Apricots, a relative of the peach, were part of the astronauts diet on the Apollo mission. Apricots growing season is only about 10 weeks and early summer (now!) is the best time to get fresh apricots.
Apricots are a great source of vitamin A - one fresh apricot has 18% of the USRDA of vitamin A. Three apricots actually constitute a serving and have only 50-60 calories.
Ripe apricots will be plump, soft to the touch, and have a golden orange color. Ripe apricots will only keep for about 2 days in the refrigerator, so they must be eaten quickly. Avoid buying fruit that is hard or greenish in color; it may never ripen.
Because apricots spoil so quickly many people can their apricots, dry them, or turn them into jam.
Apricots are delicious grilled or poached (in fruit juice), but only cook them a short time - under 10 minutes - overcooked apricots can lose their flavor.
-Source: Wellness Encyclopedia of Food and Nutrition
-Source: Dole Five a Day
