Peach Perfection
5 Sweet & Savory Ways to Use
Fresh Southern Peaches This Summer
Nothing says Made in the South quite like a ripe, juicy peach — and July is prime peach season here in the Upstate. Whether you’re plucking them fresh from the farmers market or picking your own straight from the orchard, there’s no better time to get creative in the kitchen.
These sweet Southern beauties shine in pies and cobblers, but they also hold their own in savory dishes, salads, and cocktails. Here are five delicious ways to bring a little peachy perfection to your summer table:
1. Peach & Prosciutto Crostini
Sweet, salty, and perfectly summery. Toast baguette slices, top with whipped goat cheese, sliced peaches, a drizzle of honey, and torn prosciutto. Add fresh basil for a pop of green.
2. Spicy Peach BBQ Chicken
Make a simple sauce with puréed peaches, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic. Brush over grilled chicken and serve with cornbread and slaw.
3. Peach Caprese Salad
A Southern spin on the Italian classic. Layer sliced peaches, tomatoes, and mozzarella with fresh basil and a balsamic glaze. Serve chilled.
4. Bourbon Peach Ice Cream
Blend ripe peaches into a creamy vanilla base with a splash of bourbon. No ice cream maker? Pour into popsicle molds for boozy peach creamsicles!
5. Grilled Peach & Arugula Salad
Halve and grill your peaches, then toss with arugula, candied pecans, crumbled feta, and a honey-Dijon vinaigrette.
Where to Buy Local Peaches in the Upstate
Support local farms and enjoy the freshest peaches around:
McLeod Farms (McBee, SC) – A South Carolina staple with a big roadside market, fresh produce, and homemade peach goodies.
Strawberry Hill USA (Chesnee, SC) – Don’t let the name fool you. Their summer peaches are legendary.
Fishers Orchard (Greer, SC) – A hometown favorite with multiple Upstate locations and pick-your-own events.
Cooley Farms (Chesnee, SC) – Family-run with sweet, juicy peaches and their famous homemade peach cider.
Little Extra: Make It a Peach Party!
Host a backyard “Peach Potluck” — ask guests to bring a peach-themed dish or drink. Set up a tasting table, vote on a winner, and send everyone home with a mini peach cobbler-in-a-jar!