Pucker Up

Texas-grown citrus—juicy globes of fragrant deliciousness—hit the shelves in November, and they’ll be abundant through March. Check the Web site of TexaSweet Citrus Marketing, www.texasweet.com, for recipes galore and for such treats as Texas citrus salsa, salads, and desserts. Here’s an easy margarita recipe guaranteed to tickle you pink: To make two 6-ounce Texas Rio Rita Margaritas, combine 2 ounces each of tequila, orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier), and lime juice. Add a little sugar and 6 ounces of freshly squeezed Texas grapefruit juice. Pour over ice and strain. ¡Salud!

Can’t get enough citrus? There’s no better time to explore the Rio Grande Valley than January, when you’ll find bushels of gleaming, juicy fruit for sale at the abundant roadside markets. Then, too, folks in Mission host the 76th Annual Texas Citrus Fiesta the last weekend in January. After the coronation of Queen Citrianna and King Citrus on Thursday, Friday’s events include a citrus-themed fashion show, featuring costumes made of Valley fruits and vegetables. For out-of-towners, Saturday’s the big day: art exhibits, a carnival, live music, a cookoff, and vendors selling everything from pound cake to juicers. Later, the colorful and flamboyant Parade of Oranges marches down Mission’s historic Conway Street. Thousands of festival-goers make this annual event one of the Valley’s most popular celebrations. For more information, call 956/585-9724; www.missionchamber.com.

From the January 2004 issue.

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