But unless you can pick your own, you'll probably have to make do with the slightly underripe, more durable apricots sold in markets. Allow them to soften at room temperature for a few days before eating them. They're best in the summer. These are too tart for most people to eat out of hand, but they make delicious preserves. Use them as you would ordinary peaches.
Nectarines resemble peaches, but they're sweeter and more nutritious.
They're best if they're allowed to ripen on the tree. Unfortunately, tree-ripened nectarines bruise easily, so most growers scrimp on flavor and pick and market them while they're still slightly underripe. After buying nectarines, you're supposed to let them ripen for a couple of days at room temperature before eating them. This makes them softer and juicier, but not sweeter. Select peaches that are colorful and free of bruises.