7 Ways to Make the Most of Summer Fruit

By Marie-Antoinette Issa.

Summer in Australia is all about sun, surf and luscious seasonal fruit. From cheeky cherries and magical mangoes to beautiful berries and sweet stone fruit - like pinky peaches and plump, purply plums - tis the season to go fruity for fruit!

While a big bowl of fruit salad is a crowd-pleasing way to make the most of nature’s candy, here are seven other things to do with Summer fruit that are fresh, fun and flavourful: 

 

The most delicious way to complete a multi-course meal is with a berry-based baked good. From peach crumble to a classic pav topped with the best berries of the season, using fresh fruit in your baking brings a natural sweetness and a juicy pop to every bite. If you’re looking for something even simpler, a bowl of mixed berries with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sugar is a delicious, fuss-free option.

Smoothies are a perfect way to pack multiple fruits into one refreshing, warm-weather-approved drink. Combine peaches, strawberries, mango and a handful of spinach for a vibrant, nutrient-packed smoothie. You can also get creative with smoothie bowls by layering your favourite puréed fruit with toppings like granola, nuts, seeds and shredded coconut. These bowls are beautiful, nourishing and easy to customise. Plus, they make an ideal breakfast that’s cool, refreshing and full of flavour - when it's just too hot for bacon and eggs.

 

In addition to classic fruit-focused versions, a splash of fresh fruit can add a delicious twist to savoury salads, bringing a burst of sweetness that balances salty flavours. Try a watermelon and feta salad with fresh mint, a peach and burrata salad with basil, or a spinach salad with strawberries and goat cheese. For an extra kick, toss in a handful of toasted nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Grilled fruit is delicious! The heat caramelises the natural sugars, enhancing the sweetness and adding a subtle smoky flavour. Try grilling peaches, pineapple, watermelon or even mango slices. Grilled peaches pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, while grilled pineapple adds a tropical touch to chicken skewers or shrimp. Watermelon steaks are an unexpected delight and make for a fun addition to salads. Just brush your fruit lightly with olive oil, place on the grill for a few minutes per side and enjoy the magic! Bonus: it’s a great way to make use of overripe produce that may be just past its prime. 

 

One of the best ways to make Summer fruits last all year is by preserving them. Homemade jams, purées and compotes capture the spirit of the season in a jar, giving you a delicious reminder of sunny days whenever you spread it on toast or swirl it into yoghurt. Choose ripe fruit, add sugar and a splash of lemon juice and cook them down until they reach a thick, spreadable consistency. Sterilise jars, pour in the preserves and seal them for a homemade treat that can be added to smoothies or baked goods - even in Winter.

Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve fresh Summer fruit, keeping their flavour and nutrients intact for months. Simply wash and cut your fruit into bite-sized pieces, spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag or container for easy access. Frozen fruit are perfect for smoothies, where they add a natural chill and thickness. You can also snack on frozen grapes, use frozen berries as ‘ice cubes’ in water, or add frozen fruit to baked goods and sauces.

Finally, infusing water, lemonade or cocktails with fresh fruit is an easy way to enjoy the flavours of Summer all day long. Add a few slices of peach, cucumber and mint to water for a refreshing twist, or drop raspberries and lemon into sparkling water for a fun mocktail. For something a bit stronger, muddle strawberries and basil in a glass of gin and tonic, or use frozen fruit cubes as tasty, colourful ‘ice’ in cocktails.