Although apricots are considered a super-food they are often times the least enjoyed readily available fruit for most families. If you have not tried apricots in some of your recipes, it’s time you did.
These little pocket sized gems grow on trees and the skin comes in differing shades of yellow and pink. Although there are usually a few varieties available for purchase, they all offer the same punch of health benefits. The U.S., France, Turkey, Russia, Spain and Greece are the primary producers of apricots today. In North America they are grown in the sunny orchards of California and their growing season runs May through August.
If you are dieting, look to the small but mighty apricot for help – they are very low in calories. Three apricots can be very filling to the stomach but kind to your weight at only 50 calories total!
Apricots can be enjoyed raw by themselves or dried and eaten as a healthy snack. They can also be mixed (raw or dried) into a recipe with other healthy ingredients.
Apricot kernels (the seeds from the apricots) have become a very popular snack. These nut-like seeds offer a special, little known nutrient, Vitamin 17. This vitamin has been linked to cancer prevention and is also beneficial for lowering blood pressure. You can enjoy these kernels just like you would an almond or grate them into salads and other dishes that you normally use seeds or nuts for. However, be aware that doses higher than ¼ cup can actually be toxic. So limit your daily intake to no more than 8 kernels. Make sure to choose the highest quality raw, organic and non-GMO. Using your own kernels is not advised due to the risk of pesticides and toxins.
Health Benefits
Heart Health – Cardiovascular health and heart disease prevention all benefits from the beta carotene found in apricots. These golden fuzzy fruits also help to detoxify the blood.
High in Antioxidants – Apricots provide 20% of the daily value of vitamins A and C per serving.
Rich with fiber – Great for maintaining a healthy weight. Apricots help with digestion, balancing the metabolism and also play an important role in colon health.
Eye Health – Carotenoids along with vitamin A help to protect and strengthen the eyes.
For recipes that promote health and eliminate gluten, sugar, white flour and unhealthy fats, check out “Healthy Raw Snacks.” You’ll find 100 raw snack and treat recipes that promote health not subtract from it. They are delicious and sure to delight your whole family.
Apricot Squares 
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1 cup cashews
- ½ cup desiccated coconut
- Place all ingredients in a food processor and blend until the ingredients are well
- combined and mixture begins to stick together.
- Press mixture into a 9” square pan
- or dish and place in fridge for a couple of hours to firm up.
- Cut into squares.
- Store in refrigerator.
- Enjoy!
