Sunday, July 25, 2010

Summer Fruits in Season

Several delicious fruits are only in season during the summer months in the United States, and if you wait too long you may miss out. Here is a guide to some summer-only sweetness that you can enjoy with family and friends to help beat the heat.

Apples. While apples aren't typically thought of as a summer fruit, they are in season starting in July and last through October. One advantage to apples is that you can store them longer than you can some other summer fruits, such as berries. Use some to make an apple pie, eat them with peanut or hazelnut butter, or experiment with your own toppings.

Blackberries. These are a short-lived gem of summer. You can get blackberries starting in early May to mid-June. Make this delectable fruit last longer by canning your own blackberry jam.

Blueberries. Blueberries are ripe starting in June until mid-July. They are an iconic summer food and go great with all kinds of breakfast treats. Try them in your next batch of pancakes or waffles, or throw some in your yogurt or a smoothie.

Grapes. Grapes are available throughout July and August in the U.S. They can be added to several different recipes or tossed in a fruit salad. Many chicken salads include grapes to add some sweetness.

Melons. Watermelons, cantaloupe, honeydew - arguably the most iconic fruits of the summer season, enjoy any of these sweet treats on a hot summer afternoon.

Nectarines & Peaches. Nectarines are fresh between June and July. Their fuzzy relative is available between mid-May and early August. Different varieties of peaches are available throughout the summer, with most varieties only lasting a few weeks. Check your local grocery store to see what varieties are available in your area each week.

Plums. These tasty gems can be found between June and August. Look up a recipe or just take one with you for a bite-size snack.

Experiment with your favorite summer fruits today in a variety of recipes.