(Family Features) Breezy spring days can lead you on nearly any adventure, and they can happen in your own backyard, on a short road trip or during a full-blown beach vacation. No matter where you are when those warmer days arrive, you can put outdoor meals on the menu and take advantage of perfect opportunities for fresh brunch spreads to share with loved ones.

Whether you’re enjoying spring sunshine at home or traveling with friends and family, Florida Orange Juice can be a delicious, nutritious addition to your outdoor plans. By delivering a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have associated health benefits, it’s perfect for supporting healthy immune systems and overall health.

With no added sugar, 100% orange juice comes coupled with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, folate and thiamin. Orange juice is one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods, and it can serve as a substitution for sugar-sweetened beverages in the diets of both children and adults while providing a convenient way to complement whole fruit intake to help reach one’s daily fruit intake recommendations. 

As an ultimate go-to beverage and ingredient, Florida Orange Juice is convenient and versatile for use in breakfast recipes like these Orange Juice Biscuits or cocktails such as Orange Juice Spicy Margaritas. These naturally sweet, tasty recipes make for ideal additions to brunch menus all spring long.

“Families across the country are planning spring vacations and springtime brunches, so it’s an important time to think about wellness and immune health,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “As the ultimate drink for spring, 100% orange juice is a healthy option while on the go and it’s easy to add into almost any recipe. It’s rich in vitamin C and includes other nutrients like potassium, folate and thiamin, making it a great choice for overall wellness.”

To find more ways to enhance spring brunches, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice Biscuits

Orange Butter Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Orange Biscuits:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• 2 cups bleached all-purpose flour, plus additional for kneading
• 1 2/3 tablespoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup Florida Orange Juice

1. To make orange butter sauce: Boil orange juice 5 minutes, or until reduced by half. Add butter and stir until melted. Remove from heat.
2. To make orange biscuits: Preheat oven to 425 F.
3. Use fingers to rub sugar and zest together until sugar is moistened and looks like wet sand.
4. In large bowl, whisk orange sugar, 2 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Using two forks or pastry blender, cut in shortening to size of small peas.
5. Combine milk and orange juice then stir into flour mixture to make sticky dough.
6. Turn out dough onto well-floured work surface. Sprinkle top with flour and knead about six times while folding dough over in half and using more flour as needed.
7. Pat dough out to 3/4-inch thickness. Cut out biscuits with round cutter by dipping cutter in flour then pressing into dough. Do not turn cutter while pressing.
8. Place biscuits close together but not touching on baking sheet.
9. Gather dough scraps and fold 2-3 times, pat out again and cut biscuits. Repeat until dough is used.
10. Brush tops with orange butter sauce. Bake 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
11. Serve warm or at room temperature with remaining sauce.

Orange Juice Spicy Margaritas

• 2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• ice
• 2 cups simple syrup
• 8 ounces silver tequila
• 2 ounces triple sec or orange liqueur
• 2 ounces lime juice
• 4 ounces seltzer
• ghost pepper salt, to taste
• 4 Florida Orange slices, 1/4-inch thick

1. In saucepan over medium heat, reduce orange juice to 1 cup and allow to cool.
2. Fill cocktail shaker 3/4 full with ice. Add orange juice reduction, simple syrup, tequila, triple sec and lime juice.
3. Shake and pour into four glasses. Top each glass with 1 ounce seltzer.
4. Pour ghost pepper salt onto saucer and dip edges of orange slices in ghost pepper salt. Place orange slices on rim of each glass, if desired.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) ’Tis the season for sweet and savory favorites – from the mouthwatering desserts you crave each year to starters and snacks that hold over hungry guests. Elevate your holiday entertaining with the right combination of appetizers, main courses, sides, sweets and beyond that start with the same seasonal staple: pecans.

As a versatile nut that can be used throughout the holidays, pecans have you covered so you can cook and enjoy a myriad of dishes, add festive flair to decor, or provide a nutritious snack in the midst of season-long indulgences. This year, pick up an extra bag of pecans to create nutritious, delicious dishes to enjoy on-the-go or serve to guests.

