
Why Citrus is Essential for Summer Recipes
Citrus fruits shine brightly in summer, delivering more than just vibrant colors to our plates. Packed with vitamin C and natural brightness, fruits like lemons, limes, and tangerines are essential enhancements in the culinary world. Executive chef Emily Brubaker from the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa suggests that citrus can elevate almost any dish by cutting through richness and enhancing flavors. “I don’t think I’ve ever cooked a fish without squeezing lemon on it at the end!” she remarked, emphasizing citrus's versatility.
Revamp Your Summer Dishes with Citrus
Whether you're grilling outside or whipping up a quick salad, citrus can be your go-to ingredient. It seamlessly replaces heavier ingredients like sauces and vinegars, offering a fresher take on your favorites. Brubaker recommends a salad with a tantalizing tangerine dressing that pairs beautifully with peppery arugula. The sweetness of tangerines combined with a hint of mustard creates a dressing that is both refreshing and satisfying. This summer salad recipe is a breeze to whip up:
Arugula Salad with Tangerine Dressing
Ingredients:
• 2 cups wild arugula
• 4 tangerines, half juiced and half segmented
• ¼ cup feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 pinch dried thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: Combine mustard, tangerine juice, olive oil, and thyme in a bowl. Toss with arugula, tangerines, feta, and pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Deliciously Simple Grilled Fish
Citrus makes it easy to create stunning entrees like grilled fish. Brubaker's favorite preparation with branzino is both simple and flavorful. The combination of lemon segments with fresh ingredients like parsley and capers forms a zesty dressing that complements the delicate fish:
Grilled Branzino Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 cleaned branzino
• 1 tsp capers, chopped
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 small shallot, diced
• 2 lemons (one for the sauce and one for grilling)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 pinch salt
Directions: Season the branzino with salt and pepper, then spray both sides with cooking spray to avoid sticking. Grill the fish over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Serve with the lemon and herb dressing.
Embrace the Refreshing Flavors of Summer
This summer, don’t miss out on the opportunity to incorporate citrus into your meals. From salads to entrees, the bright flavors not only enhance dishes but are also appealing visually. As you embrace these refreshing flavors, remember to enjoy the process—cooking should be an adventurous and enjoyable experience!
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