Plum and almond galette. Photo / Babiche Martens
We’re not ready to say goodbye to summer just yet. And as long as luscious stonefruit are appearing on supermarket shelves, we’ll gladly tuck in and pretend balmy days are here to stay.
Cherries, sadly, are all but gone, and apricots are the next to make an exit so nab
these if you see them. However, plums should still be loitering for a bit, and peaches and nectarines should be around for a few more weeks. So let’s tuck in.
Plums, peaches and nectarines all belong to the same genus, Prunus. Plums have their own unique tartness, while peaches and nectarines are similar in many ways with the distinction lying in their skin texture; peaches boast a fuzzy skin, nectarines are smooth and glossy — the variance arising due to a genetic mutation.
Nutritionally, all these fruits pack a punch. With low calorie counts and high water content, they serve as a hydrating and satisfying snack. Also, they are rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants. Furthermore, peaches, nectarines, and plums provide dietary fibre, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
Delving deeper into their nutritional profiles, each stonefruit offers unique benefits. Nectarines typically contain higher levels of vitamin A and potassium, while peaches tend to be slightly higher in vitamin C. Plums are renowned for their high content of antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which contribute to their vibrant colours and potential health benefits.
