It’s winter time here in the North East and Mid-Atlantic regions which means it’s prime time for winter citrus. The produce section may seem uninspiring during the cold, winter months but Secret Ingredient is here to encourage you to take a closer look at the fresh citrus. Most citrus fruits ripen to their sweetest and juiciest during winter, bringing a burst of sunshine to your local farmers’ markets and grocery stores.
Citrus fruits can be grown on trees or shrubs usually in tropical or subtropical regions. There are many varieties with the most common being lemons, limes, oranges, clementines and grapefruits. Citrus fruits are notable for their fragrance and juice. The juices of these fruits are high in acidity and sharp in flavor. These fruits can be eaten fresh, pressed for their juice, or preserved in marmalades. One of the characteristics that makes citrus most appealing to consumers in the winter months is their high dose of vitamin C and other health benefits.
Prime Time for Winter Citrus and their Health Benefits!
- Citrus is an excellent source of vitamin C which helps to strengthen your immune system, which is extremely important during the pandemic.
- They contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that are great for skin health.
- Citrus fruits are a good source of fiber which is important for digestive health and aiding in weight loss.
- They are low in calories but are a good snack because they help you feel full.
- Citrus fruits and juices lower your risk of kidney stones. They are a natural alternative to potassium citrate supplements.
- They are believed to protect against cancer.
- Citrus contains flavonoids which are believed to have capabilities to prevent Alzhiemer’s and Parkinson’s.
Now let’s explore some of Secret Ingredient’s favorite citrus fruits and the wonderful recipes we enjoy them in.
Prime Time for Lemons
Any chef will tell you that lemons are a kitchen staple. The most sour of the citrus family, lemons are great in dressings, marinades and desserts. Lemons and their juice are often used when cooking fish. This Spice Rubbed Salmon with Lemon, Garlic and Spinach dish uses both lemon juice and zest to create a lovely sauce for the salmon and spinach.
Prime Time for Oranges
These days there are such a plethora of oranges in the grocery stores it can be overwhelming deciding which variety to choose. From Cara Cara to Navel, oranges add a fresh burst of flavor to any dish. We love this bright Carrot Orange Soup. The sweetness of the carrots, with the juice of the orange, makes this soup a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy. Feel free to add some pumpkin seeds or croutons for a topping.
Blood oranges show up every winter with their signature reddish peel, brilliant color, and sweet, intense flavor. We love these thirst quenching Blood Orange Margaritas that will have you dreaming of the warmer weather. They are simple to prepare with 1 quart blood orange juice (or other orange juice), 1 1/2 cups lime juice (prime time for winter citrus), 1 1/2 cups Triple Sec, 3 1/2 cups Silver Tequila, thin blood orange slices, Kosher salt and mint or sage leaves for garnish.
Prime Time for Clementines
A member of the mandarin family, clementines are widely popular because they are easy to peel and seedless. They are the perfect healthy, sweet snack and make great additions to salads and desserts. Speaking of desserts, this Clementine Cake from NY Times is to die for. The recipe calls for the use of the whole clementine which makes a rich citrus flavor.
Photo: Sasha Maslov for The New York Times
Prime Time for Grapefruits
Whether you choose the pink, red, or white variety, you’re in for a juicy, sweet-tart treat. Cooking Light’s Grapefruit, Endive and Arugula Salad, is bright and healthy. The sweet, tart grapefruit segments and juice (used in the dressing) help to balance the bitter endives. It is truly a beautiful cacophony of flavors.
Photo: Jennifer Causey
Burst of Sunshine
If we haven’t added a burst of sunshine to your winter doldrums with these citrus recipes maybe a virtual cooking class will. Secret Ingredient Personal Chef Service is now offering virtual cooking demonstration classes that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. Spend an evening with friends or family, while learning some new culinary skills and creating new recipes via Zoom. Contact Secret Ingredient for pricing and schedule your virtual class.
Secret Ingredient can also help you add more winter citrus to your diet. Contact us to learn more about our personal chef services. We have resumed cooking in our clients homes and are strictly following all current CDC guidelines.
Cheers
