Peaches

About: "An apple is an excellent thing- until you have tried a peach."- George du Maurier.

The delectable, juicy peach is a member of the rose family and is a cousin to apricots, cherries and plums. There are two categories of peaches, freestone and clingstone. Freestone is easily separated from the pit of the fruit, while clingstone varieties leave flesh attached to the pit. Clingstone varieties are rare in retail markets these days. Peaches pair well with all kinds of herbs and dishes and can be eaten raw, cooked, roasted or grilled. 

Nutritional Information: Peaches are a good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Niacin and Potassium, and a very good source of Vitamin C.

Storage: Store at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, place in a plastic bag and refrigerate. 

Tips: To hasten ripening, place in a paper bag and keep at room temperature. 

QuickFix: Combine oats, sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Mix together and add butter. Arrange sliced peaches in a baking dish. Cover with 1/2 to 1 cup sugar (your choice). Sprinkle crumb mixture evenly over fruit. Bake the crisp uncovered in a pre-heated 350°F oven for 40 minutes or until fruit is tender. 

 Recipes: Grilled Peaches, Vanilla-Roasted Peaches with Raspberries, Grilled Chicken with Peaches, Peaches, Basil and Red Onion Salad