The Best Stone Fruit of the Season

Nothing says summertime quite like biting into an apricot tart, freshly made cherry jam, or a ripe peach on a hot day. Stone fruit - whose name refers to the stone-like hard covering around a single large seed and fleshy exterior - are one the many reasons we Aussies love summer. From peaches to nectarines and apricots to cherries, we’ve got all the very best stone fruit in one place. Read more about the benefits of this beloved type of fruit and why it’s one of our favourites this time of year.

There’s a plethora of health benefits when it comes to these sweet, summer stone fruits. Peaches, apricots and nectarines are high in vitamins A and C, fibre and potassium.Vitamin C improves skin and promotes a healthy immune system, vitamin A is great for healthy vision, and fiber helps improve digestion. Also, a bowl of cherries is a rich source of antioxidants.

Peaches

These fuzzy-skinned fruits are sweet and juicy and come in many varieties. Classic uses for a ripe peaches include peach salsa, chutney, pies and tarts. High in potassium which is essential for muscle function. Two small peaches exceed the amount of potassium in one banana. Peaches also help support healthy, glowing skin and offer vision-supporting nutrients.

Nectarines

You can find white and yellow varieties of nectarines, just like peaches. They can be used in cakes, breads and tarts. For a savoury note, nectarines can be grilled and served with rocket and leafy greens for a refreshing summer salad. Nectarines are great sources of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and lutein – nutrients that offer tremendous benefits. They also enhance immunity, protect vision and help improve skin health.

Apricots

Both sweet and tart in flavour, apricots are commonly used in jams and pies, but also taste great combined with chicken and duck for a savoury dish. These golden nuggets are a great sound of vitamin C. Proved to help support heart health and eye function, apricots are also high in fibre which increases your metabolic rate and aids digestion. Commonly used in jams and pies, but also taste great combined with chicken and duck for a savoury dish.

Plums

You can find plums in a variety of colours like red, blue and purple and have a smooth skin. Their firm texture and vibrant colour stand up to baking temperatures, making them perfect for desserts. Plus are in high in antioxidants, protect our skin and promote good health. Rich in potassium and fibre too, for better muscle function, regularity and keeping cholesterol down.

Cherries

These may be the smallest member of the stone fruit family, but they pack a huge punch in both flavour and nutrition. Their sweet and tart taste make them perfect for pies, muffins, jams, frozen treats or to top your Christmas-wreath pavlova. Cherries are high in antioxidants (like plums) as well as fibre and potassium. Cherry juice, in particular, has been shown to help fight inflammation and treat muscle pain.