In Australia, August marks the heart of citrus season, making it the perfect time to enjoy fresh, juicy oranges at their peak. Bursting with vibrant flavour and natural sweetness, Australian oranges are harvested locally throughout Winter and early Spring, offering both a delicious taste and a nutritional boost.
Selecting the best oranges
When selecting oranges, look for fruit that feels heavy for its size - a good indicator of juiciness. The skin should be firm, smooth and bright in colour, whether you're choosing navels, Valencias or blood oranges. A slight give under gentle pressure is fine, but avoid any with soft spots, mould, or shrivelling.
Storage and freezing tips
To store oranges at home, keep them in a fruit bowl out of direct sunlight if you’ll eat them within a week. For longer freshness, store them in the fridge crisper drawer, where they can last up to three weeks.
Oranges can also be frozen: peel and segment them first, or juice them and freeze in ice cube trays for smoothies, dressings or baking.
Health benefits
Aside from their vibrant taste, oranges are a powerhouse of nutrition. They’re rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health and packed with antioxidants, fibre and potassium - all essential for heart health and overall wellbeing. Low in calories and high in hydration, they’re a naturally energising snack during the cooler months.
With their sunny flavour and versatility, Australian oranges are a seasonal standout - perfect for fresh eating, juicing, zesting, or brightening up both sweet and savoury dishes this August.
Here are three ways to put oranges on the plate this week:
Zesty and aromatic, the pairing of orange and thyme offers a vibrant balance of citrusy sweetness and earthy herbaceousness. Orange brings bright, juicy notes, while thyme adds a subtle savoury depth.
Together, they create a refreshing and sophisticated flavour combination perfect for both sweet and savoury dishes. Try this sweet and tangy orange-thyme marinade the next time chicken is on the menu. It makes a deliciously easy dinner.
Lamb, orange and mustard create a bold, balanced flavour trio. Rich, savoury lamb is elevated by the bright citrus tang of orange, while mustard adds a zesty heat and sharpness. Together, they cut through the meat’s richness, enhancing depth and creating a vibrant, mouth-watering harmony of sweet, spicy and savoury.
This recipe is an explosion of vibrant flavour - try it for yourself and see how good it really is.
Need some dinner inspiration for this weekend? Try these simple-to-make pork spare ribs served with jasmine rice and veggies. It's full of sensational flavour, courtesy of orange, chilli and ginger.
