Anatomy of a Peach
There are hundreds of peach varieties that provide us with delicious, juicy choices from May to October. But peaches don’t just taste good, they also provide a good source of vitamin C and contain other important nutrients, including potassium, fiber and vitamin A. A peach contains 2 grams of fiber and 230 milligrams of potassium. This juicy fruit also has 6% (300 IU) of the daily value of vitamin A, is sodium free, and contains no fat. Peaches are definitely a great choice as part of a healthy lifestyle.
So that’s the nutritional anatomy of a peach … what about the physical anatomy? We all realize peaches have stems and pits, but did you know they have cheeks? And shoulders? The cheeks are the sides of the fruit, which sometimes “blush” (turn red when exposed to sunlight) on 10-100% of the fruit’s surface (depending on variety).The shoulders bulge around the stem at the top of the fruit and become full and rounded as the fruit matures.
But enough about anatomy. Let’s eat (or drink) some peaches and enjoy their many different complexions. Have you ever tried cooking with this official taste of summer? Try this …
So that’s the nutritional anatomy of a peach … what about the physical anatomy? We all realize peaches have stems and pits, but did you know they have cheeks? And shoulders? The cheeks are the sides of the fruit, which sometimes “blush” (turn red when exposed to sunlight) on 10-100% of the fruit’s surface (depending on variety).The shoulders bulge around the stem at the top of the fruit and become full and rounded as the fruit matures.
But enough about anatomy. Let’s eat (or drink) some peaches and enjoy their many different complexions. Have you ever tried cooking with this official taste of summer? Try this …
When the BBQ grill is fired up, cook peach halves on a well-oiled grill until marked with grill lines and tender. Brush with molasses, remove from grill, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
How about drinking some peaches? Here’s how …
Puree several peaches and add to chilled white wine (club soda works too!) along with a “dash” of peach brandy (or lemon juice), and stir in a touch of sugar. Garnish with mint and you’ll be thinking very cool thoughts!
Other Creative Ways to Enjoy Peaches
- Fruit … Instead of Spread. Top toast or a bagel with cream cheese and peaches instead of jam.
- Salad Sweetness. Sliced peaches are a flavorful addition to a green salad. Add a fruity vinaigrette.
- Spicy Salsa. Use chopped peaches to make a lively salsa – as mild or hot as you like.
- Dunk Them.
Sprinkle cinnamon into vanilla yogurt or cream cheese and enjoy with peach slices. - Smoothies & Sodas. Peaches make a great addition to a fruit smoothie. Or combine peach puree with sparkling water for a natural, nutritious alternative to store-bought soda.
- Sweet Tea. Add
thin peach slices to iced tea for a natural light, fruity flavor.
"Life is better than death, I believe, if only because it is less boring, and because it has fresh peaches in it."
– Alice Walker
Nutrition Experts
Save Mart
Fruit & Vegetable Recipes
Video Center: Selection, Storage, and Preparation of Fruits & Vegetables
