{"id":84192,"date":"2021-09-06T15:28:32","date_gmt":"2021-09-06T19:28:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.freshdirect.com\/blog\/?p=84192"},"modified":"2026-04-15T12:50:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T16:50:14","slug":"what-is-stone-fruit-top-10-types-of-stone-fruit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.freshdirect.com\/blog\/what-is-stone-fruit-top-10-types-of-stone-fruit\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Stone Fruit + Top 10 Types of Stone Fruit"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Stone fruits are a highlight among the bounty of summer produce, bursting with juicy flavors and vibrant colors that make our taste buds dance. <\/span>But what exactly is a stone fruit?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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If you’re picturing a rock-hard snack, think again!\u00a0<\/span>From the succulent sweetness of peaches to the tangy zing of plums, stone fruits offer a diverse array of flavors and textures that are perfect for everything from fresh snacking to baking into jammy sauces and desserts.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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What is Stone Fruit?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>

Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a category of fruits characterized by their fleshy exterior and a large, hard pit or “stone” inside. This stone protects the fruit’s seed, making it a unique feature among fruits.\u00a0<\/span>The term “stone fruit” encompasses a wide variety of fruits that share this common trait, each offering a burst of flavor and a wealth of nutrients.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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History and Origin of Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h3>

Stone fruits have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. <\/span>The cultivation of stone fruits began in ancient times, with peaches and plums being some of the earliest cultivated fruits. Archaeological evidence suggests that peaches were grown in China <\/span>as early as 8000 BCE<\/span><\/a>, while plums were cultivated in Europe and Asia.\u00a0<\/span>Over time, these fruits spread across the world thanks to trade routes and explorers. <\/span>Stone fruits have held significant cultural importance throughout history. In ancient China, <\/span>peaches were symbols of immortality<\/span><\/a> and were often featured in art and literature.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\"\"Characteristics of Stone Fruit<\/span><\/span><\/h3>

Stone fruits are known for their distinct characteristics:<\/span><\/p>

Pit<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> At the heart of every stone fruit is a hard, inedible pit that houses the seed. This stone is often surrounded by a thin, fibrous layer that separates it from the fruit’s flesh.<\/span><\/p>

Flesh<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> The flesh of stone fruit is typically juicy, tender, and rich in flavor. Depending on the type, it can range from sweet to tart.<\/span><\/p>

Skin<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> The skin of stone fruit varies in texture and color. It can be smooth and thin, like a nectarine, or fuzzy, like a peach. The color spectrum includes shades of yellow, red, purple, and green.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Nutritional Benefits of Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h3>

Stone fruits are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:<\/span><\/p>

High in vitamins and minerals<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> Stone fruits are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, boosting the immune system, and supporting heart health.<\/span><\/p>

Rich in antioxidants<\/b><\/span>:<\/span> These fruits are rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and anthocyanins, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.<\/span><\/p>

Low in calories and high in fiber<\/b><\/span>:<\/span> Stone fruits are low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making them a perfect snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The fiber content also aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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FreshDirect Partner: Family Tree Farms<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Three generations of the Jackson family make up this business that grows the most unique and flavorful fruits. Each of their varieties goes through a meticulous selection process and only makes the cut after extensive tastings from fruit test pilots and global breeding programs. Every summer at FreshDirect, we anticipate the arrival of Family Tree’s many gems because we know they\u2019ll reflect the Jacksons\u2019 expertise and dedication to cultivating the most perfect fruits.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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SHOP ON FRESHDIRECT<\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Top 10 Types of Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h2>

Stone fruits come in a delightful variety of flavors, textures, and colors \u2014 each type offers its own unique taste and culinary possibilities. <\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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\"\"Peaches<\/span><\/p>

Peaches<\/span><\/a> are the quintessential summer fruit, known for their sweet, juicy flesh and fuzzy skin.\u00a0<\/span>Some varieties have a pit that comes out clean (freestone), while others stick to the flesh (clingstone). Some popular types include the golden Elberta, the floral-scented white peach<\/a>, and the uniquely shaped <\/span>Donut peach<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>Bursting with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, peaches are a delicious way to support healthy skin, boost your immune system, and keep your digestion on track.<\/span><\/p>

