It’s time for summer fruit

Succulent New Zealand summer fruits, peaches, apricots and plums, nectarines, cherries and lots of different berries are becoming readily available in the lead-up to Christmas.

Enjoyed fresh is best, however there are numerous other ways to make the most of excess summer fruit, including overripe bounty, especially in culinary recipes and treats. Here are some ideas:

1. Free-flow freeze fruit while it is plentiful so you can enjoy all year long. Perfect for smoothies.
2. Use in salads.
3. Make into jam, even in small batches.
4. Bake a fruit bread, muffins and even scones, using chopped or mashed fruit.
5. Wrap in pastry and make a fruit pie, or layer in a crumble.
6. Roughly chop or mash and use as toppings for pancakes, ice-creams and even grilled meats.
7. Whizz in a blender and use in salad dressings with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings.