Out of this World

The oranges in Sicily are out of this world!

Since the end of November, we’ve been greedily gobbling up these deliciously juicy and sweet fruits in a variety of ways. In any given week, we probably consume 3kg of oranges! We can look forward to enjoying them through the end of February! Fruit vendors are parked along the streets and sell any fruit and vegetable that is in season.

There are a number of varieties of oranges grown in Sicily. They are all delicious! Blood orange varieties are Moro, Tarocco, Sanguinello and the sweet Navelina.

Here are a few recipes that we really love using these wonderful oranges. Don’t worry, you absolutely can replicate these recipes at home using oranges that you purchase from your local grocery store. I’ll admit the flavors won’t be quite as deep, but you’ll at least gain an appreciation for the deliciousness of these not often paired flavors on your palate. All recipes serve 4-6 adults.

Recipe #1

• 4 Blood Oranges, peeled and sliced (about ¼” wide)
• 1-2 apples (Any firm variety, like Pink Lady)
• ¼ Red onion, sliced paper thin
• ¼ cup of capers (rinsed very thoroughly)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• a few drops of a very good balsamic vinegar
• ground pepper to taste
• Toss everything and serve

Recipe #2

• 4 Blood Oranges, peeled and sliced (about ¼” wide)
• 2 medium tomatoes cut into small wedges
• ¼ Red onion, sliced paper thin
• ¼ cup of capers (rinsed very thoroughly)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• a few drops of a very good balsamic vinegar
• ground pepper to taste
• Toss everything and serve

Recipe #3

• 4 Blood Oranges, peeled and sliced (about ¼” wide)
• ½ head of red leaf lettuce
• ¼ Red onion, sliced paper thin
• ¼ cup of capers (rinsed very thoroughly)
• 1 medium tomato cut into small wedges
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• a few drops of a very good balsamic vinegar
• ground pepper to taste

Please visit us at our travel site, Sicily Connect, for the latest on tours to Sicily

As many of you may know, coming to Sicily was a homecoming of sorts for Franca—her father was born here; a search for the longing, purpose and place universal to every human being. Having the opportunity now to share her journey and this incredible place with others is truly part of a wonderful love story.