You can bite into a fresh peach for a juicy summer snack, bake them into mouth-watering pies and cobblers, grill or pan sear them to serve with meats<\/a>, or preserve them in jars of homemade peach jam.
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Plums<\/span><\/h2>

Plums<\/span><\/a> are nature\u2019s candy, with a spectrum of flavors ranging from tart to sweet.\u00a0<\/span>These smooth-skinned beauties come in a rainbow of colors, from deep purple to <\/span>golden yellow<\/span><\/a>. European and Japanese plums are among the most beloved varieties, while the many hybrid and specialty cultivars<\/a> mean there’s always something new to discover.\u00a0<\/span>High in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, plums are great for supporting bone health, enhancing your immune function, and fighting off free radicals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Enjoy plums fresh for a quick, healthy snack, cook them into savory dishes for a sweet-tart twist, or dry them into prunes for a fiber-rich treat that\u2019s good for your gut!<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Apricots<\/span><\/h2>

Apricots<\/span><\/a> may be small, but they pack a punch with their golden-orange hue and smooth, velvety flesh.\u00a0<\/span>Blenheim and Moorpark are popular varieties that deliver on flavor and texture. Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, apricots are excellent for eye health, boosting your immune system, and aiding digestion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Savor apricots fresh for a juicy treat, dry them for a chewy snack on the go, or whip up some homemade apricot jam to spread on your morning toast.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\"\"Cherries<\/span><\/h2>

Cherries<\/span><\/a> are tiny bursts of flavor, coming in sweet and tart varieties.\u00a0<\/span>Sweet cherries like Bing and fruity white cherries like\u00a0<\/span>Rainier<\/span><\/a> are perfect for munching, while tart ones like Montmorency shine in baked goods.\u00a0<\/span>Packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and anti-inflammatory compounds, cherries are a powerhouse for reducing muscle soreness and improving sleep quality.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Snack on fresh cherries by the handful, bake them into luscious pies and tarts, or turn them into sweet preserves to enjoy year-round.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Nectarines<\/span><\/h2>

Nectarines<\/span><\/a> are like peaches\u2019 smooth-skinned cousins, offering a similar sweet and juicy experience. Like peaches, there are both<\/span>\u00a0freestone or clingstone types. Varieties like Arctic White, Fantasia, or Pearlicious white nectarine<\/a> are sure to please.\u00a0<\/span>High in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, nectarines are a tasty way to support healthy skin, boost your immune function, and aid digestion. <\/span><\/p>

Bite into a fresh nectarine for a refreshing snack, grill them for a caramelized delight, or bake them into delectable tarts and pies.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Mangoes<\/span><\/h2>

Mangoes<\/a> are tropical treasures with a honey-like, tangy flavor and smooth skin.\u00a0<\/span>Varieties like Haden, <\/span>Tommy Atkins<\/span><\/a>, and Ataulfo<\/a> bring a burst of sunshine to your taste buds.\u00a0<\/span>Loaded with vitamins A and C, folate, and antioxidants, mangoes are fantastic for boosting immune health, enhancing skin health, and promoting overall vitality.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Enjoy mangoes fresh for a tropical snack, blend them into refreshing smoothies, or use them in cooking to add a sweet twist to savory dishes.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Lychees<\/span><\/h2>

Lychees<\/span><\/a> are gumball-sized tropical fruits originally from Southeast Asia. They feature rough, red skin and juicy, translucent flesh.\u00a0<\/span>Popular varieties include Brewster and Mauritius, offering a burst of sweetness in every bite. Rich in vitamin C, copper, and antioxidants, lychees are great for boosting your immune system and protecting against free radicals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Lychees are great for a refreshing treat\u2014add them to desserts for a tropical twist, or blend them into beverages for a unique flavor.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Avocados<\/span><\/h2>

