Mangoes

A ripe mango is an unforgettable experience—velvety and juicy, peachy sweet.

Some varieties are round and plump; others are kidney shaped. They weigh anywhere from half a pound to three pounds, and are usually yellow to red orange when ripe but also occasionally green. You should be able to buy mangoes all summer long through September.

With a ripe mango, keep it simple—peel and eat. The flesh does not leave the large central pit without a struggle. You just have to cut around it with a sharp knife. Mango is as good in fruit salads as it is in green and vegetable salads or with grilled pork or chicken. It makes a delicious purée spooned over dessert or cut up and combined with pineapples and strawberries. Mango makes excellent chutney and luscious sorbet when blended with banana.