It’s Citrus Season: Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating

Citrus season is here, so let’s dive into all the juicy details! Learn about the different types of citrus fruit, why they deserve a spot in your kitchen, and clear up some common questions like is pineapple a citrus fruit? These vibrant, zesty fruits bring tons of flavor and health benefits—let's explore why they're such a game-changer!

Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating

Citrus fruits are in full swing this season, and honestly, they’re a total game-changer. I’ve been loving them in fresh juices like classic orange juice, zesty baked goods, and even savory dishes—they add such a bright, refreshing pop to everything. Plus, they’re packed with flavor + vitamins, so it’s a win all around.

With so many citrus options out there, it can definitely get a little confusing. There are so many types of citrus to explore—from classics like oranges and lemons to lesser-known gems like yuzu and pomelos.

Each one brings its own unique flavor, so it's worth trying a few and finding your favorites!

Jump to:

• Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating
• What Are Citrus Fruits?
• 10 Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating
• 1. Oranges
• 2. Grapefruits
• 3. Lemons
• 4. Limes
• 5. Tangerines
• 6. Mandarins
• 7. Pomelos
• 8. Blood Oranges
• 9. Yuzu
• 10. Clementines
• Can I Use The Zest of All Citrus Fruits?
• Commonly Asked Citrus Questions
• Why Should You Eat More Citrus Fruits?
• How to Enjoy Citrus Fruits
• Delicious Citrus Recipes You Might Enjoy
• DID THIS HELP IN ANY WAY?

What Are Citrus Fruits?

Citrus fruits are part of the Rutaceae family, known for their bold, tangy flavors and bright colors. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a healthy and refreshing addition to your diet. Whether you're tossing them in a salad, squeezing fresh juice, or just snacking on them, citrus fruits can add some serious flavor to your day.

10 Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating

Bright, juicy, and packed with flavor—these citrus fruits are a must for snacking, cooking, and everything in between.

1. Oranges

Oranges are probably the most recognizable citrus fruit. From navel oranges to Valencia, they’re sweet, juicy, and perfect for snacking or juicing. Oranges are a classic, and they’re loaded with vitamin C to keep you feeling your best.

ORANGE RECIPES TO TRY:

• Takeout Orange Chicken
• Fluffy Homemade Orange Cinnamon Rolls
• Superfood Honey Orange Granola
• Creamy Spiced Orange Cheesecake
• Orange Thyme Ice Cubes
• Orange Salmon Bowl

2. Grapefruits

If you like a little bitterness to balance out your sweetness, grapefruits are where it's at. They come in pink, red, and white varieties, each with its own level of tanginess. Grapefruits are awesome for breakfast or as a snack (or in cake like this Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake), and they pack a punch of antioxidants.

3. Lemons

Lemons are a must-have for adding a fresh zing to just about anything. Whether you’re using them in cooking, baking, or making lemonade, lemons are perfect for adding that bright, tangy flavor. Plus, they’re super versatile in both sweet and savory dishes

MY TOP LEMON RECIPES

• Lemon Brown Butter Pasta
• Lemon Ginger Bundt Cake
• Crispy Lemon Herb Quinoa
• Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Wings
• Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes

4. Limes

Limes are like lemons' tangy little cousins, and they’re a key ingredient in a ton of delicious dishes. From margaritas to guacamole, limes add a burst of citrusy goodness. They’re perfect for adding a fresh pop to your meals and drinks. And if you want to try something a little more unique with lime, try this Candied Frozen Sour Grapes recipe.

5. Tangerines

Tangerines are sweet, easy to peel, and perfect for snacking. They’re a little less tangy than other citrus fruits, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re packed with vitamin C, so you can snack guilt-free!

6. Mandarins

Mandarins are pretty much tangerines’ delicate siblings. They’re small, sweet, and easy to peel, making them great for snacking or tossing into a fruit salad. Their flavor is perfect if you’re not into anything too tart.

7. Pomelos

Pomelos are the big, juicy cousins of grapefruits. They’re less bitter and much sweeter, with a mild flavor that’s perfect for fruit salads or just enjoying on their own. They’re the largest citrus fruit, so they’ll fill you up with all the good stuff!

8. Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are seriously something special. With their deep red flesh and sweet-tangy flavor, they instantly make any dish feel a little fancier. Whether you’re juicing them (See my Blood Orange Juice recipe), tossing them into a salad, or just enjoying that bold citrusy bite, blood oranges are a fun (and delicious) twist on the usual.

