June flew by this year, and before we noticed it's already July. I always forget how hot it gets during a Texas summer until we hit mid-July and it feels like the whole world is melting! But fortunately, we have two great recipes to help you beat the heat this summer with the July Produce Pick of the Month – nectarines! This fruit is similar to peaches, but slightly sweeter. And with its smooth skin, nectarines are in season throughout the summer. Pick some up today at your local Brookshire Brothers and try out these great recipes.

Strawberry Nectarine Bruschetta

½ cup strawberries, diced
1 nectarine, diced
1 baguette, sliced into ½ inch thick slices and lightly toasted
4 ozs goat cheese (we recommend MontChevré Fresh Goat Cheese – Honey, Lemon, or Blueberry Vanilla flavors)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
5-6 fresh basil leaves, cut into thin ribbons

In a small bowl, mix the strawberries and nectarine pieces. Set aside. Spread the baguette slices with the goat cheese and top with the fruit mixture, pressing the fruit into the cheese to keep it in place. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with the basil ribbons. Chill for up to 2 hours. Serve at room temperature.

Sweet Nectarine Sangria

1 bottle prosecco, champagne, or sparkling rosé, chilled
4 fresh nectarines, pitted
½ cup brandy or white rum
1, 11 or 12 oz, can peach nectar – Kern’s or Jumex
Juice from 1 lemon

In a large bowl, add brandy or rum, peach nectar, lemon juice and cubed nectarines. Toss gently to coat. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours. Add chilled mixture to the bottom of a large pitcher. Top with prosecco or sparkling wine and serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy Kate Rudasill.