There's no brighter sunshine in the colder months than the fresh lift of citrus. From January's sweet, juicy Honeybells — a cross between a tangerine and grapefruit — to plump, delicately sweet, seedless, and snackable navel oranges that stick around from November through May, each variety has its time to shine. The easy-to-peel mandarins and succulent honey tangerines are family favorites from November to April. With their beautiful pink flesh and hint of berry flavor, Cara Caras — a cousin to blood oranges and navel oranges (and my husband’s favorite) — add a special touch from December through April. These fruits are delicious and versatile for savory meals and dreamy desserts.
Here are eight ways to make your winter brighter, tastier…and juicier!
Orange Coconut Smoothie
Orange Coconut Smoothie
Shop : Cushman's® Florida HoneyBells - One Tray from Harry & David
Start the day with this layered smoothie inspired by the classic creamsicle. The bottom layer features frozen coconut meat and Greek yogurt for a velvety texture. The citrus layer packs a vibrant punch with freshly squeezed juice, two peeled Honeybell oranges, and grated zest for extra sweetness and depth.
Shop : Cushman's® Florida HoneyBells - One Tray from Harry & David
Orange Marmalade
Orange Marmalade
Refrigerator marmalades — ones you cook on the stovetop — don't require arduous canning skills or special equipment. We love the addition of zesty fresh ginger; you can use any orange you wish, such as HoneyBells, Cara Caras, or blood oranges. And this marmalade is versatile, too. Slather it on super thick Wolferman's English Muffins or use it as a glaze for ham.
Cara Cara Oranges, Beets, and Fennel Salad
Cara Cara Oranges, Beets, and Fennel Salad
Sweet Cara Cara oranges shine in this salad of earthy roasted beets, crisp fennel, and buttery, crunchy Marcona almonds. The honey citrus vinaigrette is light and fresh, and adds another layer of citrus depth and sweetness. Adding the fennel fronds boosts the complementary anise flavor.
Orange Roasted Chicken
Orange Roasted Chicken
Once again, Cara Cara oranges give this one-pan dinner its beautiful color while adding bright citrus flavors. This recipe highlights how easy it is to spatchcock a whole chicken — that is, removing its backbone with kitchen shears to lay it flat. This preparation method helps the bird cook faster and more evenly, making it easier to carve. Perfect for a holiday feast or fancy weeknight meal.
Cuban Salmon With Citrus Slaw
Cuban Salmon With Citrus Slaw
Combine citrus supremes — segments with the membrane and pith removed — spicy jalapeño, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and cabbage for a refreshing citrus slaw to accompany roasted salmon. Make Cuban seasoning by combining 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a half teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
HoneyBell Orange Margarita Mocktail
HoneyBell Orange Margarita Mocktail
Combine sweet HoneyBell orange juice with a citrusy kick of lime juice and zest, and sweeten it with agave — all sans the tequila — to make a fresh, alcohol-free twist on a classic margarita. Since HoneyBells are only available for a short time in winter, keep on sipping all year long by swapping in Cara Caras or navel oranges.
Candied Orange Slices Dipped in Dark Chocolate
Candied Orange Slices Dipped in Dark Chocolate
Make an easy, indulgent treat by dipping candied orange slices in dark chocolate; the candied citrus cuts through the rich chocolate and complements its bitter notes. Enjoy them as a light dessert or snack, or gift them with festive cookies to spread winter cheer!
Orange Cake With Rum-Infused Frosting
Orange Cake With Rum-Infused Frosting
Shake up your holiday baking and take hold of citrus' peak season by making this moist, double-layer, tropical-inspired cake with a rum-infused buttercream frosting. Swap the vegetable oil for your favorite excellent-quality extra-virgin olive oil to add another layer of fragrant richness to this showstopper.