Grow sweet success: Apricots in colder climates made easy
Apricot trees may not be ideally suited for our climate, but it depends on the variety. They were once common in nearly every garden but rarely produced fruit due to April and May frosts that damaged the blooms. However, by selecting the right variety and providing optimal growing conditions, you can also enjoy delicious apricots.
If you're considering planting an apricot tree in your garden, select a variety that is resistant to colder temperatures. Gardening stores offer trees that bloom later and show increased resistance to frost and diseases. It's a good idea to plant two different varieties next to each other.
This is how apricots affect the body
Apricots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in the body. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes and skin. But that's not all the benefits of this underrated relative of the peach. The fruit is also a rich source of potassium, which helps maintain proper blood pressure. Additionally, fiber supports digestion, and antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
While apricots contain a significant amount of sugar (about 9-10 grams per 100 grams of fruit), they have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people with type 2 diabetes. This is because they primarily contain fructose, a type of sugar that is metabolized in the liver and doesn't significantly impact blood glucose levels. Furthermore, fresh apricots are high in water content, which slows the release of sugars in the body.
How to eat apricots to get the most out of them?
Apricots, like many other fruits, are best consumed with their skin on due to their high fiber content. Juices made with a slow juicer, purées, or jams with added sugar are less healthy options. When it comes to juices, all the best parts end up in the waste. However, homemade preserves can be a great way to utilize excess fruit, but be sure to limit the sugar.
It's a brilliant idea to pair apricots with yogurt and nuts, as the fat in these foods enhances the absorption of vitamin A. Chopping and mixing them with oatmeal or homemade granola is another healthy choice that doesn't cause an insulin spike.
Apricots are not just for desserts or sweet breakfasts. They also pair well with savory salads, such as those featuring young spinach leaves, arugula, nuts, feta cheese, or prosciutto.
Salad with grilled apricot and prosciutto
Optionally, you can add feta or another Balkan cheese to this salad. Grill the apricots using a traditional grill, a grill pan, or in an oven with a grill function.
Ingredients (for 2 people):
- 4 ripe apricots, halved and pitted,
- 2 handfuls of arugula,
- 6-8 slices of prosciutto,
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil,
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste,
- 1 teaspoon of honey,
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
- Drizzle the apricot halves with a bit of olive oil and place them cut-side down on a grill, grill pan, or in an oven (with a grill function). Grill for about 2-3 minutes, until they develop grill marks and soften slightly. Set them aside to cool.
- Arrange the arugula on a plate. Place the grilled apricots and rolled prosciutto slices on top.
- In a cup, mix olive oil with honey, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle the salad with this dressing.
