Saturday, April 3, 2010

The Little Golden Apple


It's Apricot Season!

According to Greek mythology, the Hesperides were three beautiful nymphs who guarded the legendary Golden Apple tree the goddess Hera received as wedding a gift from Gaia (the Earth). Greek historians believe the apricot is the “golden apple.”

The apricot (Prunus armeniaca), is the native fruit of Armenia. The little velvet treat is a relative of the peach whose season is summer.

The apricot originated thousands of years ago in China, where they still grow wild in the mountains. Delicately flavored, this pale orangish fruit traveled west on camel caravans to the Mediterranean, where it was planted and flourished. Spanish explorers introduced apricots to California in the 18th century.

This tiny soft fruit is packed with potassium and vitamins C and A (beta-carotene). Beta-carotene is good for the skin, hair, gums, and glands. It builds bone and teeth. Apricots are also a good source of fiber.

Apricots are delicious as a quick snack – fresh or dried.

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