winter fruit

Thought to be a cross between a mandarin and a true lemon, Meyer lemons are rounder, smaller, and have a sweeter juice than the standard variety you'll find in the grocery store. This citrus fruit is native to China but eventually made its way to California, and its name comes from Frank N. Meyer, who first discovered this fragrant fruit in 1908. The moist, thin peel makes an incredible zest, which is praised by chefs everywhere.

Because the juice is much sweeter, Meyer lemons make a great cocktail starter. And whatever you do, don't throw away the peels! The zest of the Meyer lemon can be used in everything from vinaigrettes to gremolatas. Sprinkle the zest in pastas, rice, or orzo. Or, use Meyer lemons in place of true lemons in pastries like shortbread or lemon bars. Prepare to love these lemons – and be happy to make lemonade!

Keep reading for a few meyer lemon recipe ideas.

Growing up in Hawaii, I was sort of spoiled. In my backyard we had papaya, avocado, coconut, and passion fruit trees. The best part? They were there when we moved in! And in a tropical climate like Hawaii, these trees need little in the way of cultivation — they just kind of hang out and take care of themselves.

Even though I've moved away from Hawaii, my favorite fruit is still passion fruit, except now it's more of a delicacy than a mainstay. If you've never experienced this sweet, fleshy fruit, now is the time to try it. It grows in abundance this time of year and can easily be found at most grocery stores. (I was able to pick one up from Safeway just the other day.) The purple fruit is antioxidant-rich and full of vitamin A, iron, and vitamin C.

Look for ones that are about the size of a lemon with slight indentations in the skin — this means they're ready to eat. I usually just slice one open and eat the pulp — seeds and all — with a spoon. The fruit has a really sweet, floral scent and a sweet-tart flavor. What will probably be unusual to most people is the texture. On top of being really juicy, the pulp has an almost jelly-like texture and consistency.

If you're not into the texture, passion fruit is great for juicing or as an ingredient in a cocktail, dessert, salad dressing, or a sauce. I also love making jam out of it too. Have any of you tried passion fruit?

Source: Flickr User geishaboy500

Shopping in the produce aisle has been a little sad lately. I miss all the delicious fresh fruit of Summer. Now if I want fresh blueberries, I have to pay about $5 for half a pint. I splurged one day because I had a huge craving, and was sorely let down by the mushy, tasteless flesh — once again proving to myself that buying seasonal produce is the best way to go. Looking around, I noticed there are many other fruits to enjoy this time of year, although some are more in season than others. Check out this breakdown of fruits you can get in the cold Winter months.

Don't see your favorite Winter fruit? Then keep reading.