The days are longer, and the weather is warmer; it’s time to fire up the grill. Family and friends gathered together, kids splashing in the water, and laughter in the air signal summer is here. Here are some of the best summer fruit flavors make meals memorable.

RASPBERRY

One cheerful berry loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, raspberries are adaptable.

Uh Oh… Raspberries mushed by the time you get home? No worries! Strain, sweeten, and puree for a delicious topping on a light angel food cake or scoop of ice cream.

PEACH

What is summer without the perfection of peach? Yummy in so many ways. Eat fresh on the way home from the farmer’s market or cook into homemade cobbler or pie. Are you looking for an easier prep time than a cobbler, but fancier than merely slicing? Throw peaches on the grill for a delish dessert addition to any summer BBQ.

BLUEBERRIES

Did you know that blueberries are the only native summer fruit to America? Neat, right? They also are at their ripest in July and August. Toss a batch into the freezer for the perfect bite-size pop of frozen flavor, or pair with strawberries aand whip cream for red, white, and blue patriotic prize dessert.  A tip when picking fresh blueberries: look for an indigo blue color with silvery frost.

WATERMELON

Can any sunny day adventures be complete without this summer social fruit? Bright and juicy, watermelons are versatile and built for a crowd. You can carve out a decorative, natural bowl for the food table, create a hydrating slushy, or dress it up in a salad paired with red onions and feta cheese to name a few. The best part of watermelon? You can just cut it into cubes and serve it chilled. A simple and sweet compliment to any grilled meal!

KEY LIME

Take a tropical vacation with the tang of citrus key lime flavor. Key limes are smaller but bring a zestier twist.  Pies are not the only way to use key limes. They can be used in salad dressings, drinks, guacamole or as a garnish to name a few.

STRAWBERRIES

Dressed up in chocolate or layered on top of whip cream, strawberries are everywhere you want to be this summer.  Want to upgrade your water? Throw some basil and strawberries together for a spa-worthy water beverage that is healthy aand hydrating.

COMBINATION

Summer is the best for in-season fruits, and with so many to choose from you don’t have to pick just one! Combine them!  Bring together blackberries, blueberries, and raspberry for depth of berry flavor in any pie pastry. Grab some kabob sticks and layer fruits for a healthy summer snack. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make a share-worthy signature dish.

Summer is full of fun and so much to do!  Don’t have the time to get a fruity dessert together? Call us at 910-346-2437, and we’ll help make your summer delicious and fresh.