Even though August is slated as National Peach Month, peaches can be enjoyed year-round as can many fruits and vegetables. In season just means it is time to enjoy them at their peak ripeness. Depending on the variety, peaches are usually harvested from late June to late August, in Texas. So, whether you are picking from a tree in your backyard, or off the shelf at your favorite grocery store or farmers market, don’t be afraid to buy in bulk when you find a good sale. You can put the extras up by freezing or canning to enjoy year-round. You can call the Extension office to get recipes for preserving your harvest. Fruit usually goes on sale when it is in season, so buying at this time will save you money and you can freeze the rest for year-round enjoyment.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Path to the Plate contributors and specialists, Dr. Jenna Anding and Dr. Larry Stein, note that “Peaches are low in calories and fat and make an excellent addition to any salad or yogurt parfait. They add a sweet twist to salsas, sauces, jams, or dips. Not only are peaches delicious, but they are also very high in vitamins and minerals and contain many antioxidants.”
Peaches can be preserved by freezing them to use later in desserts, and smoothies, and even by adding them to your water for a refreshing taste and fewer calories than a sugary drink. Most fruits in general have natural sugars but are also an important source of Vitamin A, C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Don’t forget that you can eat the skins on most fruits and vegetables, which is where most of their vitamins are stored. Try eating your fruits versus drinking them to get more of the fiber and vitamins with less added sugars. It is important to read your labels to know what you are consuming. If you are watching your salts, sugars or fats, make sure to read the label so you know what you are consuming.
Even though fruit is a healthy choice, we still need to know the amount of fruit we are consuming and what the nutritional values are for a healthy diet.
According to Path to the Plate contributing specialists, Anding and Stein, they note “Depending on age, gender, and activity level, the amount of fruit recommended ranges from ½ a cup per day (for Toddlers) to 2 ½ cups for men. Individuals watching their carbohydrate intake may need less. All types of fruit count, including fresh, frozen, dried, and canned. If choosing canned fruit, select options that are packed in water or 100% fruit juice. Fruit canned in syrup might taste sweeter, but it will also add unnecessary calories and added sugars. Vitamins A and C support a healthy immune system while potassium helps promote a healthy blood pressure. Diets rich in fiber have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, can help control blood sugar levels, and may help with weight management.”
You can also try drying them or dehydrating them to add to nuts and granola for a healthy snack. Visit our Dinner Tonight website for more great recipes that include peaches and other enjoyable fruits, vegetables, and meats. visit dinnertonight. tamu.edu/.
For information on canning or freezing, please call the DeWitt County Extension Office at 361275-0816 or email dgoebel@ ag.tamu.edua
