Savoring Summer's Stone Fruit Treasures: A Guide to Plumcots, Apriums, and Pluots

Hey Empower Fresh partners! As the summer sun ripens the fields of California, get ready to introduce your customers to a trio of exceptional stone fruits: plumcots, apriums, and pluots. These delightful hybrids, each a unique blend of plum and apricot, offer a spectrum of flavors and textures perfect for warm-weather enjoyment. Let's explore these seasonal stars and how to make them shine in your produce departments.

Unveiling the Hybrids: A Taste of Summer Innovation

Born from clever cross-breeding, these fruits showcase nature's ingenuity. While they share a plum-apricot ancestry, each boasts its own distinct personality, readily available at their peak during the summer months thanks to California's ideal growing conditions.

• Plumcots: The Harmonious Half-and-Half: Envision the balanced sweetness of an apricot meeting the subtle tang of a plum. That's the magic of a plumcot. With a flavor that beautifully bridges these two beloved fruits, and often displaying vibrant yellow, orange, or red skin, plumcots are a true taste of summer's bounty.

• Apriums: Where Apricot Takes the Lead: For those who crave the luscious, honeyed notes of apricot, apriums are a summer revelation. Characterized by their slightly fuzzy skin and intense sweetness, these fruits lean heavily on their apricot heritage. Look for their sunny yellow, orange, or red hues signaling their summer ripeness.

• Pluots: The Plum's Sweet Enhancement: If a burst of juicy sweetness is what your customers desire, pluots are the summer answer. Smooth-skinned and predominantly plum in nature, they offer an amplified sweetness with a hint of apricot complexity. Their striking colors, ranging from deep purple to rich red and even fresh green, make them visually appealing additions to your summer displays.

Fresh Ideas for Summer Promotions:

Let's inspire your customers with simple, delicious ways to enjoy these summer stone fruit gems:

1. Effortless Grilled Fruit for Summer Evenings: Slice plumcots, apriums, and pluots into wedges and toss them lightly with a touch of honey and lime zest. A quick grill brings out their natural sugars, creating a simple yet elegant dessert or side for summer barbecues.

2. Refreshing Summer Salad Sensations: Combine slices of these delightful fruits with cool, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. A light vinaigrette made with lime juice and olive oil enhances their summery flavors for a vibrant salad.

3. Quick & Healthy Broiled Fruit Topping: Halve and pit your chosen stone fruit. Place them cut-side up under the broiler for a few minutes until slightly softened and caramelized. Spoon the warm fruit over yogurt or ice cream for a naturally sweet and satisfying summer treat.

Elevating Your Summer Produce Presentation:

• Clearly Define Each Variety: Use descriptive signage highlighting the unique taste and texture of plumcots, apriums, and pluots, emphasizing their peak summer availability and California origin.
• Encourage Discovery with Samples: Offer small tastes to introduce customers to the distinct flavors of each hybrid.
• Create Summer-Themed Displays: Arrange these colorful fruits alongside other seasonal favorites, suggesting pairings and usage ideas.
• Share Simple Summer Recipes: Provide easy-to-follow recipe cards showcasing the versatility of these fruits in warm-weather dishes.

This summer, empower your customers to explore the delicious world of California-grown plumcots, apriums, and pluots. By highlighting their unique qualities and offering inspiring ways to enjoy them, you'll cultivate excitement and drive sales throughout the season. Let's make these summer stone fruits a must-have for every shopping basket!