The Peach vs. Nectarine Debate
I love them both. Lately I’ve been wondering about their slight differences, which sent me down the rabbit hole of looking into their unique characteristics.
So, what’s the difference?
The main distinction comes down to texture:
- Peaches have thicker, fuzzy skin and softer flesh.
- Nectarines are smooth-skinned and slightly firmer. They are typically smaller than peaches. Nectarines are peaches without fuzz.
The difference is caused by one single gene. Nutritionally, they’re pretty much neck and neck—both low in calories, contain vitamin C, potassium, fiber, antioxidants, and a sweet way to stay hydrated thanks to their high water content.
How are they similar?
They are stone fruits because they contain a large, hard pit. Both have freestone, clingstone, or semi-freestone pits, plus yellow or white flesh.
Freestone fruits contain pits that are easy to remove, while the pits of clingstone fruits are hard to separate from the flesh. Semi-freestone peaches or nectarines are a hybrid of the first two.
White peaches and white nectarines are sweeter than their yellow counterparts due to their lower acidity. Their sweetness increases with ripeness.
When I first bring them home, they’re usually hard as rocks. I let my peaches and nectarines sit out at room temperature until they are just slightly soft to the touch. Then I put them in the fridge to prevent spoilage.
Ways to enjoy them
They’re the perfect snack just as they are—raw, juicy, delicious.
Peaches tend to be a bit juicier and softer, perfect for cobblers, pies, jams, salsas, or fresh slices over yogurt. Nectarines often have a firmer bite and a slightly tangier flavor, making them great for grilling or slicing into salads.
More Ideas
- Add sliced nectarines to a spinach and goat cheese salad.
- Make a peach salsa with red onion, jalapeño, lime, and cilantro.
- Grill nectarines and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and honey for dessert.
- Toss into your smoothie.
- Add to your oatmeal or yogurt.
Whichever you prefer, now is the time to enjoy these sweet, sun-ripened gems while they’re at their peak.
And let that juice roll down your chin.
Much summer love,
Health Coach Carol
An apple is an excellent thing—until you have tried a peach. —George du Maurier