Get Your Summer C with California Peaches, Plums and Nectarines

(ARA) - We all know that fruit is good for you, but did you know that California peaches, plums and nectarines are good sources of vitamin C?

With produce aisles across the country bursting with the summer's bounty of stone fruit, biting into a fresh California peach, plum or nectarine is a delicious way to get your Summer C.

Vitamin C is essential for healthy teeth and gums, aids in the absorption of iron and helps maintain connective tissue health which is important for defending against infection. Peaches and nectarines provide 15 percent of the recommended Daily Value (DV) of vitamin C, and plums provide 10 percent of the recommended DV of vitamin C.

Looking for ways to add more nutrients to your family's summer eating routine?

"Find clever ways to add seasonal veggies and fruits, such as California peaches, plums and nectarines, into every part of your meal," says Jackie Newgent, registered dietitian. "You'll be boosting vitamin C and other antioxidants, while adding flavor and flair."

Adding more fruit to your diet can be done in so many different, delicious ways. From appetizers to desserts, peaches, plums and nectarines can jump right into some of your favorite dishes and add nutritious flavor. Newgent suggests whipping up a fresh salsa with diced juicy California peaches or tossing slices of fresh California plums into a savory summer salad.

Grilling fruit is also a hot, and healthy, trend. Try topping grilled California nectarine halves with low-fat frozen yogurt for a tasty treat. "By incorporating fruits, you can delight in your desserts while getting more nutritional bang for your calorie buck," adds Newgent.

Don't forget that drinking your fruit counts, too. Try this simply satisfying Peach Pie Smoothie, a tasty twist on a classic that is a wholesome treat any time of day.

Peach Pie Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes

2 fresh California peaches, pitted and sliced
1 cup low-fat vanilla frozen yogurt
1/4 cup low-fat milk
2 teaspoons honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
2 vanilla wafer cookies, crumbled

Puree all ingredients except cookies in a blender until smooth. Pour into two chilled glasses and top with cookie crumbles.

Makes two servings

For more recipes featuring California peaches, plums and nectarines and nutritional information, visit www.eatcaliforniafruit.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent