You know summer is almost here when you start seeing stone fruit again at the Chico Certified Farmer’s Market. Peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, and pluots can be found all around. Savor these sweet summer sensations while they last!

What is a Stone Fruit?

Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a type of fruit with a large, hard pit or “stone” inside. This pit encases the seed of the fruit. The outer flesh is typically juicy and edible, while the pit is inedible and hard. There are a large variety of stone fruits, and you can find all of the following at the market:

• Apricots
• Cherries
• White Nectarines
• Yellow Nectarines
• White Peaches
• Yellow Peaches
• Plums
• Pluots
• And more!

These fruits are in season during the late spring and summer months, making them a popular choice for fresh eating, baking, and preserving during this time. Stone fruits are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and their rich nutritional value.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Stone fruits are a delightful addition to your summer diet. They are not only juicy and delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here are key things to know about the health benefits of stone fruit:

• They are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack option.
• They are rich in carbohydrates, primarily from natural sugars and fiber, aiding in digestion.
• They are excellent sources of vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin A, and contain important minerals like potassium and magnesium.
• Their high antioxidant content helps protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

You can enjoy these juicy sweet fruits guilt-free! Try one of our health-focused recipes below to start reaping the benefits of eating stone fruits.

Recipes

These recipes highlight the delicious flavors of stone fruits while keeping your meals healthy and nutritious. Enjoy!

Peach and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, sliced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, peaches, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.

 

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Grilled Apricot Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 ripe apricots, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.
4. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
5. During the last few minutes of grilling, add the apricot halves to the grill and cook until they are slightly charred.
6. Serve the grilled chicken with the apricots on top, garnished with fresh rosemary if desired.

 

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Nectarine and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
• 2 nectarines, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sliced nectarines, mint, goat cheese, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

 

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Plum and Spinach Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plums, pitted and chopped
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

 

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Cherry Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup pitted and chopped cherries
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Sliced almonds for topping

Instructions:

1. In a mason jar or bowl, combine the oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, cherries, chia seeds, almond butter, and honey.
2. Stir well to combine, ensuring the oats are fully immersed in the liquid.
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
4. In the morning, give the oats a good stir and top with sliced almonds before serving.