The New York Apple Association has added a series of new recipes to its 300-plus collection on its website.
Kicking off the fresh batch is New York Apple Salsa as a standalone dipping dish or incorporated into NYAA’s Grilled Salmon with Apple Salsa and Stuffed Avocado with Apple Salsa recipes.
“The list of ingredients may be small, but this recipe packs ‘The Big Flavor,’” Cynthia Haskins, NYAA president and CEO, said in a news release. “It calls for New York apples, ripe tomatoes, red onion, red or green bell pepper, jalapeno, lime juice and cilantro.”
The association has teamed with chef Diane Vair to develop the new recipes and provide food styling expertise for its video production and photography sessions, the release said. NYAA said it plans to feature a new recipe each month, starting with a launch on Cinco de Mayo. Some of the recipes in the new lineup include Pork and Apple Tacos; Shrimp, Apple and Avocado Salad; Apple, Turkey and Feta Burger; and Apple Pancakes with Maple Apple Sauce.
NYAA said it has been crafting new recipes, printing updated recipe cards and debuting the new variety guide — a 12-page booklet showcasing images of New York apple varieties alongside their flavor profiles and accompanying recipes. The resources are available to retailers year-round as part of the association’s custom marketing program.
The variety guide and recipe cards align with the apple variety price cards — semigloss signage designed for retail stores to display apple variety information and pricing, the release said. Additionally, these materials complement the single-unit display shippers provided to retail partners, according to NYAA.
As part of a recently announced grassroots social media initiative, New York apple growers will share recipes, snacking ideas and glimpses into their unique stories and behind-the-scenes efforts. The effort mobilizes over 500 apple growers across the state, encouraging them to create engaging content that highlights the heritage, meticulous care and superior taste of New York apples.
By sharing their passion, growers not only foster a direct and personal connection with consumers but also elevate appreciation for the exceptional flavor of New York apples and apple recipes, the association said.
“New York State is fortunate to grow apples with ‘The Big Flavor,’ perfect for grabbing a snack on the go, adding slices to salads or sandwiches or pairing for a healthy treat,” Haskins said.
Cinco de Mayo, synonymous with bold flavors and vibrant celebrations, serves as an ideal stage for showcasing ‘The Big Flavor’ of New York apples on social media, according to NYAA.
“Cinco de Mayo is all about great food, lively gatherings and bold, flavorful bites, and New York apple growers have plenty of promotable apple varieties ready for spring and summer promotions,” Haskins said.
By combining the superior flavor of New York apples with creative recipes and engaging storytelling from local growers, NYAA said it continues to strengthen its bond with consumers. As the first recipe, New York Apple Salsa, takes center stage this Cinco de Mayo, the association sets the tone for a year filled with culinary inspiration, bold flavors and the undeniable charm of New York’s apple heritage including apple blossom time, the release said.
NYAA reports that this Cinco de Mayo will be greeted with apple blossoms. Reporting to be a few days ahead of this year, apple blossoms recently began in the state’s Hudson Valley and are expected to happen for western New York and central upper New York this week, followed by northeastern New York.