Avocados<\/span><\/a> are unusual among stone fruits due to their creamy texture and savory flavor.\u00a0<\/span>Known for their smooth, green skin and large central pit, avocados come in varieties like Hass<\/a> and Fuerte. Packed with healthy fats, vitamins E and C, potassium, and fiber, avocados are fantastic for heart health, skin health, and providing long-lasting energy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Avocados are great sliced on toast, mashed into guacamole, or blended into smoothies for a creamy, nutritious boost.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Olives<\/span><\/h2>

Olives<\/span><\/a> are small, oval fruits with a firm texture and a savory, sometimes bitter flavor.\u00a0<\/span>Varieties include green olives, like Manzanilla and\u00a0<\/span>Castelvetrano<\/span><\/a>, and black olives, like <\/span>Kalamata<\/span><\/a>. Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, olives are excellent for heart health and reducing inflammation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Snack on olives straight from the jar, add them to salads and pizzas, or incorporate them into Mediterranean dishes for a burst of flavor.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Dates<\/span><\/h2>

Dates<\/span><\/a> are sweet, chewy fruits with a rich caramel flavor and a wrinkled, brown exterior.\u00a0<\/span>Varieties like Medjool and Deglet Noor are among the most popular. High in natural sugars, fiber, potassium, and magnesium, dates provide quick energy and are great for digestive health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

They\u2019re great as a natural sweetener in baking, blend them into smoothies, or snack on them for a quick, nutritious pick-me-up.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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How to Select and Store Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h2>

Stone fruits are best enjoyed when they are ripe and juicy, bursting with flavor. Knowing how to select and store them properly ensures you get the most delicious experience from these delightful fruits.<\/span><\/p>

Tips for Selecting Ripe Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h3>

Choosing the perfect stone fruit can feel like a treasure hunt, but with a few simple tips, you\u2019ll be a pro in no time.<\/span><\/p>

Look for vibrant color<\/b><\/span> – A ripe stone fruit will have a rich, vibrant color. Peaches and nectarines should show off deep yellow to orange hues with a rosy blush, while plums can range from deep purple to red or yellow. The brighter, the better!<\/span><\/p>

Check the skin<\/b><\/span> – The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes or wrinkles. Avoid fruits with cuts, bruises, or soft spots\u2014they\u2019ve seen better days.<\/span><\/p>

Gently squeeze<\/b><\/span> – Give the fruit a gentle squeeze. It should yield slightly to your touch. If it’s rock hard, it needs more time to ripen. If it\u2019s too squishy, it\u2019s probably past its prime.<\/span><\/p>

Smell the fruit<\/b><\/span> – Ripe stone fruit will have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If it smells like nothing or unripe, give it some more time.<\/span><\/p>

Best Practices for Storing Stone Fruit<\/span><\/h3>

Once you\u2019ve picked the perfect stone fruits, the next step is storing them properly to maintain their deliciousness.\u00a0<\/span>Here\u2019s how to keep them fresh and tasty:<\/span><\/p>

Store at room temperature<\/b><\/span> – Let your stone fruits ripen at room temperature. They\u2019ll soak up the ambient warmth and turn deliciously ripe.<\/span><\/p>

Refrigerate once ripe<\/b><\/span> – Once your fruit hits peak ripeness, pop it in the fridge to slow down the process and keep it fresh. This can buy you 3-5 extra days of perfect fruit enjoyment.<\/span><\/p>

Use a paper bag<\/b><\/span> – Need your fruit to ripen faster? Place it in a paper bag. The bag traps ethylene gas emitted by the fruit, speeding up the ripening.<\/span><\/p>

Avoid overcrowding<\/b><\/span> – Give your fruits some breathing room. Store them in a single layer to prevent bruising and ensure they ripen evenly.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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How to Ripen Stone Fruit at Home<\/span><\/h3>

Sometimes, you bring home fruit that’s not quite ready to eat. Don\u2019t worry, you can help it along!\u00a0<\/span>Here\u2019s how to ripen stone fruits at home:<\/span><\/p>

