7 Best Oranges to Eat

Do you love oranges?

If yes, you'll be happy to know that there are different types of oranges and mandarins you can eat, each with its own unique taste, aroma, and texture.

The best oranges to eat include:

1. Navel oranges - Citrus sinensis
2. Valencia oranges - Citrus sinensis
3. Blood oranges - Citrus sinensis
4. Cara Cara oranges - Citrus sinensis
5. Mandarin oranges - Citrus reticulata
6. Tangerines - Citrus reticulata
7. Clementines - Citrus reticulata

In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the most delicious oranges and mandarins and explore their distinct characteristics, including their taste and aroma profiles.

We'll also share some easy and delicious recipes that you can try to make the most out of your oranges.

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Citrus family

The citrus family, scientifically known as Rutaceae, is a large and diverse group of flowering plants that includes many commercially important fruit crops, including oranges, mandarins, lemons, limes and grapefruits.

Citrus plants are typically evergreen shrubs or small trees with fragrant leaves and showy white flowers that give rise to the fruits.

Members of the citrus family are widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world and are valued for their delicious flavor and high nutritional value.

With their fragrant aroma and juicy, flavorful flesh, citrus fruits are a beloved and essential part of many cuisines around the world.

Sweet orange vs. bitter orange 

Sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis) and bitter oranges (Citrus aurantium) are two different types of oranges with distinct characteristics and uses.

Sweet varieties include naval oranges, blood oranges, Valencia oranges, and cara cara oranges. Sweet oranges are the most commonly consumed type of oranges and are popular for their sweet and juicy flavor. They are often eaten raw, used in desserts, juices, smoothies, and jams. 

Bitter oranges, on the other hand, have a sour and bitter taste. Bitter oranges include the Seville orange and bergamot orange. Bitter oranges are used in marinades, jellies and marmalades, sauces, and salad dressings.

Overall, both sweet and bitter oranges have their unique flavor and culinary applications. 

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Oranges vs. mandarins

Are mandarins a type of orange?

Mandarins are often referred to as "mandarin oranges," but technically speaking, they are a separate species from the sweet orange.

The scientific name for orange is Citrus sinensis, while the scientific name for mandarin is Citrus reticulata.

Mandarins are a smaller and sweeter variety of citrus fruit, with a thin, easy-to-peel skin and a fragrant, juicy interior. While they are related to oranges and share many of the same health benefits, there are some key differences between the two fruits in terms of taste, texture, and appearance.

Are tangerines a type of orange?

While tangerines are closely related to oranges, they are not technically considered a type of orange. Tangerines are a specific variety of mandarin, which is a type of citrus fruit that is closely related to oranges.

Tangerines are a larger and more tart variety of mandarin, with a bright orange, slightly rough skin and a sweet and tangy flavor. 

Are clementines a type of orange?

Clementines are a type of mandarin, which is closely related to oranges, but they are not technically considered a type of orange. Clementines are a specific hybrid variety of mandarin, believed to be a cross between a mandarin and a sweet orange. They are smaller and sweeter than regular mandarins, with a thin, easy-to-peel skin and seedless flesh. While clementines share many nutritional and health benefits with oranges, they have a distinct flavor and appearance that sets them apart.

Clementines are a smaller and sweeter variety of mandarin, with a smooth, glossy, and deep orange skin.

Despite their differences in taste and appearance, mandarins, tangerines and clementines are packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also incredibly easy to peel, making them a convenient and healthy snack for people of all ages.

Oranges are highly nutritious

Oranges and clementines are highly nutritious and are a great source of many important vitamins and minerals.

One medium-sized orange provides around 70 milligrams of vitamin C, which is more than the recommended daily intake for adults.

Oranges are also a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining digestive health and can also help lower cholesterol levels.

In addition, oranges are a good source of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and proper nerve and muscle function.

Oranges also contain small amounts of other important vitamins and minerals, including thiamine, folate, and calcium.

Overall, oranges are a nutrient-dense fruit that can help you meet your daily recommended intake of many important vitamins and minerals.

1. Navel Oranges

Navel oranges are one of the most popular types of oranges in the world. They are named after the small, belly button-like indentation on one end of the fruit. Navel oranges are seedless, easy to peel, and have a sweet and tangy flavor. 

Navel oranges have a sweet and slightly floral aroma. The fragrance is very citrusy and fresh, with a hint of tanginess.

Navel oranges have a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of acidity. The flavor is bright and refreshing, with notes of citrus and a slightly floral undertone. The flesh is juicy and tender, with few to no seeds.

Recipe: Navel Orange and Arugula Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 navel oranges
• 4 cups of arugula
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice the navel oranges.
2. In a large bowl, mix the arugula, feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the arugula mixture and toss to coat.
5. Arrange the navel orange slices on top of the salad and serve.

 

2. Valencia Oranges

Valencia oranges are a sweet variety of orange that are known for their juicy flesh and thin skin. 

