It’s Citrus Season!

Add some zest to your fall and winter with citrus fruit! The prime harvest time for many citrus fruits is between the months of November to March. Enjoy a “burst of sunshine” during these cold, chilly months, and include some citrus fruits into your day! 

Citrus fruits are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors! In addition to their refreshing flavor and bright appearance, citrus fruits are also packed with antioxidants and an excellent source of Vitamin C, which important for your immune system.  These fruits also contain folate, an essential B vitamin, and fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.

Many popular citrus fruits include Navel oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, lemons, and limes! Next time you’re at the farmers market or grocery store, try something new like, Cara Cara oranges, blood oranges, kumquats, or pomelos!

What are some ways you can include citrus into your next meal?

• Create a vibrant salad! Add some color to your salad with oranges or grapefruits!  Mixed greens, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, and grapefruit topped with your favorite dressing can make for an easy and healthy lunch. Visit the CNS blog for more tips on how to create a nutritious and delicious salad.
• Juice it! Squeeze your own 100% fruit juice as a fun activity for the whole family. Also try freezing 100% fruit juice of your choice in ice trays for a tasty, frozen fruit treat!
• Marinate to perfection! Citrus fruits make a great addition to marinades for meats and vegetables.  The acidity from the citrus makes meat tender and juicy. Lemon and lime juice, in particular, can be squeezed atop vegetables to provide a zesty and refreshing flavor.  Here is a recipe from the USDA on citrus vegetables.
• Brighten your morning routine! Combine a variety of your favorite citrus fruits to make a compote perfect to go on top of pancakes, waffles, or plain yogurt. It’s a wonderful way add some sweetness to your morning!  Be sure to check out this compote recipe idea!

For more information, check out https://www.healthyeating.org/Healthy-Eating/All-Star-Foods/Fruits/Article-Viewer/Article/204/Health-Benefits-of-Citrus-Fruit