Citrus for Health

As juicy and tasty as winter citrus fruits are, now that spring is around the corner it may take extra creative effort to add these power-packed blasts of nutrition to our menus. With their many health benefits, we offer these recipes and some great reasons to keep eating fresh citrus!

Blending your own juice is a great way to start the day, and we have several quick and easy recipes that will give you a vitamin C boost. Sunrise Juice pairs carrots and oranges, with an optional ginger kick. Citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, a nutrient that strengthens the immune system and keeps your skin smooth and elastic through its role in collagen production. This Green With Citrus Envy recipe can be made with a your choice of several citrus fruits, plus watercress and mint for a deliciously unique flavor

Citrus fruits have other vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly, including B vitamins, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and copper. They are also rich in flavonoids and other plant compounds that have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The anti-inflammatory properties of citrus are thought to protect against the chain of events that causes the nervous system to deteriorate, as in the progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Several studies in older adults have also shown that citrus juices may boost brain function.

To warm up on a cool rainy day, these Ramen dishes, California Ramen and Gold Beets and Crispy Garlic Ramen, have hearty veggies, leafy greens, nourishing broth and fresh lemon or lime juice to make the flavors pop. Citrus fruits are a good source of fiber, and this seasonal Blood Orange and Roasted Beet Salad is a filling and delicious way to boost your fiber intake. It’s estimated that only 4% of men and 13% of women in the U.S. get the recommended amounts of fiber every day. Fiber has several health benefits, including improving digestive function and aiding with weight loss. Citrus fruits are particularly high in soluble fiber which is the kind that helps lower LDL cholesterol levels.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, citrus fruits are a good choice. They’re low in fat, sodium and calories, yet their fiber and water content fill you up and keep you hydrated. Citrus fruits help your body absorb iron from plant-based sources such as beans, lentils and leafy green vegetables. Iron is a key mineral for supporting your immune system and producing red blood cells. To get these nutrients together, try Lemon Soup with Pasta, White Bean and Kale,– a true celebration of winter.

You can even finish off your meal with a citrus dessert! From elegant Winter Citrus Upside-Down Cake to quick Olive Oil Orange Cake, there is plenty of opportunity to squeeze some fresh goodness into your sweet treats. While it can feel challenging to go for months without some of our favorite fruits, the amazing variety of dishes you can make with citrus adds some sunshine to these grey spring days!

How To Add Farm Stand products to Your Delivery:
Full Circle members – head on over to our online Farm Stand Market to customize your upcoming delivery. Market is open from noon on Thursday until 6 pm on your cutoff date. After you confirm your produce items, click the orange button “Confirm and Continue To Other Farm Products” to add farm products to your delivery.

Not part of our farm family? Find out if we deliver to your neighborhood.