When it comes to sweet and savory dishes, dried apricots are a versatile ingredient that can elevate many recipes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a show-stopping dessert, these chewy fruits have got you covered. With their sweet-tart flavor and soft texture, dried apricots pair well with a variety of ingredients, from nuts to cheeses to meats.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious dried apricot recipes that are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. From sweet treats like apricot and almond energy bites and apricot and coconut granola bars, to savory dishes like Moroccan chicken with dried apricots and apricot glazed pork tenderloin, there’s something for everyone.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of delicious dried apricot recipes!
Apricot and Almond Energy Bites
Boost your energy levels with these wholesome bites packed with apricots, almonds, and oats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, apricots, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add the honey-peanut butter mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 bites.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready to go as soon as they’re formed.
Moroccan Chicken with Dried Apricots
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Morocco with the natural sweetness of dried apricots, resulting in a dish that is both exotic and comforting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and top with chopped apricots, chicken broth, and honey.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the apricots are rehydrated and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Apricot and Walnut Bread
This Dried Apricot and Walnut Bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of dried apricots with the earthy flavor of walnuts, creating a delightful breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the chopped apricots and walnuts to the wet ingredients. Mix well.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Pour into prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin
A sweet and savory glaze elevates this pork tenderloin dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The apricot glaze adds a tangy and fruity twist to the rich flavor of the pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup apricot preserves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Brush the apricot glaze all over the pork tenderloin.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Dried Apricot Chutney
Spiced Dried Apricot Chutney Recipe
This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect for snacking, using as a condiment, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. Made with dried apricots, warm spices, and a hint of citrus, this recipe is easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dried apricots, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, grated ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened and the apricots are rehydrated.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot and Coconut Granola Bars
Get ready to start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast or snack! These apricot and coconut granola bars are the perfect blend of crunchy, chewy, and tangy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, apricots, coconut, and pecans (if using).
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over low heat until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Apricot Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet twist on traditional French toast by filling it with tender apricots and crunchy pecans. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and melted butter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix chopped apricots, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, spread about 1 tablespoon of the apricot mixture onto each slice.
7. Top with chopped pecans and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apricot and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh apricots, sliced
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apricot slices in a single layer, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Crumble goat cheese over the apricots.
5. Drizzle honey and olive oil over the tart.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold edges of puff pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until puff pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Apricot and Pistachio Biscotti
Elevate your biscotti game with the sweet and nutty combination of dried apricots and pistachios. These crunchy treats are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped apricots and pistachios.
6. Divide dough into 2 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
9. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C). Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices.
10. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Apricot and Ginger Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory glazed salmon recipe combines the natural flavors of apricots and ginger to create a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, grated ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apricot and Rosemary Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of apricots with the herbaceousness of rosemary. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cups mixed apricots, chopped
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped apricots, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and place it in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot and Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apricots, perfect for a snack or dessert. With only 8 ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped apricots and cinnamon; mix well.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apricot and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory Apricot and Brie Grilled Cheese recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of caramelized apricots (see note)
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Unsalted butter, for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread the softened brie cheese on top of the bread.
5. Add the caramelized apricots and drizzle with honey.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Note: To caramelize apricots, heat 1/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of fresh apricot slices and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Apricot and Pecan Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms. The combination of caramelized apricots, crunchy pecans, and earthy mushrooms is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh apricots, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced apricots and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the apricot mixture, topping with chopped pecans.
4. Drizzle the honey over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apricot and Carrot Soup
This sweet and savory soup is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a comforting snack. The combination of apricots, carrots, and spices creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh apricots
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped apricots, carrot, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apricot and Dark Chocolate Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of dark chocolate with the tanginess of dried apricots, creating a unique and delicious flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, butter, and apricots until well combined.
3. Add the honey and salt to the apricot mixture; stir until smooth.
4. Fold the apricot mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required, as these truffles are best served chilled.
Apricot and Basil Quinoa Salad
A sweet and savory quinoa salad that combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup diced fresh apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apricots, and chopped basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apricot and Orange Glazed Ham
This apricot and orange glazed ham recipe combines the sweetness of dried apricots with the tanginess of orange marmalade, resulting in a deliciously flavorful and visually appealing main course. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apricots, orange marmalade, and honey.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan and brush with Dijon mustard and olive oil.
5. Spread the apricot mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Looking for inspiration in the kitchen? Look no further! This article features 18 delicious recipes that showcase the sweet and tangy flavor of dried apricots. From savory dishes like Moroccan Chicken with Dried Apricots to sweet treats like Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Apricot and Almond Energy Bites or Spiced Dried Apricot Chutney for a flavorful snack. Or, go sweet with Apricot and Coconut Granola Bars or Apricot and Dark Chocolate Truffles. Whatever you choose, get ready to indulge in the delightful taste of dried apricots!
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