The Gloom of Winter

Here in the Northwest we don't have much sunshine for 3 to 5 months of the year.  Having being born, raised and lived in this part of the country for 50+ years now, let's just say I am used to it.  I also can happily say I have never been prone to the seasonal melancholia that strikes many folks during the winter months.  Every time the sun does peek out though I do feel a little lighter, just like the skies above.

On a positive note, the Winter season does bring us some beautiful citrus from warmer climes around the country and world. When it's gloomy outside, what better thing to eat than some refreshing vitamin C-filled fruit such as navel oranges, grapefruit and the amazing blood oranges that show up at the stores sometimes.

The first time I tried blood oranges was in Rome (oh, I hope that doesn't sound pretentious, but it's true!)  My friends and I sat down for breakfast in our hotel and the EXTREMELY handsome Roman waiter brought us a pitcher of thick, red juice and set it on our table.  Thinking it was tomato juice, I poured myself a glass, took a big swig and imagine my surprise when it tasted just like orange juice.  It was blood orange juice and it was remarkable.  I always try to pick up a few each citrus season so I can reminisce about my trip to Rome (and maybe that waiter just a little).

No recipe today, but just some suggestions.  Go buy a few pieces of nice looking citrus fruit, slice them any way you like, drizzle with a little honey and as I did, add a sprinkle or two of orange liqueur to brighten up your tastebuds and your life during these dark Winter days.