To help celebrate the holiday season, the American Pecan Promotion Board introduced a digital Pe-Calendar to highlight the many ways pecans can be enjoyed in and beyond a traditional pie. From Dec. 7-18, the interactive calendar will unveil tasty recipes for pecan fans to enjoy, along with fun games that can enter you in to win exciting prizes each day. From delicious Baked Brie with Pecans and Cranberry Orange Chutney to nutritious Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate, along with prizes, the calendar provides an ultimate way to shell-ebrate with the must-have holiday nut.

To sign up for daily email reminders to open a new door for chances to win nutty prizes, or to find additional holiday recipes, visit EatPecans.com.

Baked Brie with Pecans and Cranberry Orange Chutney

Recipe courtesy of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Cook time: 24 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup maple syrup, plus 1 teaspoon for garnish, divided
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 orange, zest and juice only
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme, plus additional for garnish, divided
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped rosemary
• 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)
• 1 round brie (13.4 ounces)
• 1/2 cup roasted pecan pieces
• crackers
• toasted bread
• apple slices

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
2. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring cranberries (reserving some for garnish), 1/2 cup maple syrup and water to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens, 8-10 minutes.
3. Remove cranberry mixture from heat and stir in orange zest, orange juice, 1 teaspoon thyme, rosemary and bourbon, if desired.
4. Place brie on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese softens while outside remains intact.
5. Transfer brie to serving platter and top with chutney and toasted pecans. Drizzle remaining maple syrup over brie and garnish with remaining fresh thyme and reserved cranberries. Serve with crackers, toasted bread and apple slices.

Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate

Recipe courtesy of Jess Larson and the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes, plus 10 minutes cooling time
 

• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1 cup rice squares cereal (wheat or cinnamon)
• 1/2 cup pretzels
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

1. In large, microwave-safe bowl, add pecans, rice squares cereal and pretzels. In small, microwave-safe bowl, add butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt and nutmeg. Microwave butter mixture 1-2 minutes until melted then pour over dry mix. Toss well to combine.
2. Microwave snack mix in 45-second intervals, about 4-5 intervals total, until mix is fragrant, golden and toasty.
3. Cool mix completely then stir in cranberries and dark chocolate chips.

American Pecan Promotion Board

(Family Features) Bolstering your immune system during winter, when coughs and colds seem to take control, is a must for the entire family. Supporting your wellness can start in a simple place – with the foods you eat and drink.

Consider an easy choice for any season like Florida Orange Juice, which can help you and your loved ones get the vitamins and minerals you need all winter long. With 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C in every 8-ounce serving along with key nutrients like potassium and magnesium, there’s a reason it’s referred to as the “Original Wellness Drink.”

With no added sugar or artificial flavor, it provides the benefits you need without the additives you don’t. It contains natural sugar from the whole fruit for a delicious solution that’s one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Plus, it’s easy to use as a nutritional ingredient in wintertime favorites like this comforting Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup or to start your day strong with a Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie.

Paired with a healthy lifestyle, 8 ounces of 100% orange juice may help support a healthy immune system as an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin D in fortified juices. Vitamin C is commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen healthy immune systems by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of immune cells. Meanwhile, vitamin D also plays an important role in regulating immune response by helping immune cells fight off bacteria and viruses.

“Safeguarding your health against the spread of illness is important year-round, especially during colder months when reports of cold and flu increase,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “A key step in supporting your immune system is maintaining a well-balanced diet that is high in essential nutrients. Incorporating an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice can help you meet the recommended daily value of vitamin C and support your hydration.”

Beneficial plant compounds, like those in Florida Orange Juice, along with flavonoids and colorful carotenoids work to support the immune system by fighting inflammation and helping cells communicate, which can help strengthen immune responses when encountering infections.

Additionally, 100% orange juice is a source of phytonutrients like hesperidin, which has been shown in clinical studies to have antioxidant-like properties, heart health benefits and may help reduce inflammation. Hesperidin has also been linked with benefits related to cognitive function, immune system function and bone health.

