Apricot allure: Growing tips and health perks in Canada
Apricot trees might not be the best suited for our climate, although it depends on the variety. They were once common in many gardens but rarely bore fruit due to frosts in April and May that destroyed the fruit. However, by selecting the right variety and ensuring optimal growth conditions, you can also enjoy delicious apricots in Canada.
If you want to plant an apricot tree in your garden, choose a variety resistant to colder temperatures. Gardening stores offer trees that bloom later or show greater resistance to frost and diseases. It's a good idea to plant two different varieties next to each other.
How apricots affect the body
Apricots are a valuable source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining eye health and skin condition. But that's not all the benefits of this underrated cousin of the peach. The fruit is also a valuable source of potassium, which helps maintain proper blood pressure. Fibre supports digestion, and antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Although apricots contain a large amount of sugar (approximately 9-10 grams per 100 grams), they also have a low glycemic index, making them safe for people with type 2 diabetes. This is because they primarily contain fructose, which is metabolized in the liver and doesn't significantly affect blood glucose levels. Furthermore, fresh apricots are full of water, which contributes to the slower release of sugars in the body.
How to eat apricots to get the most out of them?
Apricots, like many other fruits, should be consumed with the skin on due to the fibre they contain. Juices made with a slow juicer, purees, or jams with added sugar are less healthy options. In the case of juices, the most nutritious parts often end up in the waste. However, homemade preserves are a great way to use up excess fruit, but only if you limit the amount of sugar.
An excellent idea is to combine apricots with yogurt and nuts, as the fat in these products enhances the absorption of vitamin A. Chopped and mixed with oatmeal or homemade granola, apricots are also a healthy option that won't cause an insulin spike.
But it's not just desserts or sweet breakfasts that allow you to make use of these fruits. Apricots are also fantastic in savoury salads, for instance, with young spinach leaves, arugula, nuts, feta cheese, or prosciutto.
Salad with grilled apricot and prosciutto
Optionally, add feta cheese or another Balkan brine cheese to the salad. Grill the apricots using a traditional grill, a grill pan, or in the 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 have developed characteristic stripes and have softened slightly. Set aside to cool.
- Arrange the arugula on a plate. Place the grilled apricots and the 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.
