The best recipes and tips for enjoying seasonal apricots in August
Seasonal fruits Dessert & savory ideas Conservation tips Smart budget
August is the month when apricots reach their peak. Their juicy flesh, velvety skin, and delicately sweet aroma brighten markets and kitchens. Whether you enjoy them by the bite or enjoy cooking them, seasonal apricots are an inexhaustible source of inspiration for fresh, healthy, and delicious recipes. In this guide, discover how to enhance this golden fruit, from appetizers to desserts, not to mention the best storage tips and smart shopping tips. Ready to awaken your taste buds? 🥗
How to enjoy apricots in August: delicious and original ideas
Fresh apricots are incredibly versatile: they work well in both sweet and savory recipes. If you're looking for something different, here are some ideas for enjoying their tangy sweetness:
Sweet version: desserts & snacks
- Rustic tart : Halved apricots with a hint of honey and flaked almonds on homemade pastry. Simple, quick, and guaranteed to wow!
- Instant compote : sauté the apricots with a little vanilla and a squeeze of lemon. Perfect with natural yogurt or to add to a homemade smoothie .
- Summer fruit salad : Combines apricots, peaches, and a few mint leaves. For extra freshness, add a few crushed ice cubes before serving.
- Oven-roasted apricots : a quick dessert! Arrange your fruit in a dish, add a little cane sugar, and bake for a few minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
In a savory version: dare to try unexpected combinations
- Apricot, arugula & feta salad : the sweetness of the fruit complements the saltiness of the cheese. A drizzle of olive oil, a few sunflower seeds, and you're done!
- Barbecue skewers : Alternate fresh apricots with marinated chicken pieces for a sweet and savory touch that will wow your guests. Find more ideas in our barbecue & grill selection! 🔥
- Express chutney : cook apricots with a little vinegar, ginger and sugar for a homemade sauce that goes perfectly with goat cheese or cold meats.
- Veggie sandwich : slice ripe apricots and slip them into a grain bread with cream cheese, spinach shoots and some crushed hazelnuts.
If you're curious to try other creations, take a look at Recipes of the Week : every week, fresh ideas to delight you all summer long!
Tips for perfect apricots 🥗
Choose fruit that is soft to the touch, with smooth skin and no brown spots. A seasonal apricot should smell good even before you bite into it!
Keep them at room temperature to finish ripening, then place them in the refrigerator if you're not eating them right away. Take them out an hour before eating: their flavor will be more intense.
If your apricots are a little firm, fry them in a pan with a knob of butter and a touch of honey. Their texture will become melting and ideal for filling a tart or coating a panna cotta.
Wash, slice, and pit the apricots, then freeze them flat on a baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a bag: you can use them later in compote, smoothie, or crumble, without losing any flavor.
Consider grilling them for a few minutes on the griddle or in an air fryer ( see our comparison ): their natural sugar will caramelize on the surface, a real treat with cheese or white meat!
Mix apricots, yogurt, a touch of agave syrup, and a few ice cubes in your blender. If you're looking for a powerful blender, our selection of smoothie blenders should inspire you!
Buy well and optimize your budget
Seasonal apricots are more affordable in August, especially if you shop at markets, local producers' baskets, or direct sales. Don't hesitate to choose slightly marked fruits—they're often less expensive and perfect for cooking!
Also remember to compare prices according to usage: for jam or compote, "second choice" apricots are ideal. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals: sometimes, low-budget lots are hidden at the end of the market.
Need a little inspiration to mix things up? Come and get some ideas from our weekly recipes section : you'll find simple, economical, and zesty recipes for the whole family.
FAQ about seasonal apricots
How do you know if an apricot is ripe?
It should be soft to the touch and give off a sweet aroma. Its skin should be uniform and free of brown spots. Avoid fruit that is too hard or very green: they may lack flavor even after ripening.
Can you eat the skin of apricots?
Yes! The skin is edible and rich in nutrients. Wash them well under water, especially if you don't have organic fruit. You can also peel them if you prefer a smoother texture in your compotes or smoothies.
Can you freeze fresh apricots?
Absolutely! Cut them, pit them, then freeze them flat before bagging them. You can then use them in preparations all year round, without losing any flavor.
What to do with overripe apricots?
Turn them into compote, jam, or smoothie! They're also delicious roasted in the oven or added to cake mixes.
Any ideas for cooking salted apricots?
Dare to pair them with white meats (chicken, turkey), goat cheese, feta, or in fresh salads. Also try grilling them on the barbecue for an irresistible caramelized effect!
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