Seasonal Eating: Guide To Citrus Fruits

In case the massive and deadly icicles hanging from your roof haven't clued you in, it's winter. Cue the collective groan. But buck up—the dreaded season has more to offer than just Frozen. I'm talking, of course, about clementines and their less adorable but equally delicious cousins in the citrus family. Now is the time to indulge in these fruits that taste like candy but won't interfere with your crash spring break diet.

1. Oranges

Consume some vitamin C before soaking up all that Florida vitamin D. All oranges are currently in season, but pick up some blood (Moro) oranges before April, when they're past their prime. Or opt for the classic navel (named so because of the belly-button-like puckering, fyi), and weigh them in your hand before buying. The heavier, the juicier.

2. Clementines

At no point this season should your fridge be missing a sac of these. I'm serious. Not only will they fit easily in your bag for a mid-class snack, but each bite of one is like a burst of happiness in your mouth. The beauty of clementines is that you buy in bulk and look through the cartons beforehand—avoid blemishes and dull skin when choosing. And if you're a nail biter (I know that feel), they're easy to peel. Like magic.

3. Grapefruits

The best part about a grapefruit is that it provides its own bowl. I mean, how polite. Next best is the lycopene, an antioxidant that might prevent certain kinds of cancer. Never mind the wonderfully sweet and sour flavor that belongs on breakfast tables everywhere. When choosing your grapefruit, check that it feels heavy and firm when squeezed (get your mind out of the gutter). Pair it with the morning paper and half-moon glasses to feel like the sophisticate you always knew you could be.

Check out this chart for all of your additional citrus questions.

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