3 and a Half Things to Make with Clementines

Clementines make me happy.  And, I like to spread their happiness in my home, in our kitchen particularly. I frequently have a footed bowl filled with them on the counter.  It provides a burst of cheery, sunshiny color where my family can easily grab a few as they are going out the door or peel one or two while we are chatting while I am preparing dinner. They serve as a simple, decorating trick and they provide a quick burst of refreshment and a light little snack at the same time. They are easy to peel and no wonder some varieties are called "cuties."

Health Benefits of Clementines

Clementines do way more than look pretty and act cute.  Next time you pop one or two in your mouth, think about what else you are doing here:

What goes inside can make the outside look good, too.  Clementines are a great food for our skin.   The citric acid, Vitamin C and many other antioxidants are abundant in them, which aids in collagen creation and reduction of free-radical damage.

They clear things up.  Clementines contains a rich amount of ascorbic acid and beta carotene - both crucial for better vision.

Your trainer will be impressed. They are a great food for those watching the waistline. Clementines contain very low amounts of sugar and fat. The fiber in them makes you feel full and the hydration they provide help you feel satisfied as well.


The nose knows.  Like many in the citrus family, clementines have got a bright and deep aroma. Much like the orange essential oil, this smell can trigger relief from stress and allow your mind to awaken and become refreshed and energized.

How to Make 3 Healthy, Simple and Delicious Things with Clementines

It's true. I love my bowl of clementines that make for a beautiful and simple arrangement in my kitchen. I will consider that a bonus to the list of the things I like to do with my box of clementines. Allow me to share three other simple and quick things, too, I have made lately with those clementines brightening my kitchen decor:

1. Whip up a Sweet and Tangy Vinaigrette.

Toss your next plate of greens with this.  Add some segments of fresh clementines to the salad, a bit of sliced red onion and your favorite chopped nuts:

Gather

• 1/4 cup clementine juice
• 1/8 cup sherry vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• pinch of salt and pepper
• big pinch or two of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Now do this:

• Put in a jar with a lid and shake well.
• Taste and adjust seasonings.

2. Make a Fun Dipping Sauce.

Dip a summer roll, egg roll, grilled or baked chicken, roasted vegetables, etc. into this little number:

Gather

• 1/2 cup clementine juice
• 1/8 cup soy sauce (maybe a bit more depending on strength of soy sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon black sesame seeds

Now do this

• Whisk first 7 ingredients together to blend well.
• Taste and adjust seasonings.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

3.  Freeze a Low Calorie, Refreshing Dessert.

This granita is so light, so refreshing and so hydrating. And, if you really want to get fancy, serve it in- between courses at your next big soiree.

Gather

• 2 cups fresh clementine juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup raw honey

blender

Now do this

• Combine juices, water and honey in pan and heat gently until honey is liquefied. 
• Taste and adjust for sweetness.
• Pour liquid in shallow baking dish.
• Freeze uncovered for 3-4 hours until hard.
• With a fork, break granita into large chunks and put chunks in blender.
• Pulse a few times until the consistency of ice chips.
• Do not over pulse or you will liquefy it.
• Serve at once.

Need a bit more?

• I love granita - here is another yummy one I have made.

• Please don't toss your citrus peels. You can create all of this!

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