3 Healthy Peach Recipes

Peach season is in full swing, and there’s no better time to celebrate the juicy goodness of Michigan peaches. From mid-July through mid-September, farmers’ markets and grocery stores across the state are overflowing with these sun-kissed fruits. Michigan ranks as the eighth top producer of peaches in the U.S. thanks to the ideal climate and rich soil. 

Peaches are more than just a summer treat – they’re a nutrient-rich fruit offering a variety of health benefits. One medium peach provides a healthy dose of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and fiber with only about 60 calories. Their bright orange hue hints at their beta-carotene content, which is converted into vitamin A to support immune health and vision. Peaches also contain polyphenols, plant compounds with antioxidant properties, that may help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic disease. Plus, their natural fiber content supports digestive and gut health. 

Peaches can add a burst of flavor to salads, complement proteins when grilled and can shine at the breakfast table. Check out these three wholesome recipes: 

Baked Peaches 

Serves: 2 

Prep time: 5 minutes 

Total time: 30 minutes 

Difficulty: Easy 

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, juicy peach straight from the oven. This easy baked peach recipe turns simple ingredients into something cozy and satisfying. Simply mix, bake and enjoy in under 30 minutes. 

Ingredients:

• 1 peach, halved, core removed 

• 1.5 Tbsp. butter, melted 

• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar 

• ½ tsp. ground cinnamon 

• ¼ cup pecans, chopped 

• Optional: vanilla bean ice cream 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 

2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon and chopped pecans.  

3. On a lined baking sheet, place halved peaches and add the pecan mixture on top. 

4. Bake for 25 minutes or until fork tender.  

5. Serve with vanilla bean ice cream or Greek yogurt if desired. 

Peach Crumble Recipe 

Serves: 2 

Prep time: 10 minutes 

Total time: 35 minutes 

Difficulty: Easy 

Peaches are the perfect fruit to pair with a with a crumble and cobbler. This seasonal recipe is a lighter take on a classic dessert with less sugar and butter, while packing in fiber from whole wheat oat flour and oats. Serving these in ramekins keeps portions in check. 

Ingredients:

• 1 peach, diced 

• 1.5 Tbsp. brown sugar 

• ¼ cup oats 

• ¼ cup oat flour (can substitute with white flour) 

• ½ tsp. vanilla extract 

• 2 Tbsp. butter, melted 

• 1 pinch kosher salt 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 

2. In small ramekins, divide up the diced peaches. 

3. In a bowl, add sugar, oats, flour, vanilla and butter. Mix until well combined. Add the crumble on top of peaches. 

4. Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream or spoonful of Greek yogurt if desired. 

Peach Panzanella Salad  

Serves: 4 

Prep time: 15 minutes 

Total time: 30 minutes 

Difficulty: Medium 

Panzanella is a classic Tuscan salad made of dried Italian bread, ripe tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette. This version adds grilled peaches which brings caramelized flavor to this dish without added sugar. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil 

• 1 tsp. dried oregano 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• 2 ripe but firm peaches, pitted and sliced 

• 2 cups Campari tomatoes, quartered 

• 2 slices sourdough, cubed 

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced 

• 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced 

• ½ cup fresh basil 

• 4 tbsp olive oil 

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 

• 1 garlic clove, minced 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and grill over medium-high heat. 

2. Once grill is hot, grill peaches for 2 minutes on each side until lightly charred.  

3. In a bowl, toss cubed sourdough with 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with oregano, salt and pepper. Place tossed bread on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden. 

4. While bread is baking, sprinkle some salt over tomatoes and onions. 

5. Make the dressing by combining 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, minced garlic along with salt and pepper to taste. 

6. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, mozzarella, toasted bread, grilled peach slices and basil. Toss with dressing and serve immediately so the bread doesn’t get soggy. 

Focusing on prevention like healthy eating and exercise can lead to lower health care costs and more affordable insurance for all. Learn about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s (BCBSM) commitment to affordability here. 

Shanthi Appelo is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson at BCBSM. For more health and wellness information, visit ahealthiermichigan.org.