Scuppernong grapes (a variety of Muscadine) are a sweet late summer treat here in the South. Unlike supermarket grapes, which seem overbred and native to nowhere in particular, scuppernongs are unapologetically old-fashioned and literally rooted in the Carolinas.

Scuppernong grapes were already an old-time favorite of the native Americans when the Spanish explorers came , and their sweet juice was likely the basis of the very first wines made in this country.

Scuppernongs are not pretty by any stretch of the imagination. Ranging in color from green to bronze with random striations, they still have a wild look about them, like something taken from vines growing in profuse tangles in hedgerows and at the edges of sunny meadows.

Their flavor is similar to the northern Concord grape, but the skin of a scuppernong is thick, tough, and tart – a stark contrast to the lush, yielding sweetness of the inner pulp. Unlike the easy, thin-skinned varieties, when you eat a scuppernong, you know you’ve done something!

This salsa really wakes up the tastebuds with its mixture of sweet & savory flavors as well as tender & chewy textures. Use slightly firm peaches for this recipe; fully ripe ones will just dissolve in the stirring.

Here’s how to make the Southern Peach Scuppernong Salsa:

Ingredients:

1 cup seeded and quartered scuppernong grapes
2 medium peaches, peeled and chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 of a medium red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 of a large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1/2 of a medium Vidalia or other sweet onion, chopped
2 large jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
1 Tbsp lime juice
1/4 tsp salt (or more to taste)
Fresh ground black pepper to taste

PREPARATION:

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir gently. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 20 minutes. For an interesting variation, try adding a little fresh mint or tarragon, finely minced.

Looking for more delicious fruit salads to serve? You also won’t want to miss our recent food and cooking article, Fruit Salad Recipes and Ideas Perfect For a Party.
Enjoy!

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