Use the paper bag method<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> Place your stone fruits in a paper bag to speed up ripening. For turbocharged ripening, add a ripe banana or apple to the bag. These fruits emit extra ethylene gas, cranking up the ripening speed.<\/span><\/p>

Keep them at room temperature<\/b><\/span> – Leave your stone fruits on the counter at room temperature. Warmth helps them ripen faster.<\/span><\/p>

Check daily<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> Stone fruits can go from unripe to perfect to overripe quickly, so check them daily. Once they\u2019re just right, move them to the fridge.<\/span><\/p>

Avoid plastic bags<\/b><\/span> –<\/span> Plastic bags trap moisture and can cause your fruits to mold and spoil. Stick with paper bags or let them ripen in the open air.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Get Your Favorite Stone Fruit Options Delivered Straight To Your Door<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Whether you\u2019re in <\/span>Manhattan<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Brooklyn<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>The Bronx<\/span><\/a>, or the greater New York City area, you can have all the stone fruits that you love delivered straight to your door with FreshDirect.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Our same-day delivery in many areas means that you can have all your favorites on demand\u2014like peaches, cherries, nectarines\u2014for snacking, baking pies, and more. FreshDirect ensures hassle free delivery.\u00a0<\/span>Get the tastiest stone fruit from FreshDirect today!<\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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SHOP STONE FRUITS<\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Stone fruits are a highlight among the bounty of summer produce, bursting with juicy flavors and vibrant colors that make our taste buds dance. But what exactly is a stone fruit? If you’re picturing a rock-hard snack, think again!\u00a0From the succulent sweetness of peaches to the tangy zing of plums, stone fruits offer a diverse array of flavors and textures that are perfect for everything from fresh snacking to baking into jammy sauces and desserts. What is Stone Fruit?\u00a0 Stone fruits, also known as drupes, are a category of fruits characterized by their fleshy exterior and a large, hard pit or “stone” inside. This stone protects the fruit’s seed, making it a unique feature among fruits.\u00a0The term “stone fruit” encompasses a wide variety of fruits that share this common trait, each offering a burst of flavor and a wealth of nutrients. History and Origin of Stone Fruit Stone fruits have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The cultivation of stone fruits began in ancient times, with peaches and plums being some of the earliest cultivated fruits. Archaeological evidence suggests that peaches were grown in China as early as 8000 BCE, while plums were cultivated in Europe and Asia.\u00a0Over time, these fruits spread across the world thanks to trade routes and explorers. Stone fruits have held significant cultural importance throughout history. In ancient China, peaches were symbols of immortality and were often featured in art and literature.\u00a0 Characteristics of Stone Fruit Stone fruits are known for their distinct characteristics: Pit – At the heart of every stone fruit is a hard, inedible pit that houses the seed. This stone is often surrounded by a thin, fibrous layer that separates it from the fruit’s flesh. Flesh – The flesh of stone fruit is typically juicy, tender, and rich in flavor. Depending on the type, it can range from sweet to tart. Skin – The skin of stone fruit varies in texture and color. It can be smooth and thin, like a nectarine, or fuzzy, like a peach. The color spectrum includes shades of yellow, red, purple, and green. Nutritional Benefits of Stone Fruit Stone fruits are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits: High in vitamins and minerals – Stone fruits are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, boosting the immune system, and supporting heart health. Rich in antioxidants: These fruits are rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and anthocyanins, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Low in calories and high in fiber: Stone fruits are low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making them a perfect snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The fiber content also aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. FreshDirect Partner: Family Tree Farms Three generations of the Jackson family make up this business that grows the most unique and flavorful fruits. Each of their varieties goes through a meticulous selection process and only makes the cut after extensive tastings from fruit test pilots and global breeding programs. Every summer at FreshDirect, we anticipate the arrival of Family Tree’s many gems because we know they\u2019ll reflect the Jacksons\u2019 expertise and dedication to cultivating the most perfect fruits. SHOP ON FRESHDIRECT Top 10 Types of Stone Fruit Stone fruits come in a delightful variety of flavors, textures, and colors \u2014 each type offers its own unique taste and culinary possibilities. Peaches Peaches are the quintessential summer fruit, known for their sweet, juicy flesh and fuzzy skin.