As summer arrives in South Africa, longer days and warmer evenings create the perfect opportunity to enjoy meals outdoors with family and friends.
Also see: How to turn overripe fruit into tasty treats
Adding to the excitement is the arrival of the season’s first peaches, nectarines and plums.
Colourful, fragrant and naturally sweet, these locally grown fruits bring a taste of summer to the table. Whether enjoyed on their own or incorporated into simple meals, stone fruit offers plenty of delicious ways to celebrate the season.
Celebrate the arrival of stone fruit season
According to Wilechia van der Westhuizen, spokesperson for Juicy Delicious, the beginning of summer is an opportunity to appreciate South Africa’s locally grown stone fruit.
She says freshly harvested peaches, nectarines and plums are available in stores from the start of the season, offering flavour and versatility.
Wilechia encourages consumers to keep things simple when preparing stone fruit, allowing the natural taste of the fruit to take centre stage.
Ripe peaches, for example, can be paired with creamy cheese, honey and fresh herbs for an easy dessert or snack. They can also complement savoury dishes, including grilled seafood and fresh salads.
Also see: 5 High-carb fruits you can eat without the sugar crash
7 Simple ways to enjoy stone fruit
Juicy Delicious has shared seven easy ideas for incorporating peaches, nectarines and plums into summer meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
1. Cheesy peach and ham kebabs
These sweet and savoury kebabs are ideal for outdoor lunches, picnics, lunchboxes and quick snacks. They are simple to prepare and combine fruit with delicious savoury flavours.
2. Prawn and nectarine Vietnamese spring rolls
Packed with crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, juicy nectarines and tiger prawns, these spring rolls offer a light, refreshing meal.
3. Peach and parmesan summer salad
Combining sweet peaches with salty Parmesan and peppery salad leaves, this salad makes a delicious addition to a poolside lunch or braai.
4. Honey, lemon and thyme stone fruit salad
This refreshing combination brings together simple ingredients to create a light side dish suitable for warm-weather meals.
5. Sheet pan cottage cheese pancake and summer fruit slaw
For a relaxed summer brunch, top a cottage cheese tray pancake with sliced peaches and nectarines tossed in lime juice and honey.
6. Nacho and stone fruit dip platter
A combination of whipped feta with nectarines and guacamole with peaches makes this platter a great option for parties, game nights, braais and picnics.
7. Stone fruit grazing board with pickled plums, cheese and cold meats
Layer fresh stone fruit, pickled plums, cheeses and cold meats for an attractive sharing platter that is easy to prepare.
A delicious addition to a healthy lifestyle
Beyond their flavour, peaches, nectarines and plums can also contribute to a balanced diet. Their naturally high water content helps support hydration during warmer days, while their vitamins and fibre offer nutritional benefits.
Stone fruit also pairs well with vegetables, herbs, cheeses and protein-rich foods, making it easy to include in different meals throughout the day.
Wilechia encourages South Africans to make the most of the season by choosing fresh, ripe, locally grown fruit and keeping meal preparation uncomplicated.
With so many ways to enjoy them, peaches, nectarines and plums are set to bring colour, freshness and flavour to summer tables across the country.
