U-pick Apricots at D & L Acres and an Apricot Smoothie
Apricot Smoothie
I must be on a roll… I can’t believe that I just enjoyed two consecutive days off. On my first day off, I did pretty much nothing. Two afternoon naps, dinner out at one of our favorite restaurants and then I went to bed early and slept for another twelve hours. I never sleep that much. 8 hours max. There was no doubt, I really needed the sleep.
Today I woke up cheery and refreshed. I felt like my normal self again. What was even better is that today was U-Pick apricot day at D & L Acres. D & L Acres is one of the only U-Pick apricot orchards here in Southern Oregon. D & L is open for business from mid July to early August and I have to tell you, their apricots are absolutely fantastic! I was so excited as I grabbed my camera, my bucket, and headed out to the orchard. I knew that I was in for a real treat!
A view of the front orchard. This orchard has been picked through… In the back orchard, that was another story.
In the back orchard, the trees were totally loaded with apricots. So loaded, that some of the branches were broken on the trees because of the heavy fruit. This year was a good year. Tons of bright orange apricots, sweet and juicy!
These apricots were so ripe that if you just touched them, they would fall off the tree. I knew that once I got these apricots home, they would not last long. I had to process them immediately.
And a handful of apricots! Orange color with a pink blush. These are called Tilton apricots. They are perfect for canning, freezing or drying. They also have a heart like shape similar to a peach. They’re also great blended up in a smoothie.
As soon as I got home, I whipped out my new blender. I knew exactly what I was going to do with them. Sweet creamy smoothies for Bruce and I. Oh, and I have to tell you that they sure were delicious!
Thank you Janie and Brian for the apricots! If you are looking for apricots in the Southern Oregon area, be sure to look up D & L Acres. D & L Acres is located at 5225 Fern Valley Road in Medford, Oregon. Call for apricot availability before heading out. The apricot season is short, and in my opinion, the apricots at D & L acres are awesome. Their phone number is (541) 535 – 2901. Be sure to tell them that I sent you! Enjoy! Tessa
Ingredients:
- 3 – 4 large pitted apricots
- 3/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup apple juice
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 or 2 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend on high speed until smooth. Serve immediately. Makes one serving.
