SHOPPING & COOKING GUIDES

Peach Buyer's Guide

Peach

This luscious fruit brings a taste of summer to the table.

EatingWell July/August 2008

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Besides amazing flavor, peaches are packed with natural goodness including vitamins A, C and potassium. They’re also a good source of antioxidants, beta carotene (which gives them their deep yellow color) and flavonoids, which may help slow the aging process and reduce the risk of some types of cancer and heart disease. Plus with only 60 calories and plenty of fiber, they are a calorie-counter’s dream.

How to pick a peach: Use your nose! Choose peaches with a “peachy” scent, slightly sweet and flowery. Ripe peaches will give a little when gently pressed. The red or blush color on the skin is a characteristic of variety, not ripeness. Avoid any that are overly green—they were picked too early and won’t ripen properly.

Don’t squeeze: Never squeeze peaches, as they will bruise. If they need ripening, set them in a single layer on the counter, not stacked, and allow to ripen for a day or so at room temperature. Once ripe, transfer them to the refrigerator and use within a week.

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