To find more information and immunity-boosting winter recipes, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice and Coconut Chickpea Soup

Servings: 8

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 1/2 cups diced carrots
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 quart vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) light coconut milk
• 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Florida Orange juice
• chopped cilantro (optional)

1. In medium saucepan over medium high, heat olive oil until it shimmers.
2. Add onions, bell pepper, carrots and salt; cook until onions are translucent, 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cardamom; cook 1-2 minutes, or until garlic is fragrant. Do not brown.
4. Add vegetable broth, coconut milk and chickpeas; bring to simmer.
5. Decrease heat to low and cook until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Add orange juice, remove from heat and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Serve garnished with cilantro, if desired.

Superfruit Breakfast Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 8 ounces Florida Orange Juice
• 4 ounces dark sweet cherries
• 2 ounces pomegranate juice

1. In blender, puree orange juice, cherries and pomegranate juice then serve.

(Family Features) Catching a cold or getting the flu can happen any time of year, but the height of cold and flu season requires extra precaution. Flu activity often increases in the fall and peaks between December and January, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Staying completely healthy throughout cold and flu season can’t be guaranteed, but, along with following guidance from your health care provider, dietary and lifestyle changes can help optimize your immune system and well-being.

Eat Healthfully
Eating a healthy diet is essential for optimizing your immune system. Many experts recommend consuming whole foods and plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes as well as whole grains. These foods contain beneficial plant compounds linked to health benefits in humans. Consider one prime example, fresh grapes, and how they may support immune health.

• At the most basic level, healthy cells are the foundation of good health. Natural grape compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols, help protect the health and function of the body’s cells.
• Studies suggest some grape compounds – resveratrol and certain flavonoids – may positively influence immune function.
• Additional studies show adding heart-healthy grapes to your daily diet can help support brain, colon and skin health. Maintaining healthy bodily systems is essential to defending against illnesses.
• Grapes are a good source of vitamin K, which may help support lung health.

An easy way to incorporate healthy foods into your diet is with simple recipes like this Immune-Boosting Green Grape Smoothie that contains additional nutritious ingredients that support immune health like spinach, walnuts and Greek yogurt.

Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for staying hydrated, which helps your immune system by keeping the body’s defenses functioning properly. In addition to water, you can increase hydration by eating foods with high water content like Grapes from California, which contain about 82% water.

Exercise Regularly
Getting your blood pumping with a little exercise can help improve immune response and reduce inflammation, according to a scientific review from the “Journal of Sport and Health Science.” Look toward aerobic activities like moderate-intensity walking, jogging and biking to increase the heart rate and encourage circulation of immune cells.

Practice Good Hygiene
You can protect yourself and others at the same time by taking preventive measures, like practicing good hygiene, to avoid spreading germs. At the most basic level, limit contact with others who are sick, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue while coughing or sneezing and wash your hands using soap and water.

Manage Stress
Stress can have a negative impact on many aspects of your health and wellness, including limiting your body’s ability to fight off infection. You can lower stress by practicing deep breathing or meditation and developing good habits like eating right, exercising and getting enough sleep. For late night snacking urges, choose foods such as grapes that are a natural source of melatonin, a compound which helps regulate sleep cycles. Talking with someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member or mental health professional, can help relieve stress as well.

Find more immunity-boosting recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Immune-Boosting Green Grape Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1          cup green Grapes from California, chilled
• 2 1/2    ounces baby spinach
• 1/3       cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4       cup fresh orange juice
• 1          cube (1/2 inch) peeled fresh ginger or 2 teaspoons prepared minced ginger
• 1          tablespoon walnut pieces

1. In blender, blend grapes, spinach, yogurt, orange juice, ginger and walnuts until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 12 g protein; 46 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (23% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 10 mg cholesterol; 110 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Turn up the heat this summer and spice your way to delicious warm-weather recipes by using subtle ingredients that bring out bold flavors in your favorite foods. Adding a taste-enhancing option to your repertoire – Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce – can make your summer get-togethers the talk of the neighborhood.

Cool off while enjoying mildly spicy dishes. Made with 100% natural chiles, lime juice, sea salt and a hint of apricot, Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce offers a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor without too much heat. Perfect for drizzling over fresh fruits and veggies like mango, pineapple, watermelon and more, it’s also commonly used to bring fruity, subtle spice to a wide variety of recipes including beverages and snacks, like smoothies, mangonadas, ice pops and cold drinks.

