With the New Year comes a sense of refreshment. We’re re-energized to tackle new goals and our wellness. As part of that wellness plan you may be looking at ways to refresh your diet. When I think of foods that are refreshing, citrus immediately comes to mind.

Citrus fruits are known for being high in Vitamin C which as an antioxidant helps to protect the body from damage. In addition, Vitamin C helps in collagen synthesis, strengthens resistance to infection, and helps in absorption of iron.

Oranges are probably the best know citrus fruit and there is a great variety to be enjoyed. Navel oranges are sweet, seedless and easy to peel. Cara Cara oranges have pinkish red flesh and are super-sweet. The flesh of Blood oranges is bright red and is a bit more tart than sweet in flavor. But don’t forget to enjoy other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, grapefruit, tangelo (cross between a tangerine and grapefruit), pummelo (distant cousin to grapefruits) and clementines.

Ways to enjoy Citrus Fruits this winter:

• Squirt some lemon juice in your water for a burst of flavor
• Top oatmeal or yogurt with slices of oranges or clementines
• Add slices of grapefruit or tangelo to salads or wraps
• Peel and enjoy as a simple and quick snack

All month long, we will be featuring Citrus fruits in our culinary classes to awaken your taste buds this winter.

Here’s to a refreshing start to 2018,

Kristen Blixt

Tags: Citrus, citrus fruits, cooking demos, Culinary Classes, Eat Well, healthy, healthy snacks, january, snack tips, Uncategorized