Summer Peach-Jalapeño Salsa

Until I was well into my twenties, my experience with peaches was limited to the following:

Peaches are in grown-up cocktails, too

• The kind in the tin can with the peel back lid like a can of cat food has, usually accompanied by maraschino cherries and pears.  It was only later that I learned what a real "cocktail" was.
• The video game princess from Super Mario Brothers.  Remember Princess Peach?  She would say "Peaches!" Or maybe that's just the Baby Peach in MarioKart.  I really wanted Princess Peach's blonde hair, even if it was feathered.  Anyway.

Nowadays, I know a good peach when I see one.  Soft and fuzzy on the outside, juicy and sweet on the inside.  I am definitely a pro-"juice-down-the-chin" girl.  I'd much rather have a messy peach than a crunchy one.

Peaches are only good in Maryland for a short time, especially when you want to source them locally.  Our CSA has provided us with fresh peaches for the past three weeks, and we're having a hard time keeping up.

Hence the following recipe; a great way to use enough peaches to feed a crowd.  Just double or triple or quadruple the recipe based on how many people at your summer soiree.

This is a healthy, sunny, and refreshing salsa made with peaches, jalapeños, and basil.  A hint of earthy cinnamon rounds out this festive summer dish.

I found that letting the salsa marinate for a while enhanced the flavor.  I'd recommend making this a day or so ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator until an hour or two before you serve it.  I also recommend serving it with blue corn tortilla chips, since it's prettier.  But you serve it how you like it.  I promise I won't hunt you down.

Summer Peach-Jalapeño Salsa with Basil and Cinnamon

(Serves 4)

• 2 peaches, peeled and diced small
• 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 large jalapeño pepper, diced small (remove the seeds to reduce heat)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt
• 2 tsp lemon juice

1.  Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl.

2.  You're done.

3.  Really.  Stop looking at me like that and go eat your salsa.

Eat well.