Q: I’ve seen Pluots at my grocery store. Can you tell me something about this fruit?

A: Pluots are hybrid fruits developed in California. At least 20 varieties exist; they're made up of approximately 70 percent plum parentage and 30 percent apricot. Pluot skins are smooth like plum skins and may be solid, striped or speckled. The color of the flesh and skin differs according to the variety. Pluots can be used like plums in tarts, pies and other desserts, or eaten out of hand. They're usually slightly sweeter and more intensely flavored than either plums or apricots.