A new kind of fruit has been appearing in markets. The pluot, a cross of plum and apricot, comes in several varieties, like Flavor King, Emerald Beaut, Flavor Rich, and Dapple Dandy (or Dinosaur Egg). They look like large speckled plums with unusual colors. Depending on the variety, the skin can be purplish black, reddishpink, or gold, and the flesh can range from red to yellow. Pluots usually taste more like a plum with a hint of apricot, but each variety exhibits a different combination of these flavors. Pluots are ripe when they’re fragrant and yield to gentle pressure. They bruise easily and should be handled with care. Eat them alone or in a fresh fruit salad like Apricots with Moscato & Thyme Syrup.