The sweet, floral nectarine

The peach's smooth-skinned cousin, the nectarine, is sweet and floral, sometimes with a slightly spicy undertone.

Nectarines are fabulous as is, or in salads with sturdy greens like watercress or frisee, or cooked down with mustard and spices as a condiment for grilled poultry.

When buying them, look for smooth, unbroken skin, and plump, slightly soft flesh. They should be firm, with less give than a peach. Cut out the pit by making a vertical cut all the way around, then twisting the halves apart. If the nectarine is too soft for that, cut a small wedge out of one side for leverage, then twist.

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