For example, in this Savory Mango Chamoy Daiquiri, the apricots create a fruity, tangy flavor that’s a nice, refreshing twist on a traditional drink.

Bringing a touch of heat to summer cookouts can be a breeze with mild hot sauces added to dishes like these Spiced Pork Ribs, which can be created start-to-finish in the oven or taken outside to sear on the grill. Just a handful of ingredients are required to season the ribs to spicy perfection before wrapping them in foil and letting your oven do the work.

The key ingredient for the right touch of subtle heat without being overwhelming is Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, a unique, flavorful addition to your cabinet that pairs well with savory snacks like tortilla chips, chicken wings, pizza and even micheladas. The lime is what makes it different from other hot sauces.

Made with 100% natural mild chiles, lime juice and sea salt without added sugars or coloring, it can be enjoyed by the whole family as a versatile way to enhance favorite foods with a mild but wild flavor.

Both recipes can be easily enhanced with a simple concept: just pair Tajín Clásico seasoning with either or both of the sauces to create unique flavor combinations, a tasty “mix it” tactic to add to your warm-weather menu and make it uniquely yours.  

Find more recipes that crank up the heat this summer by visiting Tajín.com/us.

Spiced Pork Ribs

Total time: 3 hours, 10 minutes
Servings: 6

• 2 racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs
• 1/4 cup Tajín Clásíco Seasoning
• 1/4 cup Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, plus additional for serving, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• lime wedges, for serving
• mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving (optional)

1. Rub ribs with seasoning. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight in refrigerator.
2. Preheat oven to 300 F. Combine hot sauce, oil and brown sugar; brush over both rib racks.
3. Line baking sheet with double layer of aluminum foil with enough overhang to wrap foil around ribs.
4. Lay ribs, bone side down, on foil-lined baking sheet. Wrap foil around ribs and seal. Place on baking sheet.
5. Fill large baking dish or roasting pan with 2 inches of boiling water. Place on lower oven rack to keep ribs moist as they bake. Place ribs on middle oven rack.
6. Bake 2 1/2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and just starting to fall off bone.
7. Preheat broiler. Unwrap ribs and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 4-6 minutes on middle oven rack, or until lightly charred and caramelized.
8. Serve with lime wedges and additional hot sauce.
9. Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed white rice, if desired.

Savory Mango Chamoy Daquiri

Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Rim Glass:

• 2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
• 2 tablespoons Tajín Clásico Seasoning

Drink:

• 4 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, divided
• 1 cup frozen mango cubes, plus additional for garnish, divided
• 1/3 cup natural syrup
• 3 ice cubes
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon Tajín Clásico Seasoning, for garnish

1. To rim glass: Rim glass in chamoy hot sauce then seasoning.
2. To make drink: Blend 3 tablespoons chamoy hot sauce, mango cubes, syrup, ice cubes and orange juice.
3. In glass, pour remaining chamoy hot sauce.
4. To serve, garnish with additional mango cubes and sprinkle with seasoning.

Source: Tajín

(Family Features) A staple of warm weekend days, brunch combines the best flavors of the first two meals of the day. Every great brunch spread complements its savory items with something sweet, something refreshing and a signature beverage, and there’s one ingredient that can help cover all of those bases – 100% orange juice.

An option like Florida Orange Juice is not only delicious but delivers a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have associated health benefits. One of nature’s nutrient dense foods, one 8-ounce glass of orange juice provides 100% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C and is also a good source of potassium, folate and thiamin, making it a great substitute for sugar-sweetened beverages and simple addition to brunch staples like this Orange Oatmeal.

When combined with a healthy lifestyle, 100% orange juice may also help support a healthy immune system. Orange juice contains beneficial plant compounds, flavonoids and colorful carotenoids to aid in fighting inflammation and cell communication. It is also rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen immune systems by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of immune cells. Vitamin D, which can be found in fortified juices, also plays an important role in regulating immune response and helps immune cells fight off bacteria and viruses that get into the body.

Since 100% orange juice is naturally almost 90% water, it can help support hydration as it includes several electrolytes like potassium, magnesium and, in fortified juices, calcium, to aid in fluid balance. Combining Florida Orange Juice, watermelon juice and grapefruit juice, this Citrus Watermelonade is a bright, seasonal thirst quencher that is the perfect addition to your drink selection at brunch.

