Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are among summer’s most celebrated harvests. Named for the single hard pit or “stone” inside, these juicy, fragrant fruits capture the essence of warm weather with their vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors. In this guide inspired by Chef Jahed’s “Sweet Stones: A Summer Fruit Atlas,” we explore some of the most beloved stone fruits of the season — from classic peaches to hybrid varieties like pluots and apriums. Each one offers unique taste profiles, nutritional benefits, and culinary versatility that make them essential to summer eating.
Peach
Peaches are perhaps the most iconic summer fruit, celebrated for their fuzzy skin, golden flesh, and intoxicating aroma. Originating from China, peaches are now cultivated worldwide and come in clingstone or freestone varieties. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, promoting healthy skin and digestion. Peaches shine in both savory and sweet dishes, from grilled peach salads and salsas to cobblers and pies.
Cherries
Cherries are small, glossy, and packed with flavor, ranging from sweet to tart depending on the variety. These nutrient-dense fruits are high in anthocyanins, antioxidants known to reduce inflammation and improve sleep quality. Fresh cherries make an excellent snack, but they’re equally delicious in desserts, jams, or savory sauces paired with duck or pork.
Apricots
Apricots offer a delicate sweetness with just a hint of tang. Their velvety skin and golden-orange hue signal their high beta-carotene content, which supports eye and skin health. Apricots are delicious eaten fresh, dried, or used in preserves and baked goods. They’re also a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, often paired with nuts and grains.
Pluots
Pluots are a hybrid between plums and apricots, combining the juiciness of plums with the floral sweetness of apricots. Their smooth skin and vibrant colors make them visually appealing, while their balanced flavor makes them ideal for snacking, salads, or even grilling. Pluots are packed with vitamin C and potassium, supporting immune and heart health.
White Nectarines
White nectarines are known for their smooth skin and delicate, floral flavor that’s sweeter and less acidic than yellow nectarines. Their flesh is often crisp yet juicy, making them excellent for fresh eating. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, white nectarines help combat oxidative stress while adding elegance to fruit platters and desserts.
Apriums
Apriums, another apricot-plum hybrid, lean more toward the apricot side in flavor and texture. They have velvety skin and firm, honey-sweet flesh with a hint of tartness. These fruits are an excellent source of vitamins A and E, both crucial for immune function and skin health. Apriums are wonderful eaten fresh or baked into pastries and crisps.
Plums
Plums vary widely in color, from deep purple to yellow-green, each with a unique balance of tart and sweet. Their juicy flesh and smooth skin make them refreshing summer snacks. Nutritionally, plums are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamin K. Dried plums, or prunes, are known for supporting digestive health and maintaining bone strength.
Yellow Nectarines
Yellow nectarines share the same smooth exterior as white nectarines but offer a more pronounced tartness that balances their sweetness. They’re ideal for grilling, roasting, or baking, where their acidity enhances depth of flavor. Like other stone fruits, yellow nectarines are nutrient-dense, supporting hydration and vitality during the hot summer months.
Donut Peaches
Donut peaches, also called Saturn peaches, stand out for their flattened, disc-like shape and incredibly sweet, low-acid flavor. Their tender flesh and minimal fuzz make them easy to enjoy fresh. These peaches are high in vitamin C and dietary fiber, making them both refreshing and nutritious. Their novelty shape also makes them a favorite for fruit displays and summer picnics.
Stone fruits are more than just seasonal delights — they’re nutritional powerhouses that celebrate the abundance of summer. Whether eaten raw, grilled, baked, or blended into smoothies, these fruits deliver a perfect mix of sweetness, juiciness, and health benefits. Embracing the diversity of peaches, nectarines, plums, and their hybrids allows you to experience the full spectrum of summer’s natural flavor.