\u00a0Some varieties have a pit that comes out clean (freestone), while others stick to the flesh (clingstone). Some popular types include the golden Elberta, the floral-scented white peach, and the uniquely shaped Donut peach.\u00a0Bursting with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, peaches are a delicious way to support healthy skin, boost your immune system, and keep your digestion on track. You can bite into a fresh peach for a juicy summer snack, bake them into mouth-watering pies and cobblers, grill or pan sear them to serve with meats, or preserve them in jars of homemade peach jam. Plums Plums are nature\u2019s candy, with a spectrum of flavors ranging from tart to sweet.\u00a0These smooth-skinned beauties come in a rainbow of colors, from deep purple to golden yellow. European and Japanese plums are among the most beloved varieties, while the many hybrid and specialty cultivars mean there’s always something new to discover.\u00a0High in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, plums are great for supporting bone health, enhancing your immune function, and fighting off free radicals.\u00a0 Enjoy plums fresh for a quick, healthy snack, cook them into savory dishes for a sweet-tart twist, or dry them into prunes for a fiber-rich treat that\u2019s good for your gut! Apricots Apricots may be small, but they pack a punch with their golden-orange hue and smooth, velvety flesh.\u00a0Blenheim and Moorpark are popular varieties that deliver on flavor and texture. Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, apricots are excellent for eye health, boosting your immune system, and aiding digestion.\u00a0 Savor apricots fresh for a juicy treat, dry them for a chewy snack on the go, or whip up some homemade apricot jam to spread on your morning toast. Cherries Cherries are tiny bursts of flavor, coming in sweet and tart varieties.\u00a0Sweet cherries like Bing and fruity white cherries like\u00a0Rainier are perfect for munching, while tart ones like Montmorency shine in baked goods.\u00a0Packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and anti-inflammatory compounds, cherries are a powerhouse for reducing muscle soreness and improving sleep quality.\u00a0 Snack on fresh cherries by the handful, bake them into luscious pies and tarts, or turn them into sweet preserves to enjoy year-round. Nectarines Nectarines are like peaches\u2019 smooth-skinned cousins, offering a similar sweet and juicy experience. Like peaches, there are both\u00a0freestone or clingstone types. Varieties like Arctic White, Fantasia, or Pearlicious white nectarine are sure to please.\u00a0High in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, nectarines are a tasty way to support healthy skin, boost your immune function, and aid digestion. Bite into a fresh nectarine for a refreshing snack, grill them for a caramelized delight, or bake them into delectable tarts and pies. Mangoes Mangoes are tropical treasures with a honey-like, tangy flavor and smooth skin.\u00a0Varieties like Haden, Tommy Atkins, and Ataulfo bring a burst of sunshine to your taste buds.\u00a0Loaded with vitamins A and C, folate, and antioxidants, mangoes are fantastic for boosting immune health, enhancing skin health, and promoting overall vitality.\u00a0 Enjoy mangoes fresh for a tropical snack, blend them into refreshing smoothies, or use them in cooking to add a sweet twist to savory dishes. Lychees Lychees are gumball-sized tropical fruits originally from Southeast Asia. They feature rough, red skin and juicy, translucent flesh.\u00a0Popular varieties include Brewster and Mauritius, offering a burst of sweetness in every bite. Rich in vitamin C, copper, and antioxidants, lychees are great for boosting your immune system and protecting against free radicals.\u00a0 Lychees are great for a refreshing treat\u2014add them to desserts for a tropical twist, or blend them into beverages for a unique flavor. Avocados Avocados are unusual among stone fruits due to their creamy texture and savory flavor.