Did you know that just 3 fresh apricots are enough to cover the daily requirement of beta-carotene? This fruit is not only delicious, but also a real health booster!
A natural mix of vitamins and fiber
Nutritionally, apricots are invaluable: rich in water, fiber and especially beta-carotene, the precursor to vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for healthy skin, bones, eyesight and to support our immune system.
That’s not all: apricots also contain vitamin C, which is useful for strengthening defenses and improving iron absorption.
Along with beta-carotene, they contribute other carotenoids such as alpha-carotene, gamma-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin, which have an important antioxidant function.
Fresh in summer, dehydrated in winter
The season for fresh apricots is from the end of May to July, varying by area and altitude. At this time, it is best to consume them fresh to take full advantage of their vitamin C content, which tends to be lost through dehydration.
During the colder months, however, dried apricots become an excellent alternative to continue taking beta-carotene, which resists the drying process.
How to enjoy them: sweet and savory ideas
Apricots are versatile and practical, perfect even outside the home. Here are some ideas for bringing them to the table:
Sweet version:
- Add them to homemade fruit salads, smoothies or ice cream
- Use them to make jams, cakes and spoon desserts
- Try them on a slice of toast with 100% hazelnut cream
- Also great for filling pancakes or crepes
Savory version:
- Cut into wedges in summer salads.
- Cubed into a colorful couscous or cold pasta
- In a grilled version: cut them in half, remove the core and cook them briefly on a hot griddle. You can stuff them in the hollow with:
- Hummus
- Spreadable cheeses (including vegetable)
- Whole dried fruit
- Herbs
They are also perfect for creating sweet-and-sour sauces or jams to pair with aged cheeses and savory dishes for an original summer appetizer.
Take advantage of their season!
Whether eaten natural, in sweet or savory versions, apricots deserve to take center stage in our diet when they are in season. Take advantage of them to bring to the table a fruit that is tasty, healthy and full of beneficial properties.
by dietitian Alessandra Zanini
Sources:
