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The navel orange is a type of citrus fruit that is native to Brazil. It was first discovered in the early 1800s as a spontaneous mutation on a sweet orange tree. The mutation caused the orange to develop a small, second fruit at the blossom end, which resembles a human bellybutton. This is how the navel orange got its name.

In the 1830s, navel oranges were introduced to Florida and in the 1870s to California. They quickly became popular in these regions due to their sweet flavor, juicy flesh, and seedlessness. Today, navel oranges are one of the most popular citrus fruits in the world. They are grown in many different countries, including Brazil, the United States, Spain, and South Africa.

Here are some interesting facts about navel oranges:

The navel orange is a naturally seedless fruit. This is because the second fruit at the blossom end does not fully develop.

Navel oranges are grown by grafting. This means that all navel orange trees are clones of the original tree that was discovered in Brazil.

Navel oranges are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Navel oranges are often eaten fresh, but they can also be used in salads, desserts, and other dishes.

The navel orange is a delicious and nutritious fruit that has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. It is a testament to the power of nature that a single mutation on a tree could give rise to such a popular and beloved fruit.





Featured Recipe:


Navel Orange Salad:

Ingredients:

    4 navel oranges
    1 small red onion, thinly sliced
    1 cup mixed salad greens
    1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
    1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
    Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

For the dressing:

    2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
    1 tablespoon honey
    1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

    Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice,
    honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

    Peel the navel oranges, removing the outer skin and white pith. Slice the oranges into thin
    rounds or segment them into small pieces. Place the orange slices in a large salad bowl.

    Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with the orange slices.

    Pour the dressing over the oranges and onions. Gently toss to coat them well. Let the flavors
    marinate for about 10 minutes.

    Just before serving, add the mixed salad greens to the bowl and toss gently to combine.

    Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the salad.

    Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

    Serve the Navel Orange Salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish to complement
    your main course.

Enjoy the bright and citrusy flavors of this delicious Navel Orange Salad!










This site is not affiliated in any way with the US Navy, the US government, or any other agency, service or institution. This site is about navels, not navals. Were you looking for the US Naval Academy? Well, first learn to spell, then perhaps click here .
Friday, 09 May 2025 08:28:36 UTC