“Maintaining overall wellness and hydration is important as we ease into the warmer months of the year and more time is spent outdoors,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Florida Orange Juice includes many essential vitamins and minerals that aid in hydration, and it is a great complement to water in helping to provide nourishment before, during or after any activity.”

For more information and sweet, nutritious brunch recipes, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Citrus Watermelonade

• 1 cup hot water
• 2 cups sugar
• 6 cups watermelon, seeded, rind removed and cut into 1-inch pieces, divided
• 2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• 1 cup Florida Grapefruit Juice
• 3/4 cup lemon juice
• 3/4 cup lime juice
• 2 cups Florida Oranges, cut into 1-inch pieces, peeled
• 1/2 cup mint leaves
• ice, for serving
• Florida Orange Slices, for garnish (optional)
• watermelon chunks, for garnish (optional)

1. In small saucepan over low heat, combine hot water and sugar; heat until sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate until chilled.
2. In blender, puree 4 cups watermelon until smooth.
3. In large pitcher, stir watermelon juice, chilled sugar syrup, orange juice, grapefruit juice, lemon juice and lime juice until combined.
4. Add remaining watermelon pieces, orange pieces and mint leaves; refrigerate 2-3 hours until well chilled.
5. Serve over ice in glasses. Garnish with orange slices and watermelon chunks, if desired.

Orange Oatmeal

• 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup quick-cooking steel-cut oats
• 1 Florida Orange, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

1. In medium saucepan over high heat, bring orange juice and water to boil.
2. Add oats to boiling liquids.
3. Return to boil then reduce to medium heat and cook, uncovered, 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Mix in diced orange, agave nectar, cinnamon and salt. Remove pan from heat; let stand 1 minute before serving.

Source:

Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, saying “I love you” to a faraway relative or offering a kind gesture to a friend or neighbor, sending a gift is a thoughtful way to share your appreciation. A handwritten note goes a long way, and you can take that token of gratitude one step further by pairing it with an authentic fruit basket.

When it’s time to give a gift to a friend or loved one, consider sending fresh Florida Citrus boxes, which contain premium citrus hand-selected at the peak of ripeness. Available in a variety of sizes to fit your budget and filled with your choice of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and unique jams, jellies and candies, the baskets arrive fresh at the door of your recipient.

With naturally sweet taste from the Sunshine State, the unique climate with subtropical temperatures, abundant sunshine, distinctive sandy soil and ample rainfall help grow juicy citrus. Plus, the delicious fruits are equally nutritious as they’re loaded with vitamin C and provide a combination of nutrients to support overall health to help adults and children alike meet intake recommendations for certain key nutrients.

On top of their taste as appetizing snacks, they’re perfect for cooking in recipes like Citrus Marinated Flatiron Steak Salad or Citrus Cherry Cobbler that take advantage of their natural sweetness and allow for mouthwatering meals, sides, desserts and more.

To choose a premium, hand-selected basket and send to your friends, neighbors, coworkers and loved ones, visit gifts.floridacitrus.org.

Citrus Marinated Flatiron Steak Salad

Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1/4 cup Florida Tangerine Juice
• 2 teaspoons Florida Orange zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups olive oil

Flatiron Steak Salad:

• 1 1/2 pounds flatiron steak
• 2 cups Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette, divided
• 1/2 cup Florida Orange segments
• 1/2 cup Florida Grapefruit segments
• 2 quarts baby spinach
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup radish, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese

1. To make citrus balsamic vinaigrette: Combine orange juice, tangerine juice, orange zest, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard and salt and pepper, to taste. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking vigorously. Set dressing aside.
2. To make flatiron steak salad: Place flatiron steak in container and add 1 cup citrus balsamic vinaigrette. Marinate in refrigerator at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours.
3. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill steak to desired doneness. Remove from heat and rest 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
5. In large mixing bowl, combine orange segments, grapefruit segments, baby spinach, red onion, cherry tomatoes, radish and cucumber. Add remaining citrus balsamic vinaigrette, as desired, and toss well to combine.
6. To serve, divide salad and sliced steak among four plates and top with crumbled goat cheese.

