Sweet And Tangy Citrus Recipes

Jane Bruce

Yasmin Fahr|Feb. 17, 2012 4:05 pm EST

Though lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges are typically the most common citrus varieties found in recipes, there is a seemingly endless amount of citrus available — from the aptly named Buddha's hand and stunning red blood oranges to baby kumquats that have a sweet rind and tart pulp. Then, of course, there are the easy-to-peel clementines and the blends, like the tangelo and the pomelo, each wonderful in its own right.

Each citrus fruit offers its own unique characteristic, whether it's the color of its flesh or the sweetness of its juice, but there are a few basic things to know about these flavor-enhancing fruits. First and foremost, never try to juice a cold citrus fruit (you won't get nearly as much as if it were at room temperature). Try rolling the fruit on the counter with your palm to maximize the amount of juice.

When zesting fruits, hold them directly over the cocktail or dish so that the essential oils that are released aren't wasted (the stuff that squirts out when you pierce the skin). Use these tangy fruits to add flavor and a boost of vitamins and minerals to dishes. The acid in most citrus fruits works wonderfully for salad dressings instead of vinegars, or squeezed on top of fish for a little brightness. Or, just eat them as a healthy snack.

Check out some of the creative ways we've used citrus fruit this season below, and please share any photos or recipes that you love to make!

Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake with Blueberry Sauce

The fresh tang of Meyer lemons and the fruitiness of olive oil are a natural pairing, and what better to marry them than in a sweet, satisfying dessert!

— Carly Goldsmith

Greek Lemon Rice