ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction:
In regions around the world where people live well into their 100s, like in the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, a common ingredient in their diets is the humble apricot—specifically, its dried form. These dried fruits are packed with nutrients that contribute to longevity, promote heart health, and help prevent chronic diseases like cancer. If you're looking for a simple yet powerful food to incorporate into your daily routine, dried apricots might be your key to living a longer, healthier life.
In this article, we'll explore how dried apricots can become a star in your diet, and provide some delicious recipes and tips for including them in your meals. Ready to live longer and healthier? Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
1 cup dried apricots (unsweetened, organic if possible)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
A pinch of sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
½ cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts for added texture)
½ cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
Instructions:
Prepare the Apricots: If your dried apricots are very dry, soak them in warm water for 20-30 minutes to rehydrate them. Once softened, drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Cut the Apricots: Slice the apricots into halves or quarters, depending on your texture preference. If you like, you can also chop them finely for easier incorporation into snacks or meals.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apricots, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. The lemon juice helps preserve the color of the apricots and enhances their natural flavor.
Add Nuts and Coconut: Sprinkle in the chopped nuts and coconut flakes, mixing them into the apricot mixture.
Let it Sit: Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together. If you're storing the apricots for later, place them in an airtight container.
Serve: Serve immediately as a healthy snack, or use them as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or salads.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestion: Dried apricots make an excellent addition to a breakfast bowl. Add them to your oatmeal, quinoa, or yogurt for a sweet, nutrient-packed start to the day. They can also be served as a snack paired with cheese or nuts for a satisfying treat.
Storage: Store your dried apricots in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for up to 2 weeks. If you make a large batch, consider refrigerating them to extend freshness.
Make Ahead: If you're meal prepping, dried apricots can be prepared ahead of time and stored in individual snack-sized portions for an easy grab-and-go option throughout the week.
Variants:
ADVERTISEMENT