Citrus Cherry Cobbler

Cobbler:

• 4 cups cherries, pitted, juice reserved
• 1/2 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups Florida Orange segments, seeded
• 1/2 cup Florida Grapefruit segments, seeded

Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 3 tablespoons milk

1. To make cobbler: In medium saucepan, combine cherries and reserved juice, orange juice, sugar, lemon juice and cornstarch. Bring to simmer, stirring constantly. Cook 1 minute and remove from heat. Add butter and stir until melted. Cool and add orange segments and grapefruit segments. Pour filling into baking dish or pie pan.
2. To make topping: Heat oven to 350 F.
3. In food processor, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder and cinnamon. Add butter and pulse until butter is cut into small, pea-sized pieces. Remove flour mixture from food processor and place in mixing bowl. Add egg and milk; stir until just combined. Drop topping mixture by tablespoon over filling until almost covered.
4. Bake until topping is browned and filling is bubbling and hot. Remove from oven and cool slightly before serving.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

Support your immune system with 100% orange juice

(Family Features) While winter rushes in with brisk breezes and chilly temperatures, staying indoors to avoid the weather shouldn’t mean forgoing healthy habits. One step toward wellness is maintaining nutritional value in meals from morning to night, even when comfort foods call your name.

As a key source of nutrients that supports a healthy lifestyle year-round, especially during cold and flu season, one 8-ounce serving of Florida Orange Juice provides more than 100% of your daily value of vitamin C and is a good source of potassium, folate and thiamin. Fortified juice also contains 15% of the daily value of vitamin D, which plays an important role in regulating immune response and helps cells fight off bacteria and viruses that enter the body.

Additionally, 100% orange juice is virtually the only dietary source of a unique, powerful phytonutrient (naturally occurring plant compound) called hesperidin, which may also help support a healthy immune system. According to the USDA, the flavonoid hesperidin is highly concentrated in citrus and rarely found in other foods.

“Maintaining a well-balanced diet is one way to help support your immune system in the colder months,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, scientific research director at the Florida Department of Citrus. “For example, 100% orange juice contains vitamin C, vitamin D (in fortified juice) and phytonutrients like flavonoids and colorful carotenoids, making it a nutritional powerhouse.”

This Orange Honey Glazed Carrots recipe offers a warming yet nutritional, naturally sweet way to incorporate orange juice into your winter menu. Orange juice is also a go-to ingredient for popular non-alcoholic drinks like this Orange Juice Mint Mocktail, a perfect pairing for winter meals.

Visit floridajuice.com to find more recipes for winter wellness.

Orange Honey Glazed Carrots

• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 1/4 cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
• fresh parsley, for garnish
• fresh chives, for garnish

1. Steam carrots until tender.
2. In saucepan over medium heat, whisk orange juice, honey, cornstarch, salt and ginger.
3. Cover, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
4. Pour sauce over steamed carrots. Top with parsley and chives.

Orange Juice Mint Mocktail

• 2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• ice cubes
• 1/2 cup carbonated water
• 2-3 mint leaves

1. In pitcher, stir orange juice, lemon juice and water.
2. Divide mocktail evenly among ice-filled glasses and top with carbonated water.
3. Garnish with mint leaves.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Entertaining guests during the holidays isn’t just about a main course that calls all to the table. What often makes a festive gathering more fruitful is a spread of delicious appetizers, delightful drinks and divine desserts that keep loved ones coming back to the kitchen for more.

For appetizing dishes from the first guest at the house to the last out the door, you can heighten the flavor and appearance of favorite recipes with one simple ingredient: apples. Ranging from tart to sugary sweet, finding the right balance for your palate is key. Scent can also influence taste, especially when you have a balanced sweetness with an uplifting, fresh aroma.

Turn to an option like Envy Apples this holiday season for satisfying texture and taste with a consistently balanced, refreshing sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch. They make for an easy snack when eaten fresh out of hand but are also perfect for holding over pre-dinner appetites in small plates like this Bell-Issimo Brie Melt or Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy.

The versatile flavor of apples isn’t just limited to foods, however. For the adults in the room, Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider with a splash of bourbon is a seasonally appropriate way to quench thirst and break the ice. Simply omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version so the whole party can savor a sip.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, Envy Apples offer an easy, eye-catching way to try new tastes and celebrate joyful occasions together. The bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown when sliced for a fresher flavor in sweet treats like Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping for a tasty way to elevate your holiday get-togethers.

