Ten Summer Fruits in Season

Now is the time to take advantage of the delicious fruits that will be in season during the summer months. Throughout the winter season, you may have tried buying strawberries or nectarines but they did not seem too appetizing. That is all about to change as summer is approaching. Head to your local grocery or farmer's market and pick out some of these great fruits that are in season. You can prepare them with your breakfast, take them on the go, or even include them in an outdoor picnic at the park. Fruits can be eaten anytime, and they are a wonderful replacement for unhealthy snacks.

Below is a list of ten summer fruits in season and some tips on how to pick them while they are perfectly ripe. Ripe fruit is important because you get the most out of the fruit's flavor the way it should be consumed.

Strawberries- You will be able to smell the fragrant aroma of ripe strawberries as well as healthy shine as opposed to a dull color.

Cherries- Choose cherries that are deep red in color as opposed to a pinkish color.

Apricots- You know when an apricot is ripe when it is orange-yellow in color. This fruit must be firm to the touch.

Plums- Plums that are ripe should feel firm, but not too hard, and should be plump.

Raspberries- Raspberries should be plump, firm and completely red.

Blueberries- If a blueberry has any hint of red, it is not ripe. They should be firm and have a fragrant smell.

Blackberries- These berries should be chosen when they are plump and dark. Make sure to check for mushiness or molded berries.

Peaches- When choosing a peach, it is best to check for bruises, as well as firmness. You should be able to gently apply pressure to it. Also, check for a gold undercolor to indicate ripeness as well.

Watermelon- One way to check for a ripe watermelon is to look at the stem. If it is dried out, then the melon is ripe. If it is still green, then it is not ready. Also, check to see if the watermelon is kind of yellow underneath. This also indicated ripeness.

Nectarines- As with the peach, nectarines should be able to give to gentle pressure. Check for bruises.

You've got the tips for picking fresh, ripe summer fruits. Throughout these next few months, you will be prepared to enjoy delicious fruits when they taste the best.