A sweeter stone

Stone fruit season in California is glorious, and apricots are some of the first to appear. Look for blushing orange fruits with a distinct fragrance. If they don't smell inviting, they probably don't taste good either. Apricots pit easily, so they make easy fillings for pies and tarts, tossed with brown sugar, a splash of vanilla and a surprisingly nice addition of fresh thyme or basil. If you're grilling for dinner, brush apricot halves with oil and lightly grill them as well. Serve alongside meat or chop them with onion and chiles to make a fruity salsa.