Find more sweet holiday recipes at EnvyApple.com.

Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 Envy Apples, diced into large cubes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup cold butter, diced small
• 1/2 cup caramel
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 orange, zest only
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In bowl, stir together sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. Toss apples in lemon juice then in cinnamon sugar mixture. Spread in 9-inch pie dish.
4. In another bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour and oats. Using hands or fork, cut in butter until pea size crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
5. Bake 40-45 minutes until mixture is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool 15 minutes.
6. In small pot, whisk caramel, salt, orange zest and orange juice until warm.
7. Spoon apple oat crumble over large scoop vanilla ice cream and top with salted citrus caramel.

Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy

• 1 box stovetop stuffing
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups diced Envy Apples
• 1/2 onion, diced small

Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 20 turns fresh cracked pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary

1. Preheat broiler.
2. Cook stuffing according to package directions; set aside and allow to cool slightly.
3. In large saute pan, melt butter saute apples and onion until tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Stir together stuffing and apple mixture. Spread stuffing on sheet tray and allow to cool in refrigerator.
5. After cooling, form stuffing into medium bites and place on sheet tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Broil bites until golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. To make gravy: In small pot, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook flour 1 minute, whisking frequently.
8. Whisk in beef broth, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce; bring to boil, whisking frequently. Remove from heat and stir in rosemary. If desired, continue gently simmering gravy to thicken.
9. Arrange stuffing bites in serving dish and drizzle with gravy. Serve hot.

Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider

• 1 Envy Apple, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 2 ounces bourbon
• 4 ounces pumpkin spice apple cider
• demerara sugar
• Envy Apple slices, for garnish
• rosemary, for garnish
• cinnamon stick, for garnish

1. In pan over medium heat, saute diced apples in butter and pumpkin spice 5-10 minutes.
2. In glass, combine bourbon and pumpkin spice apple cider; top with sauteed apples.
3. Add demerara sugar then garnish with apple slices, rosemary and cinnamon stick.

Bell-Issimo Brie Melt

• 1 round brie (6-8 ounces)
• 2 Envy Apples
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• firm crackers

1. Unwrap brie and place on microwave-safe dish. Cut off top of brie round and microwave 60 seconds until middle is soft.
2. Slice apples into thick wedges.
3. Top brie with half the apples, crushed walnuts and dried cranberries.
4. Serve with firm crackers and remaining apple wedges.

Source: Envy Apples

(Culinary.net) There are few things better than festive holiday celebrations. Everyone is gathered around the table, ready to eat and enjoy the company. The atmosphere is joyful, the decorations are beautiful and the food is absolute perfection.

From warm casseroles to hearty proteins, most spreads are made of an array of colors with mouthwatering sides and desserts. However, there are some dishes the holidays just can’t happen without. One is a classic, traditional Sweet Cranberry Sauce. It’s popping with color and texture. Plus, it makes everything it tops taste just a little bit better.

This sauce is perfect for nearly any holiday celebration but is also a sweet treat that can be served over vanilla ice cream for dessert. It’s fruity with a hint of citrus and flavorful with a dash of ground cinnamon and a bit of ginger.

This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving and works well into the holiday season for all the other celebrations that likely dot your calendar. It’s a timeless dish but with a fresh and tangy twist that’s perfect for both gatherings with many guests or simple nights at home with those leftovers you just can’t resist.

Find more recipes perfect for celebrating the holidays at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Sweet Cranberry Sauce

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8

• 12        ounces cranberries
• 1          cup granulated sugar
• 1/4       cup orange juice
• 1/2       cup water
• 1 1/2    tablespoons ginger paste
• 1/8       tablespoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2          tablespoons orange zest
• vanilla ice cream (optional)

1. In large skillet over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, ginger paste, salt, ground cinnamon and orange zest.
2. Bring to simmer. Stir until thickened to desired consistency, 15 minutes.
3. Cool 30 minutes. Transfer to bowl. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes. Serve alone or over vanilla ice cream, if desired.