How to make fresh apricot recipes a success: tips and benefits of the summer star 2024
Rich in vitamins C & A Low in calories Quick recipes Season: June to August
Fresh apricots, the sweetness of summer to bite into 🥗
Summer wouldn't really be summer without fresh apricots! Their sweet, tangy orange flesh brightens up the stalls as soon as the first fine days arrive. But did you know that this essential fruit of the sun, a favorite for desserts and healthy breaks, is also a wellness ally and a brilliant base for a thousand easy recipes?
In France, apricot season is in full swing between June and August. Want to take advantage of its nutritional qualities, delicate aroma, and ultra-versatile nature? This guide gives you all the tips and inspiration you need to make your fresh apricot recipes a success, from morning smoothies to amazing desserts for friends, including barbecues!
Ideas for serving fresh apricots in cooking
Apricots lend themselves to every craving, from the simplest to the most creative. Here's how to enjoy them, from breakfast to dinner:
In a healthy smoothie
Blended with yogurt, a dash of lemon, and a touch of honey, it becomes a smooth, energizing drink. For unique ideas, explore Neary's selection of smoothie blenders !
In a pan or in the oven
Roasted for a few minutes with a knob of butter and a touch of rosemary, the apricots reveal their full aroma. Serve them with a scoop of ice cream or on a slice of cream cheese.
Grilled on the barbecue 🔥
On the grill, the apricot caramelizes slightly and goes wonderfully with white meats, fish or veggie skewers. Discover more tips and recipes for summer in the Barbecue & Grill collection .
In a fruity or savory salad
Combine it with mint, feta, a few pistachios or cherry tomatoes: a guaranteed fresh effect!
As a quick dessert
Chopped apricots, a squeeze of lemon, a little whole sugar, and voilà, you're done. Got an air fryer? They roast in minutes for a light treat.
Compote or jam version
Blended briefly, they become a homemade compote to spread or slip into yogurt for a vitamin-packed snack.
For a change, you can find original recipes on Neary's Recipes of the Week !
Tips for successful fresh apricot recipes
Choose them ripe but firm
Apricots are fragile! Choose ones that are soft to the touch, fragrant, and free of brown spots. If they're too soft, they'll crumble when cooked. If they're too hard, they'll be bland.
Store them at room temperature
Let them ripen outside the refrigerator to preserve their aromas. Once ripe, consume them within two days or keep them refrigerated, but no longer.
For perfect cooking
In the oven, in a pan, or in an air fryer, watch carefully: a few minutes are enough for them to become soft without turning into a mush. A dash of honey or olive oil enhances them without masking their flavor.
Anti-waste tip 🥗
Overripe apricots? Blend them into a coulis or homemade ice cream. You can also add them to cake batter or make an energizing smoothie.
Buy well, store well: apricots and budget
In peak season, fresh apricots are easily found at markets, from small producers, or in supermarkets. Choose short supply chains, plastic-free trays, and French fruit to enjoy the best quality (and support the local industry!).
For those on a budget, consider bulk crates or "downgraded" fruit: perfect for homemade compotes and jams. As the season stretches on, prices drop, and you can even freeze leftovers after cutting them into chunks. A real off-season treat!
If you want to equip yourself for smart cooking, the air fryer and the smoothie blender are your best allies for quick and healthy recipes using apricots.
FAQ: Everything you need to know about fresh apricots
What are the nutritional benefits of fresh apricots?
Apricots are rich in beta-carotene (provitamin A), vitamin C, and fiber. They are also low in calories, hydrating, and a source of antioxidants, making them ideal for summer and post-workout recovery.
How do you know if an apricot is ripe?
It should be soft to the touch, very fragrant and bright orange in color. Avoid very hard (unripe) or too soft (already too ripe) fruit.
Can you freeze fresh apricots?
Yes! Cut them into quarters, remove the pit, and place them in an airtight bag. They'll keep their flavor for desserts, compotes, or smoothies all year round.
What savory dishes should you pair apricot with?
It pairs well with tagines, duck, poultry, and even summer barbecues. For inspiration, explore the Neary barbecue collection .
Any ideas for an original dessert?
Try honey-roasted apricots, a quick crumble, or a rustic tart. For more inspiration, check out Neary's Recipes of the Week .
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