Nectarines, like peaches, contain plenty of potassium, phosphorus and vitamins A and C. These fruits are most often consumed with their skin while peaches, due to their fuzzy layer, are eaten without. Although September is the nectarine’s prime season, it may be difficult to find them tree-ripened since 95% of those produced in the U.S. originate from California. However, after two or three days at room temperature, the nectarine will transform into a sweet distinctively flavored nutrient-filled yet low in calorie delight. Be sure to handle these with care as they will bruise easily and quickly. When in a pinch, the nectarine can be used interchangeable with apricots or peaches in fruit salads and homemade pastries making them a very versatile item for dessert recipes. You may also try them freshly sliced with breakfast cereal, yogurt or be daring and grill them for approximately 15 minutes alongside poultry!
Sweet Vanilla Nectarines
4 nectarines, cut in half and pitted
1/4 cup water
1-2 tablespoons raw grade B maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 425°F and place nectarines skin-side down in a small baking dish. Sprinkle with water. Then, stir together maple syrup and vanilla in a small bowl, until completely combined. Spoon the vanilla-maple syrup mixture into the cavity of each nectarine. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes. Uncover the pan and bake until the nectarines are tender and the juices are syrupy, about 15 minutes more. (Add more water if necessary.) Brush the nectarines with the syrup from the bottom of the dish. Serve warm or at room temperature.
~ Alison Held
Alison is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (affiliated with Columbia University) and a Masters Degree candidate in Human Nutrition. She is certified by the Association of Drugless Practitioners and has a private practice in Fairfield County.
Alison empowers individuals to become the best version of themselves through exceptional nutrition and health counseling. With a passion for and extensive knowledge in healthy living and delicious whole foods, Alison works closely with her clients guiding them to a happier, healthier way of life. Examples of client results include optimized anti-aging protocol, strengthened immune system, lowered cholesterol, increased energy and performance, weight loss/gain, stress reduction, pain elimination and improved sleep.
Her nutritional insights, "Healthy Bite," will be featured regularly in future issues of Aetherial Living.
If you enjoy this article, or would like to know more about Alison, please drop her a comment at alison@aetheriaspa.com
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