Summer is at its highest peak with heat waves blowing across different parts of the country. People are finding ways to provide relief to themselves and opting for hydrating drinks, and cooling and refreshing foods. Besides, they are indulging in seasonal produce and making the best use of them.
Although oranges are winter fruits, you’ll find the fruit in certain supermarkets. If you’re craving the tangy sweetness and juicy texture of oranges in this hot summer, buy it without a second thought. This perfect fruit will not only quench your thirst but also provide a substantial dosage of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and hydration.
Apart from eating them fresh, you can make creative use of this fruit and incorporate it into your summer diet. Take a look at some of the summer dishes made of oranges.
- Orange Mint Cooler
This refreshing drink will provide you with relief from the scorching heat of the summer. Orange Mint Cooler is easy to prepare by blending fresh orange juice with a handful of mint leaves, a teaspoon of honey, and a splash of soda water. You can serve the drink chilled with ice cubes and garnish with a sprig of mint leaves. This beverage will cool you and revive your senses.
- Orange And Fennel Salad
To create this delightful summer salad, you need to combine the oranges along with fennel seeds. Here the sweetness of oranges complements the mild licorice flavour of fennel seeds. Thinly slice fennel bulbs and segment oranges, remove all piths and seeds and toss them together with the dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. For added texture and flavour, you can add some roasted almonds.
- Orange Panna Cotta
This creamy dessert is a light and satisfying option for this summer. Orange Panna Cotta is made by heating cream and dissolving sugar and adding fresh orange juice and gelatin to it. Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate until solid. Serve with a drizzle of orange syrup and sprinkle some grated zest for an extra burst of citrusy flavour.
- Orange Chutney
This is an excellent accompaniment to Indian meals. Cook this spicy and tangy chutney by adding chopped oranges with ginger, garlic, green chilles, and spices like mustard seeds, cumin, and fennel. For a touch of sweetness add jaggery. Splash of vinegar will add acidity to it. This chutney pairs well with dosa, idli, and even as a spread for sandwiches.
- Orange Flavoured Rice
This is a twist to the traditional rice dishes which adds fragrant and zesty flavours. Cook basmati rice with orange zest and juice along with a few whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves. After the rice is fluffy, stir in some sauteed vegetables or nuts. This dish can be served as a side or a light main course, having a unique citrus flavour.
- Orange And Yoghurt Smoothie
A perfect breakfast or a mid-day snack option, orange and yoghurt smoothie is a healthy and filling one. To prepare this, blend fresh orange segments, yoghurt, a teaspoon of honey, and a few ice cubes until smooth. This is a creamy and tangy smoothie that adds a protein boost along with refreshing citrus notes.
- Orange And Coconut Ladoo
For all the sweet lovers, you can try our orange and coconut laddoo this summer. To make this, mix grated coconut with condensed milk and fresh orange juice. Cook the mixture until it thickens and then form small bite-sized balls out of it. Roll the laddoo in desiccated coconut and chill until firm. These are perfect and delightful bites for festive occasions or simply as a sweet snack.
- Spicy Orange Popsicles
Beat the summer heat by indulging in spicy orange popsicles. This popsicle is a fusion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours. All you need to do is mix fresh orange juice with a pinch of chaat masala and a dash of cayenne pepper. Now pour the mixture into the popsicle molds and freeze until solid. These are a refreshing and spicy treat perfect for summer.