It is a glorious time of the year when the farm stands and grocery stores are brimming with delicious local ripe peaches. There is something pure summer about biting into a ripe peach’s soft skin and enjoying the sweet, satisfying taste as the juiciness runs down your chin, which is only available for a short time.
As good as that bite is, there are many ways to add that tantalizing taste to your summer menu beyond the usual peach pie and iced tea. The versatility of this fruit adds a burst of flavor to everything from appetizers to desserts.
5 easy recipes celebrating peaches for your summer entertaining:
- Grilled Peach Salad: Toss grilled peach slices with mixed greens, goat cheese, candied pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and vibrant summer salad.
- Peach Salsa: Dice peaches, red onions, cilantro, and jalapenos, then mix them with lime juice and a pinch of salt for a delightful and tangy salsa. I like to serve this over grilled chicken breast, but you could easily serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish.
- Peach Caprese: Create a twist on the classic Caprese salad by alternating peach slices, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory flavor combination. I love the traditional caprese with tomatoes, but this one is ooh-la-la!
- Peaches are the perfect addition to your favorite BBQ sauce. It adds a nice fruity kick and sweetness to your grilled meats. If you want to amp it up, try adding a little bourbon.
- Grilled Peach Dessert. This family favorite is so simple. Grill peach halves until caramelized and tender. Then serve over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or, my favorite, a slice of pound cake (the one in the freezer section in a foil tray) which you butter and grill till warm and showing grill marks. Then top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey and whip cream.
Whether you add them to your cooking or enjoy eating them in their purest form, remember to choose ripe and flavorful peaches to get the best taste. Look for firm and slightly soft fruit that is free of bruises. Pay attention to color. You will want a creamy or golden undertone called “ground color.”
Do you have any tasty recipes you would like to share using peaches? Or do you have a favorite place to get them? Please be a peach and share your culinary secrets in the comments.
If you want to get them straight from the orchard, visit Pick Your Own for a list of places around Ohio where you can pick just the perfect peach.
