TOP 5 SUMMER FRUITS TO ENJOY

Summer is a time to embrace the outdoors, enjoy the sunshine, and indulge in refreshing, juicy fruits that perfectly complement the warm weather. Thanks to the country’s diverse climate, there’s an abundance of fresh, locally grown fruits available during the summer months—from tropical delights to seasonal classics.

 Whether you're enjoying a picnic at the beach, a BBQ in the backyard, or just relaxing at home, here are the top 5 summer fruits to enjoy.

MANGOES

Why They're a Summer Favourite:

Mangoes are arguably the most iconic summer fruit in Australia. Known for their rich, sweet flesh and tropical flavour, they are synonymous with our summer and a must-have in many households. Australian mangoes are typically harvested from November through March, making them readily available during the festive season.

Varieties:

Kensington Pride: Also known as the “common mango” or “Indo,” this variety is known for its fragrant aroma and rich, smooth flesh.

R2E2: This variety has a large size and a less fibrous texture, making it perfect for smoothies and salads.

Calypso: A smaller mango variety, Calypsos have a thin skin and sweet, juicy flesh.

How to Enjoy:

Mango Smoothie: Blend mangoes with yogurt or coconut milk for a tropical drink.

Fresh Slices: Simply peel and slice them to enjoy as a snack.

Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango with red onion, chilli, and cilantro for a sweet and spicy salsa to pair with grilled meats or seafood.

WATERMELON

Why It's a Summer Staple:

Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit, providing hydration with its high water content and sweet, refreshing flavour. This large, juicy fruit is perfect for picnics, beach days, or backyard BBQs, offering an easy way to cool down on a hot day. Watermelon season peaks during the summer months, from December to March.

Varieties:

Seedless Watermelon: The most common variety, prized for its crisp texture and seed-free, red flesh.

Mini Watermelon: A smaller, more compact version of the traditional watermelon, ideal for small gatherings or individual servings.

How to Enjoy:

Fresh Slices: Cut into wedges for an easy and refreshing snack.

Watermelon Salad: Combine diced watermelon with feta cheese, mint, and a squeeze of lime for a light and vibrant salad.

Watermelon Juice: Blend watermelon chunks with a splash of lemon or lime juice for a refreshing beverage.

PINEAPPLE

Why It's a Summer Hit:

Pineapple, with its tangy-sweet flavour and tropical vibe, is a perfect addition to any summer meal. It’s a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, grilled, or blended into drinks. Pineapples are in season from November through March, especially in Queensland and Northern New South Wales, where they thrive in the warm climate.

How to Enjoy:

Grilled Pineapple: Slice the pineapple into rings or wedges and grill them for a caramelised, smoky treat that pairs well with meats or as a standalone snack.

Pineapple Sorbet: Blend frozen pineapple chunks with a little honey or coconut water for a refreshing, dairy-free dessert.

Tropical Smoothie: Combine pineapple with mango and coconut milk for a delicious tropical smoothie.

PEACHES

Why They're Perfect for Summer:

Peaches are a classic summer stone fruit, known for their juicy, sweet flesh and fragrant aroma. Peaches are at their best from December to February, with many varieties grown in the orchards of Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales. Their perfect balance of sweetness and acidity makes them an ideal fruit for eating fresh or using in desserts.

Varieties:

Clingstone: The flesh clings to the stone, making it a bit more challenging to pit, but it’s super sweet and juicy.

Freestone: The stone separates easily from the flesh, making these perfect for eating fresh or slicing into salads.

How to Enjoy:

Fresh and Chilled: Enjoy fresh peaches on their own, or chill them for an even more refreshing snack.

Peach Cobbler: Bake a simple peach cobbler or crumble for a classic dessert.

Peach Iced Tea: Infuse iced tea with slices of peach for a refreshing summer drink.

BERRIES (STRAWBERRIES, BLUEBERRIES, AND RASPBERRIES)

Why They're a Summer Favourite:

Berries are small, packed with antioxidants, and burst with sweet-tart flavour. They thrive in our summer months, particularly from December to February, making them perfect for a light, healthy treat during the hot weather. Berries are grown in regions like the Sunshine Coast, Tasmania, and the Yarra Valley, with strawberries being the most common.

Varieties:

Strawberries: The quintessential summer berry, strawberries are sweet, juicy, and perfect for any occasion.

Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, blueberries add a sweet, slightly tangy flavour to summer desserts and salads.

Raspberries: These delicate berries are both sweet and tart and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, desserts, or smoothies.

How to Enjoy:

Berry Salad: Combine strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a light, refreshing salad.

Berry Smoothie: Blend berries with yogurt, banana, and a splash of orange juice for a healthy and refreshing smoothie.

Berry Tart: Create a simple tart with a buttery crust, cream cheese filling, and a generous topping of fresh berries.

Summer offers a bounty of delicious, vibrant fruits that are not only packed with flavour but also with essential vitamins and hydration to keep you refreshed during the warmer months. Whether you’re indulging in the tropical sweetness of mangoes, the hydrating juiciness of watermelon, or the tangy goodness of pineapple and berries, these fruits are the perfect way to enjoy the summer sun.

So, next time you're at the market or the local fruit stand, be sure to stock up on these top 5 summer fruits to make the most of our warm season!