What’s better than biting into a sweetly tart orange on a gloomy day? Oranges, although a popular summer treat, are also heavily featured in holiday cooking and baking.
Want more reasons to eat this fantastic fruit? Check out some nutritional benefits oranges carry:
High in antioxidants – when you think of oranges, right away your mind goes to Vitamin C! This antioxidant is super important in boosting your immunity, protecting your skin, and more.
High in potassium – this mineral is essential in lowering blood sugar.
High in fiber – fiber, as mentioned in previous posts, can help with balancing blood sugar (helpful in managing diabetes), promoting weight loss, and increasing nutrient absorption.
Here are some unique recipes to try at your next gathering:
CITRUS SALAD:
In a large bowl, add 2-3 C organic arugula, 1 organic orange, peeled and roughly chopped, 1 C organic grapefruit, peeled and roughly chopped, organic ricotta (however much is preferred), sea salt and black pepper to taste, 2 tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette, 1 tbsp. olive oil, and mix well. Serve as a side salad.
ORANGE AND POMEGRANATE BARK:
Mix together 1 C of Greek yogurt, 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract, 2 tbsp. of honey, and 1 tbsp. juice from an organic orange juice. In a small cake pan (8x8in) lined with parchment paper, pour in mixture and smooth out to fill bottom layer of pan. Top with organic pomegranate and orange pieces to your liking, and freeze for 4 hours. Break apart and enjoy as a light snack.
BRUSSELS SPROUT BAKE:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On a baking tray (lined with parchment paper), add 1 C chopped organic Brussels sprouts, 3 pieces of chopped bacon, ½ an organic small red onion chopped, ½ a chopped organic orange, topped with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder and olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, and serve warm as a side to your meal.