9. Yuzu

Maybe you haven’t heard of it, but yuzu is a small, yellow citrus fruit that’s big in East Asia, especially Japan. It’s got a super fragrant, tangy flavor that’s not quite as sour as a lemon but still gives your dishes a nice citrusy kick. You usually won’t eat it raw, but the zest and juice are perfect for adding a fresh twist to sauces + dressings, and desserts

10. Clementines

Clementines are like the perfect little citrus snack. They’re sweet, easy to peel, and completely seedless, making them ideal for a quick, no-fuss treat. Whether you’re tossing them in your bag for a midday snack or serving them at a gathering, clementines are always a hit. Plus, their bright, refreshing flavor makes them a go-to favorite for kids!

Can I Use The Zest of All Citrus Fruits?

Yes! You can zest pretty much any citrus fruit—lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, and even yuzu. The zest is packed with essential oils and gives a great burst of flavor to anything from savory dishes to desserts. Just be sure to zest the peel before you cut the fruit!

Commonly Asked Citrus Questions

Is pineapple a citrus fruit?

Okay, here’s a question that comes up a lot—is pineapple a citrus fruit? The short answer: nope. While pineapple is just as sweet and tangy as citrus fruits, it’s actually part of the Bromeliaceae family. But don’t worry, pineapple’s tropical flavor still makes it an amazing fruit to pair with your favorite citrus fruits in smoothies, fruit salads, or desserts.

Why do different types of citrus fruits make your mouth feel weird sometimes?

That’s usually from the natural acidity and oils in the peel or juice. It’s totally normal—especially if you go heavy on the zest or eat lots of sour varieties.

Is strawberry a citrus fruit?

So, is strawberry a citrus fruit? Also, no! Strawberries belong to the Rosaceae family, not the Rutaceae family like citrus fruits. However, they do share a similar sweet-tart flavor and are packed with vitamin C, so they’re still an awesome fruit to enjoy alongside citrus in all kinds of dishes.

Do citrus fruits help when you’re sick?

They sure can! Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Plus, they’re hydrating and refreshing when you’re feeling under the weather.

Why Should You Eat More Citrus Fruits?

Citrus fruits are not just delicious; they’re packed with health benefits! Here’s why you should be eating more of them:

• Packed with vitamin C: Citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and keeps your skin healthy.
• Antioxidant power: They’re rich in antioxidants that protect your cells from damage and support overall health.
• Low in calories: If you're looking to keep things light, citrus fruits are naturally low in calories, making them perfect for snacking without the guilt.
• Flavor boost: Their tangy, refreshing flavors can brighten up everything from smoothies and salads to savory dishes and baked goods.
• Hydration: Many citrus fruits have high water content, helping you stay hydrated throughout the day.

How to Enjoy Citrus Fruits

There are so many ways to enjoy citrus fruits, it’s almost impossible to get bored. Here are a few ideas:

• Fresh. Whether you slice them up or just peel and eat, citrus fruits are perfect for a quick snack.
• In salads. Add citrus segments to your salad for a pop of color + flavor.
• In desserts. Use lemon or lime zest and juice in cakes, cheesecakes, pies, or tarts for a citrusy twist.
• In drinks. Fresh citrus juice is perfect for lemonade, cocktails (or mocktails), or just a refreshing splash of flavor.
• In cooking. Use citrus zest or juice to marinate meat or dress up a simple dish.

I truly hope you loved this juicy little guide to citrus! If you're feeling extra curious and want to explore even more unique varieties (hello, Finger Limes and Buddha's Hand!), I highly recommend checking out this post from The Spruce Eats—it’s full of fun and unusual citrus finds.

Delicious Citrus Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved learning about all the different types of citrus, then check out these recipes to try next:

• Lemon Coconut Cake
• Blood Orange Strawberry Mocktail
• Spicy Orange Chicken Wings
• Iced Lemon Loaf Pound Cake
• Orange Thyme Ice Cubes
• Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning

DID THIS HELP IN ANY WAY?

If you've learned anything from Types of Citrus Fruit You Should Be Eating or given any recipes on my website a go, I'd truly appreciate it if you could share your experience by leaving a ⭐ star rating and dropping your thoughts in the 📝  comments below. Your feedback means a lot, and I love hearing from you on your wellness journey!

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