Eat Local Spotlight: Citrus

celebrating citrus


SPOTLIGHT


It’s What’s Inside that Matters

The phrase “don’t judge a book by its cover” holds true when buying Hawaii citrus fruit. Because Hawaii lacks the big swings in temperature that cause citrus fruit to develop its color, the skin of our local citrus is often spotty and less uniform looking than that of Mainland relatives. But don’t let the “ugly” exterior fool you or you will miss out! In fact, Hawaii citrus are sweeter than California citrus– and fresher too!

Here in Hawaii, our local farmers grow a wide variety of citrus — oranges, lemons, limes and tangerines, as well as tangelos, grapefruit, Meyer lemons, pummelo (jabong), calamansi and Buddha’s hand. And Foodland is proud to work with many farmers across the state to bring you the best citrus available in Hawaii. Taste our local citrus alongside mainland imports and you, too, will understand why local mo bettah!

Here are some helpful ways to use local citrus to freshen up:

• Citrus A-peel: Dice citrus peel and run a tablespoon or two through the garbage disposal to fight funky odors.

• Scrub-a-dub-dub: Keep cut halves after you’ve juiced them and put them to use. Sprinkle the cut side liberally with Hawaiian salt and use to scrub the kitchen sink or pans. Citrus oils help cut through the grease and the salt is a non-toxic abrasive that can help bring your stainless steel sink or pans back to a shine.

• Soften Up: To soften the rough skin on your elbows, cut a lemon or grapefruit in half and sit with your elbows propped in each half for five to ten minutes. Then rinse and moisturize!

• Take a Bath: Float sliced citrus in your bathwater. The vitamins and acid will promote healthy skin while the fresh scent will give a boost of energy to your mind, body, and spirit.

• Finishing Touch: Splash a little citrus juice into a pan sauce once you’ve removed it from the heat and just before serving, to add a bright flavor to your favorite dish.


Did You Know?
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citrus fruits

Citrus arrived in the Hawaiian Islands before 1800, brought by explorers who followed the discovery visit of Captain James Cook. Today, they are among the most popular of all trees grown in local backyards.


RECIPES


local citrus salad


Watch How to Make It

Local Citrus Salad
Serves 4 to 6

This beautiful, bright salad makes a flavorful complement to any meal and is a showstopper addition to a party buffet.
INGREDIENTS
  • 4 to 5 local citrus fruits of your choice (oranges, grapefruit, tangerine)
  • 2 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons local honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons local basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese, fresh grated
  • 2 pinches salt
  • Black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Peel citrus fruits and slice 1/4-inch thick against the grain to create round pinwheel shapes.
  2. Arrange artfully on platter. Feather prosciutto slices over citrus.
  3. Drizzle with honey, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with basil and fresh grated Parmesan cheese.


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Did you make this recipe?
Let us know how it turned out for you! Share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #FoodlandEatLocal




orange sign

How can you tell it’s local?
Look for the ORANGE SIGNS
to find locally grown and locally made items throughout our stores.