How to Enjoy Apricots and Zucchini in August: Fresh Summer Recipes and Tips
Season: high summer Quick recipes 🥗 Anti-waste & tips Light preparations
Why choose apricots and zucchini in August?
August is the peak season for juicy apricots and crunchy zucchini . These two market stars are bursting with sunshine, at their best price and flavor. Whether sweet or savory, you can enjoy them to the fullest in ultra-simple or more creative recipes. Their freshness and lightness make them perfect allies for summer, especially when you're looking to eat healthy and delicious without the hassle. 🥗
Plus, cooking locally and seasonally is eco-friendly and often much tastier! Want to mix things up? Check out our tips for healthy cooking with an air fryer : perfect for roasting zucchini or apricots without turning on a traditional oven.
Ideas to delight you all summer long: simple recipes and winning combos
Fresh sweet and savory salads 🥗
Mix raw zucchini slices with apricot wedges , a little feta or mozzarella, fresh mint and a drizzle of olive oil. The acidity of the apricot enhances the sweetness of the zucchini!
Tian Express on the barbecue 🔥
Alternate slices of zucchini, apricot and tomato in a dish, drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme. Put on the barbecue or grill ( discover our BBQ selection ), it concentrates the flavors in a few minutes!
Vitamin smoothie blender 🥤
Blend apricot, raw zucchini, lemon juice, yogurt, and ice cubes. A fresh and sweet boost, ideal for breakfast. For even more speed, consider compact blenders that blend everything in no time.
Quick stir-fry and fruity dessert
Sauté finely diced zucchini with garlic and herbs, then serve alongside a warm apricot crumble. The perfect healthy treat to finish off a summer meal.
Stuck for ideas? Find new inspiration every week on Neary's Recipes of the Week page!
Conservation and anti-waste tips for summer
Leave them at room temperature until they're soft, then place them in the refrigerator (in the vegetable drawer) to stop them from ripening. Too ripe? Cut them in half and freeze them flat for smoothies or homemade compotes.
Wrap them in a clean cloth or bulk bag in the fridge. Don't wash before storage; this prevents moisture. Do you see any zucchini that's a little soft? Grate them and add them to a savory cake or pancake batter.
Organic zucchini peels can be mixed into gazpacho, while apricot kernels add flavor to compotes or jams (remove before consumption, of course).
Prepare jars of apricot compote or zucchini pickles. Perfect for saving time and avoiding waste, especially if you've stocked up at the market.
Smart and budget shopping tips
August is the best time to buy these fruits and vegetables: prices are low, and the quality is top-notch. Choose soft, fragrant apricots with unblemished skin. Zucchini should be firm, smooth, and small to medium (they are less waterlogged than larger ones). At the market, don't hesitate to ask for "jam" or "cooking" crates if you want to stock up, or for jars: often cheaper, perfect for compotes and ratatouilles.
To make your life easier and limit overheating in the kitchen, adapt your equipment: an air fryer or a smoothie blender allow you to cook quickly, healthily and without spending a fortune on energy.
Finally, don't forget to vary your cooking pleasures: zucchini can be grilled, grated, stuffed, apricots can be fried, blended or eaten plain. Also discover the new barbecue products for summer on Neary for convivial and economical meals ( see the barbecue collection ).
FAQ: Everything you need to know to make your summer recipes a success
Do you have to peel zucchini to eat it raw?
No, especially if it's organic! The skin is thin, full of fiber and vitamins. Wash it well, slice thinly, and enjoy it as a carpaccio or salad. For larger zucchini, you can remove every other strip to soften the texture.
How to prevent apricots from spoiling too quickly?
Don't put them directly in the refrigerator if they're still firm. Wait until they're ripe, then store them in the vegetable drawer. If they get too soft, cook them into compote, a pie, or freeze them for later.
Can you freeze raw zucchini and apricots?
Yes! Cut the apricots in half and freeze them flat, then store them in a bag. Zucchini can be grated or diced, blanched quickly, and frozen. It's handy for soups or cakes out of season.
What are some original combinations with apricots in savory cooking?
Apricots pair wonderfully with goat cheese, roast chicken, couscous, or even as a salsa with cilantro and lemon. Dare to add them to a quinoa salad or a summer pizza.
Any ideas for cooking quickly with little equipment?
An air fryer lets you grill zucchini or apricots in minutes. And with a blender, you can make smoothies, gazpachos, or sauces in a flash. Practical, affordable, and perfect for healthy summer meals!
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