It’s August and I’m Feeling “Peachy”
August is National Peach Month and it’s fitting since these delicious fruits are in abundance right now. Sweet, juicy peaches typically come into season around late June and are available through late August-early September. Aside from their wonderful flavor, peaches are a beneficial addition to your diet. They are sodium free, cholesterol free and a good source of Vitamin C. Michael Marks, Your Produce Man, has some tips on how to select the perfect peach so that you don’t end up with one that’s overripe.
Traditionally, peaches are associated with baked goods such as peach pie, peach cobbler or peach dumplings. While these treats are delicious, they also contain ingredients that increase the fat and calorie content. Since peaches are naturally flavorful and sweet on their own, they don’t need a lot of extra sugar and fat. In fact, they are terrific to enjoy alone for snacking or sliced in a fruit salad. I did, however, pull a few interesting recipes using fresh, in-season peaches that are outside the typical bakery selections.
I’ll start with the savory end of the spectrum. Chipotle Peach Chicken Tacos combines fresh peaches with spicy flavors–a delicious combination. This recipe is also low in fat and calories as well, an extra bonus! Add some fresh veggies that are in season like zucchini, corn or tomatoes and you have a lovely summer dinner.
On the sweet side of things, instead of a bakery item, Homemade Peach Frozen Yogurt is a perfect summer treat! This recipe uses only a few simple ingredients–peaches, honey, lowfat, plain yogurt and lemon juice. Process in a blender or food processor and then freeze and you’ve got a delicious frozen dessert that’s low in calories and fat.
Stop by your local farmer’s market or grocery store this week and take advantage of in-season peaches before these tasty fruits are gone until next summer.
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