Nectarine Pineapple Conserves
Sweet and tangy nectarine pineapple conserves offer a vibrant fruit flavor, perfect for spreading or gifting. Ideal for summer gatherings and breakfast spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pit nectarines; do not peel. Finely chop or grind, using a coarse blade, or dice about 1/2 cup at a time in a processor until finely crushed, not smooth.
- Measure fruit; it should be 3 cups. Combine with undrained pineapple, lemon juice, cherries, and sugar in a large kettle.
- Heat to boiling, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Boil hard for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in pectin.
- Stir and skim off foam for 7 minutes.
- Pour into hot, sterilized glass jars and seal at once.
- Optional: pour a thin layer of melted paraffin over tops of jars.
- When cool, add a lid and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal texture, ensure nectarines are finely crushed but not pureed. If fresh nectarines are unavailable, canned or frozen nectarines can work, though the texture may differ. Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit and your preference. If you prefer a thicker conserve, consider adding more pectin or using a mix of fruits like in It Can't Be Beet Jelly.
Serving Suggestions
This nectarines and pineapple conserve is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or waffles. Pair it with cream cheese for a delightful dip, or use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. It also complements savory dishes like grilled meats, creating a sweet contrast. Explore more American recipes for creative serving ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, where they can last for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks. To reheat, gently warm the conserve in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nectarine Pineapple Conserves contains roughly 301 calories, with 3g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in this conserve?
Yes, you can substitute nectarines with peaches or plums for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to maintain the same volume of fruit to keep the balance of sweetness and acidity. Mixing fruits can also create interesting flavor combinations.
How can I ensure my jars are properly sterilized?
To sterilize jars, wash them in hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Place them in a preheated oven at 225°F for 10-15 minutes, or boil them in water for 10 minutes. This will help prevent spoilage and ensure your conserve stays fresh longer.
Is it necessary to use pectin in this recipe?
While pectin helps achieve the desired thickness and consistency in the conserve, you can opt for less or none if you prefer a thinner texture. Just keep in mind that reducing or omitting pectin may alter the final product's consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).