“An apple is an excellent thing – until you have tried a peach.” - George du Maurier (1834-1896)
Revered in China as a symbol of longevity and immortality, peaches are not only delicious - they offer a wide range of health benefits, rich as they are in antioxidant properties, potassium and cancer-fighting phenolic and carotenoid compounds.
Studies have also shown peaches can help maintain healthy skin and protect against ultraviolet radiation, as well as promote healthy eyesight and prevent certain eye diseases. The stone fruit has even been shown to ward off obesity-related diseases, like diabetes.
July/August is peak peach season, so now’s the time to grab ‘em. One of the sweetest treats of summer is a perfectly ripe peach, so look for fruit that has vibrant tones and colors, and no green. A gentle press to the tip, where the stem was, will tell you if it’s ready to eat – if it gives a bit, it’s ripe.
Juicy peaches need no accompaniment (just a napkin!), but if you’ve got some to spare, you might want to try this no-bake cobbler.
Ingredients:
Filling
- 4 medium organic peaches
Crust
- ¼ cup raw almonds soaked 6 hours, drained then rinsed
- ¼ cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 6 medjool dates, pitted and soaked for 5 minutes
- 1 tsp ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tsp grade B maple syrup (optional)
Blend almonds, walnuts and shredded coconut in a food processor until coarse; add dates and cinnamon and pulse blend until well mixed.
Slice peaches and place in a bowl. Sprinkle with crumble. Top with maple syrup if desired.