\u00a0Known for their smooth, green skin and large central pit, avocados come in varieties like Hass and Fuerte. Packed with healthy fats, vitamins E and C, potassium, and fiber, avocados are fantastic for heart health, skin health, and providing long-lasting energy.\u00a0 Avocados are great sliced on toast, mashed into guacamole, or blended into smoothies for a creamy, nutritious boost. Olives Olives are small, oval fruits with a firm texture and a savory, sometimes bitter flavor.\u00a0Varieties include green olives, like Manzanilla and\u00a0Castelvetrano, and black olives, like Kalamata. Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, olives are excellent for heart health and reducing inflammation.\u00a0 Snack on olives straight from the jar, add them to salads and pizzas, or incorporate them into Mediterranean dishes for a burst of flavor. Dates Dates are sweet, chewy fruits with a rich caramel flavor and a wrinkled, brown exterior.\u00a0Varieties like Medjool and Deglet Noor are among the most popular. High in natural sugars, fiber, potassium, and magnesium, dates provide quick energy and are great for digestive health.\u00a0 They\u2019re great as a natural sweetener in baking, blend them into smoothies, or snack on them for a quick, nutritious pick-me-up. How to Select and Store Stone Fruit Stone fruits are best enjoyed when they are ripe and juicy, bursting with flavor. Knowing how to select and store them properly ensures you get the most delicious experience from these delightful fruits. Tips for Selecting Ripe Stone Fruit Choosing the perfect stone fruit can feel like a treasure hunt, but with a few simple tips, you\u2019ll be a pro in no time. Look for vibrant color – A ripe stone fruit will have a rich, vibrant color. Peaches and nectarines should show off deep yellow to orange hues with a rosy blush, while plums can range from deep purple to red or yellow. The brighter, the better! Check the skin – The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes or wrinkles. Avoid fruits with cuts, bruises, or soft spots\u2014they\u2019ve seen better days. Gently squeeze – Give the fruit a gentle squeeze. It should yield slightly to your touch. If it’s rock hard, it needs more time to ripen. If it\u2019s too squishy, it\u2019s probably past its prime. Smell the fruit – Ripe stone fruit will have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If it smells like nothing or unripe, give it some more time. Best Practices for Storing Stone Fruit Once you\u2019ve picked the perfect stone fruits, the next step is storing them properly to maintain their deliciousness.\u00a0Here\u2019s how to keep them fresh and tasty: Store at room temperature – Let your stone fruits ripen at room temperature. They\u2019ll soak up the ambient warmth and turn deliciously ripe. Refrigerate once ripe – Once your fruit hits peak ripeness, pop it in the fridge to slow down the process and keep it fresh. This can buy you 3-5 extra days of perfect fruit enjoyment. Use a paper bag – Need your fruit to ripen faster? Place it in a paper bag. The bag traps ethylene gas emitted by the fruit, speeding up the ripening. Avoid overcrowding – Give your fruits some breathing room. Store them in a single layer to prevent bruising and ensure they ripen evenly. How to Ripen Stone Fruit at Home Sometimes, you bring home fruit that’s not quite ready to eat. Don\u2019t worry, you can help it along!\u00a0Here\u2019s how to ripen stone fruits at home: Use the paper bag method – Place your stone fruits in a paper bag to speed up ripening. For turbocharged ripening, add a ripe banana or apple to the bag. These fruits emit extra ethylene gas, cranking up the ripening speed. Keep them at room temperature – Leave your stone fruits on the counter at room temperature. Warmth helps them ripen faster. Check daily – Stone fruits can go from unripe to perfect to overripe quickly, so check them daily. Once they\u2019re just right, move them to the fridge. Avoid plastic bags – Plastic bags trap moisture and can cause your fruits to mold and spoil. Stick with paper bags or let them ripen in the open air. Get Your Favorite Stone Fruit Options Delivered Straight To Your Door Whether you\u2019re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, or the greater New York City area, you can have all the stone fruits that you love delivered straight to your door with FreshDirect. Our same-day delivery in many areas means that you can have all your favorites on demand\u2014like peaches, cherries, nectarines\u2014for snacking, baking pies, and more. FreshDirect ensures hassle free delivery.\u00a0Get the tastiest stone fruit from FreshDirect today! 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