Finding Joy in Seasonal Cooking: A Citrus Love Story

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There’s something absolutely magical about citrus. The vibrant colors and bold, tangy flavors remind us that even in the coldest seasons, there’s brightness waiting to be uncovered. While the cold, dark winters aren’t really a thing here in Southern California, I still find myself leaning into the rhythm of seasonal eating. Even with our milder climate, the cooler months have a way of calling for heartier, warming foods like soups, stews, and roasts.

Yet, amidst those cozy, comforting dishes, citrus becomes the ingredient that can transform and uplift them. Citrus offers a reminder that winter doesn’t have to feel heavy—it can still be vibrant and full of life. From the sunny yellows of Meyer lemons to the deep, jewel tones of blood oranges, citrus brings a refreshing balance to the richness of winter meals. It’s a little slice of sunshine on a chilly day, brightening both the plate and the spirit.

When the days feel short and the air turns crisp, I find myself reaching for lemons, oranges, and grapefruits to add a fresh, zesty touch to my meals. One winter long ago, I discovered the transformative power of the sweet, floral notes of Meyer lemons in a simple soup. That experience taught me the incredible impact seasonal ingredients can have on flavor. Since then, citrus has become a staple of my winter kitchen—a way to bring brightness, balance, and vibrant flavors to even the heartiest winter dishes, while embracing the joys of seasonal cooking.

Brighten Up Your Winter Cooking with These Simple Citrus Tips

1. Zest for Success: Adding citrus zest to soups, stews, or dressings infuses a vibrant flavor without introducing extra acidity, enhancing the dish in subtle yet powerful ways.

   - use this TOOL for easy zesting

   
   

2. Sweet Meets Savory: Pair citrus segments with hearty greens like kale or fennel for a refreshing winter salad. Blood oranges and grapefruits add just the right amount of tang and sweetness.

   
   

3. Lemons vs. Limes: Lemons will bring brightness and a bold, tangy flavor to your dishes, while limes will offer a softer brightness that enhances your dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

   
   

I'd LOVE to hear your favorite ways to utilize the magic of Citrus in your cooking!

• Do you have a go-to dish where citrus shines? Or a recipe you’d like to share?

  
  

• Which of these citrus tips are you most excited to try? Or is there a winter dish you’d like to brighten with citrus?

  
  

• “Have you experimented with the difference between lemons and limes in your cooking? What’s your favorite?

  
  

• How do you usually use citrus in your cooking? Do you have a favorite recipe or memory tied to it?

  
  

This love for citrus inspired part of my upcoming project, Seasonal Table, where I’ll be sharing recipes and tips like these to help you embrace the best of every season. January’s theme is all about citrus—it’s bright, bold, and the perfect way to kick off the New Year!

Share your thoughts in the comments — I’d love to hear your ideas and tips! And if you’re excited about Seasonal Table, stay tuned for more details coming soon.