It’s the peak of Palisade peach season, and there’s no better way to enjoy the fleeting stone fruit than by sampling it in a variety of local dishes. Chefs and bakers in southern Colorado are highlighting the peaches in both savory and sweet recipes.
Grumpy’s Cafe, Pueblo
• Try the Palisade peach tart at Grumpy’s Cafe in Pueblo, an iced pastry filled with peach jam that debuted on the menu a few weeks ago. The soft, buttery dough complements the slightly tart filling, best enjoyed with a cup of strong coffee.
Address: 811 W. Fourth St., Pueblo
Hours: Tue–Sat, 7 a.m.–2 p.m.
OCC Brewing, Old Colorado City
• At OCC Brewing, three menu items feature peaches. The peach and churro waffles are Belgian waffles spiced and fried like churros, topped with peach chutney and whipped cream. For something lighter, try the Palisade peach parfait, layered with Greek yogurt, peach chutney, granola and a drizzle of honey. For the show-stopping entrée, order the peaches and pork: a pan-seared center-cut pork chop with tarragon shallot butter, housemade peach chutney and crispy balsamic Brussels sprouts.
Address: 2316 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs
Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Weekend Brunch: Sat–Sun, 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
BC’s Barbecue, Colorado Springs
• BC’s Barbecue is serving several specials to celebrate peach season. The smoked pork belly street tacos are topped with Palisade peach salsa and avocado crema. The arugula salad features honey-macerated peaches, burrata and balsamic. For dessert, order the peaches and cream bread pudding, made with macerated peaches and whipped cream.
Address: 2458 Montebello Square Drive, Colorado Springs
Hours: Tue 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Wed 5–8:30 p.m.
The unique combination of warm days, cool nights and mineral-rich soil helps Colorado produce some of the juiciest and sweetest peaches in the country. Enjoy the season before it ends in late September, whether by buying fresh fruit at your local farmers market or sampling one of these dishes.