The Best Peach Recipes to Make This Summer - California Grown (2024)

Welcome to the golden days of summer – the air sweet with the scent of ripening peaches. From May to October, California peaches are at their prime, beckoning you to savor their juicy perfection. If you’ve ever bitten into a perfectly ripe peach, you know the bliss it brings. So, let’s take a deep dive and discover all things peaches, from selecting and storing to the best peach recipes to make this summer.

Let’s Savor the Sweetness of CA GROWN Peaches

During peak season, peaches are more than just a stone fruit; they’re an experience. There’s something special about biting into a fresh, ripe peach with juice running down your chin or that first bite of your favorite peach recipes that brings us all back to some of our fondest summer memories.

When Are Peaches in Season in California?

California’s peach season runs from May through October, a glorious span when local fruit stands overflow with this iconic stone fruit. This peak season is when peaches are at their juiciest, sweetest, and most flavorful. Whether you’re picking them up at a local fruit stand, a farmers’ market, or your favorite grocery store, now’s the perfect time to indulge in the best peaches the Golden State has to offer.

Types of Peaches

Peaches come in various types, each with its unique flavor and texture:

• Freestone Peaches: These peaches are ideal for eating fresh because the pit easily separates from the flesh. They are juicy and sweet, making them perfect for your favorite peach recipes.
• Clingstone Peaches: These are typically used for canning and processing. The flesh clings to the pit, hence the name, and they tend to be a bit firmer.
• Donut Peaches: Also known as Saturn peaches, these are flat and have a sweet, almond-like flavor. They’re a fun addition to summer desserts and salads or eaten as fresh fruit.

How to Shop for and Select the Best CA GROWN Peaches

The best peach recipes begin with selecting the right peaches. Navigating the peach selection process can feel a bit like a treasure hunt, but use these tips and you’ll be sure to find the gems:

1. Color is Key: Look for a deep golden color without any green undertones. While the red blush can be pretty, it’s the golden hue that indicates ripeness.
2. Feel the Peach: A gentle squeeze should yield slightly to pressure. Too hard? They need more time. Too soft? They’re probably overripe.
3. Smell the Aroma: Trust your nose – a ripe peach will have a sweet, fragrant smell.

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Why Choose California Grown?

California is a powerhouse when it comes to growing peaches – as well as the over 400 commodities produced in the Golden State. The state’s diverse climate and rich soil make it an ideal place for cultivating high-quality produce. When you choose CA GROWN, you’re not just getting delicious fruit, you’re supporting local farmers and farmworkers, farming families, and sustainable farming practices.

Where to Shop for CA GROWN Peaches

Finding CA GROWN peaches is easy if you know what to look for. When shopping, keep an eye out for the CA GROWN blue license plate logo, which signifies the peaches were grown in California. Additionally, check the UPC label on the fruit – it often indicates the origin. Shopping at local California farmers’ markets and fruit stands is another great way to ensure you’re getting fresh peaches grown in California.

Supporting Local Farmers

By choosing CA GROWN peaches, you’re supporting the hardworking farmers who dedicate their lives to bringing the freshest produce to your table. These farmers employ sustainable practices that protect the land for years to come, while ensuring the highest quality fruit. Learn more about one California peach farmer by clicking here.

When shopping, look for the CA GROWN blue license plate logo or check the UPC label on the fruit to ensure you are buying peaches from the Golden State.

How to Store Peaches

Once you choose your California peaches, proper storage is essential so you can enjoy them at their best:

• Ripening on the Counter: If your peaches are a bit firm, leave them out at room temperature for a couple of days.
• Refrigeration: Once ripe, move them to the fridge to extend their freshness. They should last about a week.
• Freezing: For those planning ahead, freezing peach slices is a great option. Peel, slice, and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.

Can You Eat the Fuzzy Skin of a Peach?

Absolutely! The fuzzy skin of a peach is edible and packed with nutrients. However, you can easily remove the skin if you prefer a smoother texture or need peeled peaches for a recipe.

How to Peel a Peach

Peeling peaches is straightforward with the blanching method:

1. Blanch: Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare an ice bath. Cut a small “X” on the bottom of each peach.
2. Boil: Submerge the peaches in the boiling water for about 30 seconds.
3. Cool: Transfer the peaches immediately to the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
4. Peel: Once cooled, the skin should slip off easily with your fingers or a paring knife.

How to Remove a Peach Pit

Removing the pit from a peach can be simple if you know the right technique:

1. Slice Around the Pit: Using a sharp knife, cut the peach in half, slicing all the way around the pit.
2. Twist to Separate: Hold each half of the peach and twist them in opposite directions to separate the halves.
3. Remove the Pit: If you’re working with a freestone peach, the pit should come out easily with a little help from your fingers or a spoon.

A Symphony of Aroma and Flavor

CA GROWN peaches are a truly a symphony – each bite bursting with flavor and aroma that deliver a burst of summer sweetness. Here’s what you can expect:

• Sweetness: At the peak of ripeness, peaches are incredibly sweet, making them perfect for enjoying fresh or in desserts. The natural sugars in peaches intensify with the warmth of the sun during growth, ripening into a succulent, honey-like taste.
• Juiciness: A ripe peach is bursting with juice, a characteristic that makes them irresistible. The juiciness of a peach is one of its most endearing qualities, providing a refreshing burst with every bite.
• Subtle Tartness: While predominantly sweet, peaches also have a subtle tartness that balances the flavor. This slight acidity enhances the overall taste, which makes peaches versatile for both sweet and savory dishes.
• Aromatic: The fragrance of a ripe peach is intoxicating. The aroma is floral and fruity, signaling the fruit’s readiness to be devoured.

Delicious Ways to Celebrate Peach Season in Your Home

Peaches are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways that celebrate their flavor. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Peach Recipes: From peach salads to peach crumble, fresh peach recipes showcase the best part of summer’s bounty. The natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh ripe peaches make them a favorite in any dish.
• Summer Dessert: A classic summer dessert like a peach crumble recipe or succulent peaches with a scoop of ice cream is perfect for special occasions or a casual family dinner. The combination of warm fruit and cold vanilla ice cream is simply irresistible.
• Peach Crisp Recipe: For those who love a good crunch, a peach crumble recipe with a crisp topping made from oats, butter, and brown sugar is a must-try. The sweet fruit filling paired with the crisp topping creates a delightful contrast.
• Savory Peach Dishes: Peaches can also be used in savory dishes like peach salsa, grilled peach salads, and even as a topping for pork chops. The sweet and tangy flavors complement savory ingredients perfectly.
• Frozen Peaches: Don’t let the winter months stop you from enjoying peaches. Frozen peaches can be used in smoothies, baking, and even in a refreshing White Wine Sangria with Fresh Fruit.
• Canned Peaches: Canned peaches are a great option when fresh peaches are out of season. They can be used in everything from pies to cobblers, ensuring you get that sweet peach flavor year-round.
• Peach Butter and Peach Jam: Preserve the taste of summer by making peach butter or peach jam. Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a glaze for meats.

The Best Part of Peach Season

The best part of peach season is the endless possibilities for enjoying juicy California peaches. Whether you’re whipping up an easy dessert, adding them to your favorite recipes, or simply eating them fresh, peaches are the ultimate summer treat.

We’d love to see how you celebrate peach season. Whether it’s a classic peach cobbler or a new peach-inspired dish, share your creations with us!

Embrace this time of year with open arms and a hungry heart.

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