Fruit has some history rooted in holiday traditions. This time of year it’s easy to fill up on sugary sweets, baked goods and delectable finger food. Try and take note from tradition and incorporate some fruit (and vegetables, of course) as you celebrate this year!
The history of hanging Christmas stockings dates back to an ancient tradition starting in the third century, St. Nicholas charitably threw gold coins down the chimney of a house to spare the orphaned girls who lived there from being sold into slavery. The tale says some of the coins landed in stockings the girls had hung by the fire to dry. Ever since, gold “coins,” balls and specifically, oranges have symbolized Nicholas’ generous gift.
Add some fruit to a stocking this year. A quote, attributed to Roseanne Russell, reads “The orange has its place you know, to fill each Christmas stocking toe.” Or add fruit to your holiday meal planning.
Incorporating fruit into your diet during these wintry months has its benefits. Buying in-season will not only add variety to your diet, but it’s typically cheaper to buy in-season fruit.
These fruits are in season during the winter. See some fruits you aren’t familiar with? It’s never too late to try something new:
- Bananas
- Clementines
- Cranberries
- Grapefruit
- Kiwi
- Kumquat
- Oranges
- Pears (some varieties)
- Persimmons
- Pomegranates
- Pummelos
- Tangelos
- Tangerines
