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Healthy Foods: How Did These Fruits Get Their Names?

By , About.com Guide

Updated March 03, 2013

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Nectarines
Nectarines
Philipp Pilz
How Nectarines Got Their Name

Nectarines are really peaches with smooth skin. The name 'nectarine' comes from the word nectar, which refers to a sweet liquid that was believed to be enjoyed by Greek and Roman gods.

Nectarines in the Kitchen

Nectarines offer potassium, magnesium, fiber and vitamin A. One medium-sized fruit has 62 calories. Fresh nectarines are found in the produce section of the grocery store. Choose fruits that are firm with a fresh aroma. They can be eaten as snacks or used in recipes such as Nectarine Sole.

Sources:

"Nectarine." Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas Harper, Historian. November 28, 2010. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/nectarine.

"Apricots, raw." USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. Accessed November 28, 2010. http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/search/.

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