Valencia oranges are typically harvested in the late spring and summer months, and they are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Because of their high juice content and sweet flavor, Valencia oranges are often used for making orange juice and other citrus-based beverages. They are also delicious eaten fresh, used in salads or as a garnish, and incorporated into a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes.

Recipe: Valencia Orange and Beet Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 Valencia oranges
• 4 medium beets
• 4 cups of baby spinach
• 1/4 cup of crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Trim the ends off the beets and wrap them in foil. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until tender.
3. Peel the roasted beets and slice them into thin rounds.
4. Peel and slice the Valencia oranges.
5. In a large bowl, mix the baby spinach, sliced beets, and Valencia orange slices.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
8. Top with crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts and serve.

3. Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are a unique type of orange with a deep red or maroon flesh. They are sweeter and less acidic than other types of oranges, with a hint of raspberry flavor.

Recipe: Blood Orange Sorbet

Ingredients:

• 4 blood oranges
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of water

Instructions:

1. Juice the blood oranges and strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the sugar and water over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Add the blood orange juice to the sugar
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze for 30 minutes.
5. Remove from the freezer and use a fork to break up any ice crystals that have formed.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours, or until the sorbet is smooth and frozen.
7. Serve the blood orange sorbet in scoops.

4. Cara Cara Oranges

Cara Cara oranges are a type of navel orange with a bright pink or red flesh. They are sweet and juicy with a flavor similar to that of regular navel oranges, but with notes of cherry, berry, and rose.

Cara Caras are also slightly less acidic than other oranges, which makes them a popular choice for juicing. These oranges are a popular choice for both snacking and cooking, as their unique color and flavor can add a vibrant touch to any dish.

Recipe: Cara Cara Orange and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 Cara Cara oranges
• 2 avocados
• 4 cups of mixed greens
• 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice the Cara Cara oranges.
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and slice into thin pieces.
3. In a large bowl, mix the mixed greens, sliced Cara Cara oranges, sliced avocado, and sliced almonds.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Serve the Cara Cara orange and avocado salad immediately.

5. Mandarin Oranges

The scientific name of the mandarin orange is Citrus reticulata.

Tangerines and clementines are both popular varieties of mandarins, which are a type of citrus fruit that originated in Asia.

Mandarin oranges have a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of acidity. They are less acidic and less tart than regular oranges, and they have a delicate floral aroma. The aroma and flavor of mandarins can vary depending on the variety, as there are many different types of mandarins, including the Clementine, Satsuma, and Honey mandarin. Some mandarins have a more intense and complex flavor profile with notes of honey, spice, or even a slight bitterness. Overall, mandarins are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and refreshing aroma, making them a popular fruit for snacking and cooking.

Mandarin Orange Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 4 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, mandarin oranges, red onion, almonds, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

6. Tangerines

Tangerines are a type of citrus fruit that belong to the mandarin family. They are smaller and easier to peel than most oranges, and have a distinct sweet and tangy taste. Tangerines are often confused with clementines, but they are actually a different variety of mandarin. Tangerines have a bright orange, thin and loose skin that is easy to peel, and their flesh is juicy and usually seedless. They are known for their unique aroma, which is a mix of sweet and slightly floral notes.

7. Clementines

Clementines are a type of small, seedless citrus fruit that is easy to peel and has a sweet and juicy flavor. They are a hybrid fruit that is a cross between a sweet orange and a mandarin orange.

Clementines have a sweet and slightly tangy taste with a fragrant aroma that is reminiscent of other citrus fruits. Their thin skin is easy to peel, which makes them a convenient and tasty snack for on-the-go or as a quick addition to salads and desserts.

Recipe: Clementine and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 clementines, peeled and segmented
• 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the clementine segments, diced avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Summary

Oranges are not only a great source of nutrition, but they also offer a wide range of aromas and flavors that can delight the senses.

Sweet oranges like navel and Valencia have a bright and juicy flavor with subtle floral notes, while blood oranges have a distinctive, tangy flavor with hints of raspberry and grapefruit. Tangerines and clementines, on the other hand, have a more delicate flavor with a sweeter and less acidic taste, and a citrusy aroma that is perfect for snacking.

Whether you prefer the sharp, pungent aroma of bitter oranges or the delicate, floral notes of sweet oranges, there is an orange out there to suit every taste and preference. So, next time you reach for an orange, take a moment to savor its unique aroma and flavor and appreciate the sensory experience it offers.

Do you love oranges?

Try our luxury Wild Orange Oil Cleanser.

 

Author Information

Dr. Natasha Ryz is a scientist, skin care expert and an entrepreneur. She is the founder of Dry Skin Love Skincare, and she creates skincare products for beauty, dry skin and pain relief.

Dr. Ryz has a PhD in Experimental Medicine from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, and she is a Vanier scholar. She also holds a Master of Science degree and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg.

Natasha is the former Chief Science Officer of Zenabis Global, and she oversaw extraction, analytics, and product development. Her team brought 20 products to market including oils, sprays, vapes and softgels.

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