Nothing tastes more like summer than sinking your teeth into a juicy nectarine. They’re a good source of gut friendly fibre and contain vitamin C (immune boosting), A (eye health) and potassium (lowers blood pressure). They’re at their best in the UK from May to September, so make the most of them while you can. Here are our top 5 ways to enjoy nectarines.

1. Roasted with almonds

If you’re after a guilt free dessert, then you’ve got to give this dish a try. Simply cut the nectarines in half and destone them. Place them skin down in a baking dish and fill the holes with ground almonds, a squeeze of orange juice, a drizzle of honey and some flaked almonds. Alternatively, you could try other flavourings like grated fresh ginger, vanilla pod, handful of raspberries, or basil leaves (you’ll be surprised at how well basil complements the fruit). Serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt, crème fraiche, banana nice cream, or if you’re feeling naughty then a little bit of cream.

2. Light salad

Nectarines aren’t just for sweet desserts, we love them in savoury dishes too. Try grilling the nectarines in wedges until caramelised and serving them on a bed of rocket with a good quality buffalo mozzarella or goats cheese, ripe tomatoes, slices of red onion, basil leaves, toasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. You could also throw in a few slices of pancetta.

3. Fruity twist

Think pork and apple! Lots of fruits pair well with the sweetness of meat such as pork. Instead of using apples, try caramelising nectarines in a pan with rosemary, honey, peppercorns and lean pork tenderloins. You could also try it with beef and make a nectarine salsa with red onion, coriander and chilli flakes.

4. Nice cream

Have you heard the phrase ‘nice cream’ before? It’s basically frozen bananas blended to make a creamy dessert with a texture similar to ice-cream. The bananas can be combined with fruits like nectarines and strawberries, or more indulgent ingredients like chocolate. You can also add nut butter and honey to help flavour it. You need to be patient with the blender as it needs time to slowly break down the bananas. You can place it in a container and freeze it but it definitely tastes best straight out the blender.

5. Grain dishes

Similar to the salad above, nectarines taste delicious combined with a grain like pear barley, cracked bulgur wheat or quinoa. Pair it with a creamy cheese like blue cheese, crushed walnuts, cucumber, and a lemon and mustard dressing. This can be served as a main or as a side to meat or fish.