Peach season has officially arrived in New Hampshire! I’m thrilled that our little peach tree has finally producing a nice basket full to enjoy, and we’ll be sure to hit the farm stands when that runs out. (Shannon is particularly fond of juicy Elwood Orchards<\/a> peaches, which we can fortunately usually get at our local LaValley<\/a> farm stand.)\u00a0 My household simply can\u2019t get enough of them. These sweet treats are amazing fresh, of course, which is how we mostly eat them. However, peaches are also phenomenal grilled as a dessert (plain or served with ice cream), side dish, or salad topper. Also try dehydrating them for a post-season snack, freezing them (sliced or whole) for future use, and making jam. My mother\u2019s homemade peach jam is a seasonal favorite atop vanilla ice cream, in plain yogurt, over cake, and on toast.<\/p>\n Peaches are a redeeming treat. Besides being sweet and tasty, research shows that peaches and other stone fruits (plums, nectarines) may fight obesity-related diabetes, inflammation, and heart disease. What makes them so special?\u00a0 A synergistic blend of four types of phenolic groups \u2013 anthocyanins, clorogenic acids, quercetin derivatives, and catechins \u2013 work simultaneously in different types of cells for maximum impact. This is even better if you serve up peaches in a form that doesn\u2019t contain added sugar (sorry, Mom). Yet more proof that the diversity of antioxidants, nutrients, and phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables provides maximum impact for your health\u2026 and that good health can be delicious.<\/p>\n Here are some yummy recipes we enjoy!<\/p>\n I learned from a fellow health educator that\u2019s great for potlucks and meals this time of year. Almost all the ingredients are available from local sources, too!<\/p>\n Layer on salad plates or one large salad bowl:<\/p>\n To make dressing, mix together:<\/p>\n Drizzle dressing over salad. Enjoy!<\/p>\nPeach & Blue Cheese Salad with Maple-Lemon Dressing<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
\n
Grilled Peach & Shrimp Salad<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Peach Popsicles<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n