How to Use Fresh Peaches Like a Pro: 5 Unexpected Ways to Celebrate Peach Season

It is mid-summer which means it's peach season on the Eastern Shore. We are loving the abundance of fresh picked peaches from our local friends and the kitchen here at Sugar Water is using the peaches in so many ways. There are so many unexpected ways to use the peaches as well at home.

The peaches at Vessey Orchards are ripe, juicy, and practically made for enjoying right now. Whether you're cooking for friends or just whipping something up for yourself, peaches are a playful, flavorful way to add a touch of sunshine to your plate. Here are five fun and easy ways to use peaches just like we do at Sugar Water.

1. Bottle Up Summer with Canned Peaches

Just because summer doesn't last forever doesn't mean peach season has to end! Canning your peaches is a great way to capture their peak flavor and save it for chilly fall mornings or cozy winter desserts. Stock your pantry with jars of sunshine now, and you'll thank yourself later.

We take things a step further at Sugar Water by transforming our canned peaches into house-made jams and jellies--you'll find them topping our signature pork chop for a sweet-savory combo that's out of this world or as part of a dessert that is mouthwateringly delicious.

If you're inspired to try it at home, Dana has her guide to canning peaches using a water bath. Whether you're hot- or raw-packing, it's easier than you think and so worth a try!

2. Create Fancy Feels with Peaches and Burrata

Who says peaches are only for dessert? They can also be used as a great starter to your meal! Try pairing them with creamy burrata, peppery greens like arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic for a light and fancy dish that looks as good as it tastes.

At Sugar Water, we turn this combo into a show-stopping appetizer with fresh burrata from our friends in Union, New Jersey, local greens, peach slices, and delicious balsamic reduction. It's fresh, vibrant, and perfect for sharing before dinner or with a glass of wine.

3. Peach and Basil Orzo, Where Sweet Meets Savory

Peaches in pasta? Trust us on this one. Juicy peaches paired with tender orzo and fragrant basil bring a fresh twist to your summer sides and mains. It's sweet, savory, and beautifully balanced.

One of our all-time favorite specials featured at Sugar Water is a leek-tied rockfish stuffed with crab over peach and basil orzo, served with asparagus and white beurre blanc sauce. It's the kind of dish that surprises you in the best way.

Even on its own, peach and basil orzo is a total crowd-pleaser. It's light, colorful, and full of summer flavor!

Rockfish Special at Sugar Water Restaurant

4. A Peachy Slice of Angel Food Cake

Some desserts are pure comfort, and angel food cake with fresh peaches is one of them. It's light, fluffy, and oh-so nostalgic.

Sugar Water Restaurant keeps it classic and simple. Baker Bob makes our angel food cake fresh in-house, and we top each slice with peaches soaked in sugar water for the perfect amount of sweetness. Add a dollop of whipped cream and you've got the perfect end to any summer meal.

5. Refreshing Peach Lemonade Popsicles for Everyone

Want to know a secret way to cool down this summer? Peach lemonade popsicles are it! Made with just four ingredients--frozen peaches, lemon juice, honet, and water--they're easy to make and fun to customize.

Try them with fresh orchard peaches, a splash of mint, or your favorite sweetener. Whether you're chasing kids around the yard or relaxing on the porch, these popsicles are the most refreshing way to enjoy peach season.

Peach Season Isn't Over Yet!

From cozy jams to cool popsicles, elegant appetizers to unforgettable entrees, peaches are the ultimate summer ingredient. Sweet or savory, rustic or elevated--they do it all.

So grab a basket from Vessey Orchards, get creative in your kitchen, or join us at Sugar Water Restaurant, where we're still celebrating all the peachy goodness this season has to offer. There's still time to bring a little extra sunshine to your plate!