Apricot
Prunus armeniacaClinical Encyclopedia
Apricot provides 48 kcal, 1.4g of protein, 11.1g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.
Apricots are small, orange fruits that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are known for their sweet flavor and are often consumed fresh or dried.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Best enjoyed fresh, but can also be dried, cooked, or added to salads and desserts.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose apricots that are slightly soft to the touch and have a vibrant orange color without blemishes.
Store unripe apricots at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerate to extend freshness.
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Apricot Quinoa Salad
A refreshing salad combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and a zesty lemon dressing.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup diced fresh apricots
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced apricots, sliced almonds, and chopped mint.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine before serving.
Apricot Chia Seed Pudding
A creamy and nutritious chia seed pudding infused with apricot puree, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup pureed apricots
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1. In a bowl, mix almond milk, chia seeds, apricot puree, honey, and vanilla extract.
- 2. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- 3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Grilled Apricot and Chicken Skewers
Juicy chicken marinated in herbs and grilled with sweet apricots for a delightful summer dish.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup halved apricots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- 2. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Thread the marinated chicken and apricots onto skewers and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Apricot Oatmeal Energy Balls
No-bake energy balls made with oats, apricots, and nuts, perfect for a quick and healthy snack.
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped apricots, almond butter, honey, walnuts, and cinnamon.
- 2. Mix until well combined, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- 3. Roll the mixture into small balls and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Apricot and Spinach Smoothie
A vibrant green smoothie packed with nutrients, featuring apricots and fresh spinach for a deliciously healthy drink.
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup diced apricots
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds
- 1. In a blender, combine spinach, apricots, banana, almond milk, and flaxseeds.
- 2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Apricot and Greek Yogurt Parfait
A layered parfait with creamy Greek yogurt, fresh apricots, and crunchy granola for a wholesome breakfast.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup diced apricots
- 1/2 cup granola
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with honey and vanilla extract.
- 2. In a glass, layer yogurt, diced apricots, and granola alternately.
- 3. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, then serve immediately.
Apricot and Almond Butter Toast
A simple yet delicious toast topped with almond butter and fresh apricot slices, perfect for a quick breakfast.
- 2 slices whole grain bread
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
- 1 cup sliced fresh apricots
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
- 2. Spread almond butter evenly on each slice.
- 3. Top with sliced apricots and sprinkle with chia seeds before serving.
Apricot Salsa with Grilled Fish
A zesty apricot salsa that pairs perfectly with grilled fish, adding a burst of flavor and freshness.
- 1 cup diced apricots
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine diced apricots, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
- 2. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 3. Serve over grilled fish for a delicious meal.
Apricot Coconut Energy Bars
Homemade energy bars made with apricots, coconut, and nuts, perfect for a healthy snack on-the-go.
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1. In a food processor, combine dried apricots, shredded coconut, almonds, honey, and almond flour.
- 2. Pulse until the mixture is sticky and well combined.
- 3. Press the mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate for 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Apricot and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and healthy curry featuring chickpeas and apricots, served over brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 cup diced apricots
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- 2. Add chickpeas, apricots, coconut milk, curry powder, and salt.
- 3. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then serve over cooked brown rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are apricots good for weight loss?
Yes, apricots are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management.
Can I eat apricots if I have diabetes?
In moderation, apricots can be included in a diabetic diet due to their low glycemic index.
How should I store fresh apricots?
Store fresh apricots in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness, ideally in a breathable container.
What nutrients are in apricots?
Apricots are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium and dietary fiber.
Can I eat apricot pits?
Apricot pits contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized; they should not be consumed.
Are dried apricots healthy?
Yes, dried apricots are nutrient-dense but should be consumed in moderation due to higher sugar concentration.
What are the health benefits of apricot oil?
Apricot oil is known for its moisturizing properties and is often used in skincare.
Can apricots help with digestion?
Yes, the fiber in apricots aids in digestion and promotes regular bowel movements.