Sweeten Your Day with the Nectar of the Gods

Even though we tend to think of nectarines as summer fruits, there’s a bounty of them at the supermarket right now. I love biting into delicious, juicy nectarines. And I eat them skin and all, since I don’t have to put up with that annoying fuzz sported by their peachy cousins.

Now here’s the good news: Just like peaches, cantaloupe, carrots, and other orange-colored fruits and veggies, nectarines are packed with carotenoids that can turn into vitamin A in your body. So while the juice of that delicious nectarine is dripping off your chin, your body will make enough vitamin A to bolster your skin and mucous membranes so they can defend against invading viruses and bacteria, and boost your immune system.

Here’s a handful of ways to make your life a little sweeter:

·        Finely chop a nectarine and toss the pieces into fiery salsa for a sweet-hot sensation.

·        Slice a nectarine, then use the fruit to top frozen yogurt. Drizzle the whole thing with dark chocolate syrup for a perfect dessert.

·        Finely chop ripe nectarines, mix them with some cinnamon, and pour the topping over pancakes or waffles instead of the usual syrup.

·        Consider grilling your nectarines. If it’s too cold to fire up the grill right now, pull out a ridged grilling pan, and roast the juicy beauties on your stove top.

Here’s one of my favorite recipes for Roasted Nectarines with Fresh Fruit Salsa:

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of sliced strawberries with ½ cup each of blueberries and raspberries, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Set aside. Spray the pan with non-stick cooking spray (or, if you’re using an outdoor grill, spray the cut sides of the nectarines). Place the nectarine halves on the hot grill pan or grate, and roast them, turning once, for 6 minutes, until lightly charred. Place each roasted nectarine in a bowl, and spoon the fresh fruit salsa on top.