When we think of summer, what do we picture? Perhaps sandy beaches, clear, turquoise waters - and fruits! Stone fruit, or drupes as they are also known, are juicy, sweet and summery fruits characterized by their (somewhat) large pits in their middle. They are in season from spring to the end of summer, making them the perfect fruit to hydrate with during those extra warm days in the sun! Below are some of our favorites.
Apricots have a lovely golden-orange color and are smaller in size than the more famous nectarines or peaches. They have a rich, creamy consistency with a sweet, sunny flavor. Besides eating them as-is, they are well suited for making jam or drying. According to Healthline, apricots are packed with fibers, antioxidants and vitamins. Why not try some next time you visit your local farmer's market? Or, why not try to grow some yourself?
We all know them, we all (?) love them - the cherry! A versatile, sweet or sour fruit that tastes delicious in pies, juices, or simply as-is! Cherries start to grow in spring (surely we have all seen the lovely cherry blossom, or Sakura, photographs from Japan?), but they mature throughout the entire summer depending on the type. Sour cherries are great for desserts, while sweet cherries are well suited as a late-night snack due to their higher content of the sleep-hormone melatonin.
What's a summer without some fresh, tropical mango? This sweet, juicy
fruit goes well sliced up on a plate, or in salads, poké bowls and
smoothies. Did you know that Andalusia, Spain is one of the
only places in Europe where mangoes can be grown? This
is thanks to its coastal subtropical climate.
Tip! Do you find mangoes hard to peel? Simply take a ripe mango and a
large drinking glass. Cut the mango in half (or thirds), and place the
bottom edge of it (where the peel meets the fruit) at the rim of the
glass. Gently push down and voilá - peeled mango perfection!
Now you're probably thinking - huh? Olives? Well, yes! Despite being
savory, olives are actually a fruit! And what feels more luxurious than
eating savory, lovely olives from a charcuterie board? Even if you're
not feeling too fancy, olives are a staple in the summer kitchen. From
salads to homemade pizza, they can add the perfect zing to many
dishes.
Olives grow plenty around the Mediterranean, in countries such as
Greece, Italy and Palestine. In fact, olives have a big cultural
significance in several regions. In Greece, the olive has symbolized
rich food and cultural traditions since ancient times. In Palestine, it
is a symbol of resilience, health and community.