What's in Season? Stone Fruit
Jul 02, 2014 12:35PM ● By Style
SELECTION AND STORAGE
When shopping for stone fruit, keep in mind that this type of fruit tends to ripen shortly after it’s been picked. It’s best to look for fruit that is a bit firm (if you’re not planning to eat it right away). The perfect piece of stone fruit should be a bit tender when touched lightly. If, by chance, you haven’t devoured this fruit once it’s ripened, most stone fruit can be stored in the refrigerator for at least a few days. No matter where you decide to keep it, avoid plastic bags to eliminate conditions that may cause mold. The most important advice to note about stone fruit is that you should enjoy all varieties as much as possible during the limited time it’s in season.DID YOU KNOW?
This delicious fruit can be enjoyed in Placer County from late spring through early fall. Even though stone fruits vary in size, texture and taste, most of them can be interchanged in many recipes. Once cooked, stone fruit is an excellent accompaniment to almost any dish.— Susan Belknap
For details on where to buy Placer County farm-fresh produce, wine, meat and local products, visit placergrown.org.
Barbecued Chicken with Grilled Nectarines
Recipe by PlacerGROWN Chef Courtney McDonald
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 whole farmers’ market chickens, each cut into eight pieces with the bone remaining
- 2 cups Snow’s Citrus Court Mandarin Orange Grill Sauce
- 6 yellow or white firm-ripe nectarines
- 3 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tbsp. honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
HOW TO PAIR WITH WINE
This barbecued chicken with grilled nectarines recipe by Foothill Farmers Market Association/PlacerGROWN Chef, Courtney McDonald is the ideal summer meal, with the freshness of ripe stone fruit complementing moist grilled chicken. Placer County Rosé wines are the ultimate pairing; the fruity characteristics these wines possess couple perfectly with the lush flavors of the nectarines. The Sangiovese Rosé from Lone Buffalo Vineyards, Syrah Rosé from Secret Ravine Vineyard and Winery, and the Pinot Noir Rosé from Wise Villa Winery, all feature luscious flavors of strawberry with hints of cherry and spice. Full flavored and slightly acidic with crisp finishes, makes them a great option for pairing with this fabulous summer dish.