Wonderful Winter Fruits in Season

Industrial farming, new technologies in agriculture and advances in shipping and handling have made it possible for the Western world to get just about any produce at any time of the year. What’s been lost in the bargain, however, is our connection to the rhythm of the seasons and the significantly greater nutritional value and flavor of fruits and vegetables consumed in season.

Ever experienced the disappointment of an orange tomato in December or a bland, pulpy peach bought at the supermarket? Skip the long-distance fruits this winter and indulge instead in the richness of seasonal citrus fruits and more. These bright, sweet fruits will make you forget the blistering cold outside.

The citrus season can start as early as Halloween and hold out through March, with Valencia oranges coming in at the tail-end of the season. Pomegranates ripen between September and February. These bright fruits add welcome color, crunch and sweetness to a mixed green salad with a mild vinaigrette dressing.

Figs make their brief annual appearance in late fall as well, but since their season is short and they don’t keep well, they may be harder to come by—but worth the hunt. Delicious paired with almost any cheese, figs are a delicacy with sharp or tangy blue, feta, Bucharet or Manchego. Figs get high marks for calcium, considerable antioxidant properties and fiber content.

Arguably the most abundant and popular winter fruit, apples show up in droves starting around October. Search for heirloom varieties at farmers markets for a unique treat when you grow tired of standard Gala, Fuji and Golden Delicious.

Sweet, velvety pears follow close behind the beginning of abundant apple season. Often outshined by the favored apple, pears are equally versatile. Eaten fresh, served with cheese pairings, sliced into a salad or baked for an elegant dessert, pears are sure to please a crowd.—Marcia Barager

Baked Balsamic Praline Pear Recipe

Click the link below to try a recipe for baked balsamic praline pears, a saucy and sweet dessert ideal for a special occasion.

> Try the Recipe
 
 

0 comments