California Tree Fruit Agreement
Peach particulars: Two large peaches equal 2 cups peeled
and sliced, or 1-2/3 cups peeled and diced, or 1-1/2 cups pureed.

Prices are
pretty as a peach

Peach season begins in late April and runs through the fall, according to the California Tree Fruit Agreement, a co-op of fruit growers.

In Hawaii, though, that season is somewhat compressed. The really nice fruit and the lower prices are catching up to us only now.

But enough whining. Peach prices have broken the dollar mark -- 89 cents a pound at Safeway. (Apricots are also a good deal at Safeway, 99 cents a pound). It's time to buy.

Daiei has peaches (and plums) for $1.47 a pound, and Foodland lists them at $1.49.

Some collected wisdom from the fruit growers:

Question: Who considered the peach to be a symbol of long life and immortality? The ancient Chinese.

Question: If my peach isn't red, does that mean it's not ripe? No. The amount of "blush" in a peach differs by variety. A nice peach has a yellow background color. To test for ripeness, squeeze gently. If it gives slightly, eat it.

Question: Are peaches fattening? One peach has 50 calories, mostly from carbohydrates, and no fat, of course.

How to dress up a naked peach:

Spread peanut butter on whole wheat bread. Top with peach slices.

Spread graham crackers or rice cakes with cream cheese and top with peach slices.

Toss two peaches, chopped, into a blender with a cup of milk and a dash of nutmeg for a quick shake.

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Star-Bulletin staff