as peaches, with no need to peel because they have no fuzz. Leave the skins on when making pies, cobblers and fresh fruit salads.

Look for nectarines that are fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure with your fingers. Avoid fruit that is green or hard. Ripen nectarines on your kitchen counter or in a paper bag overnight. The fruit can be refrigerated for up to five days. Nectarines can be eaten fresh as is, with sugar and cream or used as a substitute in any recipe that calls for peaches including ice cream, pies, jam, shortcakes and mixed fruit.

See also: Nectarine Food Facts

Recipe: Nectarine Oat Cupcakes

1-1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 fresh nectarines, chopped
1/2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup margarine
2/3 cup buttermilk
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In small bowl, sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over nectarines and toss until evenly coated; set aside.
Combine dry ingredients.
Cut in margarine until mixture resembles streusel; reserve 1/2 cup.
Add remaining ingredients.
Gently stir in nectarines.
Spoon batter into cupcake liners.
Sprinkle tops with reserved streusel mix.
Bake in 350 degree oven for 25 minutes.
Makes 12 cupcakes
Print just this recipe. (New window)

See also:
Old Fashioned Nectarine Crisp

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