Peaches
The popular red blush on peaches may not always be a true sign of maturity. Choose peaches that have a yellow or creamy background, and that are fragrant, unblemished and not too hard. Because fresh peaches are highly perishable, don't buy more than you plan to use. Even when unripe, peaches spoil easily. Peaches are available all year.
Wash peaches carefully in cool water before using. Peaches will peel more easily if blanched for a minute in boiling water, then plunged into cold water for a minute to cool. Use peaches in pasta salad or grill peach halves with blueberries and brown sugar for dessert. Blend into frozen daiquiris, smoothies or shakes. Top with frozen yogurt or angel food cake.
Peaches should be sprinkled with lemon or lime juice after cutting to prevent discoloration.
To ripen peaches, store in a brown bag at room temperature. Ripe peaches can be stored in the crisper bin of your refrigerator for up to five days.
Nutritional Facts:
- Fat-free
- Saturated fat-free
- Sodium-free
- Cholesterol-free
- High in vitamin A
- A good source of vitamin C
Cooking tip: Cook with sugar (1 pound of fruit per 2 cups sugar) on the stove until thickened for a delicious jam.
See also: Peach, Pear, Persimmon and Pineapple Food Facts
Peeling Peaches Cooking Tip
