About two years ago, we tried our first Cara Cara orange. While sweet, tangy blood oranges have have been popular the past few years, we feel Cara Caras deserve as much, if not more, hype. Orange on the outside, bright pink on the inside, this fruit is thought to be a cross between a typical navel orange and Brazillian Bahia navels, giving it its pink color and unique flavor. This time of year, Phoenicians have a lot of fresh, juicy citrus to choose from, both in markets from local groves and neighborhood trees, but after one taste, we bet Cara Caras will be your new favorite.
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Price: $1.50 per pound
Vendor: McClendon's Select
Where to Pick It Up: Town and Country Farmers Market, open Wednesday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., Old Town Farmers Market, open Saturday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.
What Else to Grab: Ruby Chard ($2.50 per bunch) for a salad featuring your Cara Cara oranges and Heirloom Crimson Gold Apples ($2.50 per pound) just because they're tiny and adorable
The Cara Cara orange is sweet and slightly floral with a distinct berry flavor. It also is less acidic than a standard navel orange, making it a great addition to unique wintery salads. The sweetness plays well with bitter greens like chard and broccoli rabe, which McClendon's carries. One of our favorite salads combines Cara Cara oranges, sliced fennel, parsley, and mint, along with a drizzle of olive oil. However, the explosively juicy Cara Cara orange is the perfect snack on its own and easy to stash in your bag for a break during your work day, as long as you make sure to keep your outfit and any important paperwork clear of it.
