The fresh berries have diminished from the produce aisle and farmers markets and the citrus fruits are starting to come into season. Citrus fruits include grapefruit, oranges, mandarin oranges, lemons; limes and are at their peak of availability during the winter season. Many growers are located in California and Florida; however, some fruits might be from out of the country. To find out where the fruit originates, look at the small sticker label.
Oranges are high in fiber if we eat the whole fruit and rich in vitamin C. Grapefruits give us the additional benefit of Vitamin A.
To determine if citrus fruit is at its peak, gently but firmly squeeze the fruit. The fruit should give slightly but not be mushy. Additionally, feel the fruit for soft spots that could indicate rot. The fruit should also not feel dry or hard, which indicates it is probably past its prime.
Here are a few tips about each of the citrus fruits:
Oranges: Oranges are the most widely grown fruit in the world and hundreds of varieties exist. In the USA, seedless navel oranges are the most popular. Later in the season, seedless Valencia oranges are more common. Even though markets are dominated by these two types, others are available, including Cara Cara navel and blood oranges. Their flesh colors are dark pink. Blood oranges are popular in the Mediterranean and are considered by many to produce the best juice. Cara Cara oranges were discovered in Venezuela and are the result of a cross between two strains of navel oranges. They are known for their sweet, low acid flavor. Choose oranges with firm, smooth skins and those that are heavy for their size. Store at room temperature for 1-2 days and refrigerate for 1-2 weeks.
Grapefruit: Grapefruit is a result of a natural cross between pomelo and mandarin orange that originated on the island of Barbados. It was brought to Florida in the early 20th century but became popular several years later when the Ruby Red variety was introduced. Currently, grapefruits are produced in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, Arizona and California, with the majority of pink and red varieties being grown in Texas. Pomelo looks similar to grapefruit but is often larger and has a sweeter, less acidic flavor. For best quality, select grapefruits heavy for their size and are free of squishy brown spots or dull wrinkled skin. Make sure the poles (sides of the grapefruit containing the holes) are flat. Grapefruits can be stored for 1 week at room temperature or for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Mandarin oranges: Popular varieties include tangerine, Satsuma and Clementine. Tangor, a hybrid between sweet and mandarin oranges, is also becoming more common. Because mandarin oranges are more cold-hardy than other citrus species, breeding programs exist in Mississippi and Louisiana to increase production beyond where it currently exists.
Lemons and limes: Lemons are often grown in California, and limes in Florida. Meyer Lemon is actually the result of the cross between lemons and sweet oranges and is less sour. Interestingly, Meyer Lemon fell out of favor in the mid-20th century, but over the last several years was re-popularized famous chefs.
Remember, even though citrus fruits are high in acid, it’s important to handle them safely to prevent food borne illness. First, wash citrus with cool tap water just before preparing or eating even if the rinds will be removed. Refrigerate fresh citrus products within two hours of peeling or cutting. Leftover cut citrus and freshly squeezed juice should be discarded after two hours at room temperature.
Here is an easy to make salad which can be tailored to your families’ likes. Serve on a bed of dark green leafy greens to complete the side dish. Enjoy!
Mexican Citrus Salad
2 cucumbers
2 oranges
1 lemon or lime (the juice)
1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder
1⁄2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Wash the cucumbers, oranges and lemon or lime under cold running water. Slice the cucumbers. Peel and cut the oranges into small pieces. Place cucumber slices and orange pieces in a medium size bowl. Add chili powder, lemon or lime juice and salt.
