The best winter fruits to boost your health this season

Dec 5, 2024

winter fruits

Winter isn’t just a season for cosy blankets and warm drinks; it’s also perfect for loading up on winter fruits.

These seasonal gems are packed with nutrients that boost your immune system, keep your skin glowing, and give you the energy to thrive in the colder months.

Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness — winter fruits bring vibrant flavours and essential health benefits to your meals.

And the best part? With Bolt Market, you can get the freshest seasonal fruits delivered straight to your door to enjoy the season’s best without stepping into the cold.

In this article, we’ll explore the top winter fruits, their health benefits, and sweet recipes to enjoy them in simple and delicious ways.

Orange

Bright, zesty, and bursting with flavour — oranges are the ultimate winter fruits.

Fighting off a cold or want something refreshing? This citrus fruit is packed with nutrients and offers the perfect blend of sweetness and tang.

Health benefits

Orange health benefits

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for keeping the immune system strong during the colder months.

They’re loaded with antioxidants that fight inflammation and keep your skin looking radiant. Plus, they’re naturally hydrating — perfect for staying energised when winter feels a little draining.

Season

Oranges hit their peak season in winter, from late autumn to February.

How to enjoy

Snack on them fresh, squeeze them into juice, or toss segments into a salad for a burst of colour and flavour.

Sweet orange and honey yoghurt parfait recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 sweet orange, peeled and segmented
  • 200g Greek yoghurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Granola of your choice

Instructions:

  1. Layer the Greek yoghurt, orange segments, and granola in a glass.
  2. Drizzle honey over the top.
  3. Enjoy immediately as a quick breakfast or a healthy dessert.

Order the juiciest oranges and all your essentials — honey, yoghurt, granola, and more — straight from Bolt Market.

Grapefruit

You cut into it, expecting orange, but it’s ruby red — surprise, it’s a grapefruit! With its bold tartness and subtle sweetness, grapefruit brings a refreshing twist to your plate.

Health benefits

Grapefruit health benefits

Grapefruit, like oranges, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, including lycopene — a powerful compound linked to heart health. It also stands out for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.

Season

Grapefruit is at its peak from late autumn to early spring.

How to enjoy

Slice it in half, sprinkle it with sugar or honey, and enjoy with a spoon. For a delicious twist, add it to salads and smoothies.

Grapefruit and avocado salad recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • Mixed greens (spinach, rocket, or kale)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Toss the mixed greens with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add grapefruit segments and avocado slices on top.
  3. Enjoy!

Note: don’t mistake grapefruits for blood oranges — they’re both red, but blood oranges have a berry-like sweet flavour and a richer, deeper hue in their flesh.

Pomegranate

Opening a pomegranate feels like discovering a treasure chest filled with ruby-red jewels.

And it truly is a treasure — delicious, healthy, and packed with flavour. What else could you ask from a winter fruit?

Health benefits

Pomegranate health benefits

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, particularly punicalagin and anthocyanins, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.

They’re also an excellent source of fibre and vitamin C, which help to keep digestion in check and the immune system strong.

Season

Pomegranates are in their prime from late autumn to early winter.

How to enjoy

Add the seeds to smoothies, sprinkle them over yoghurt, or toss them into salads for a pop of colour.

Pomegranate and walnut salad recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pomegranate, seeds removed
  • 1 handful of walnuts, chopped
  • Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, toss the mixed greens with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the pomegranate seeds and chopped walnuts on top.
  3. Serve and enjoy!

How to open a pomegranate easily: cut off the top to reveal the white lines inside. Use those lines as a guide to cut the fruit into sections. Gently pull the sections apart and remove the seeds.

Kiwi

So fuzzy and unassuming from the outside — who could guess that kiwi would be so tasty and juicy on the inside?

It’s a small fruit with a big personality.

Health benefits

kiwi health benefits

This small fruit is a vitamin C powerhouse, offering more per gram than oranges. 

Kiwi is also packed with antioxidants that promote glowing skin and support overall skin health. Additionally, it contains nutrients like serotonin and magnesium, which may help improve sleep quality and relaxation.

Season

Kiwi is at its peak from late autumn to spring.

How to enjoy

Kiwi’s bold flavour makes it a great snack as is — just scoop it out with a spoon! It’s also perfect in fruit salads, smoothies, or as a garnish for desserts.

Kiwi and coconut smoothie recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced
  • 200ml coconut milk
  • 1 banana
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • A handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Blend the kiwi, coconut milk, banana, and ice cubes until smooth.
  2. Taste and add honey if you prefer extra sweetness.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy this tropical twist in winter!

Pro tip: Instead of slicing your kiwi in half, scoop it with a spoon. Or, for the adventurous, wash it thoroughly and eat it whole — the skin is completely edible and adds an extra fibre boost.

Clementine

Clementines are a winter favourite for more than just their sweet, sunny flavour. Packed with vitamins and natural energy, they’re a perfect on-the-go snack to keep you feeling refreshed and nourished.

Clementine vs. mandarin orange vs. tangerine: what’s the difference?

  • Mandarin orange: the parent of all three fruits, mandarin oranges are slightly larger, less sweet, and seedier compared to clementines. They’re the broad category that tangerines and clementines fall under.
  • Tangerine: a variety of mandarin, tangerines are darker in colour, have a thicker skin, and usually contain seeds. They’re known for their tangy flavour.
  • Clementine: the smallest and sweetest of the three, clementines are seedless and have a thin, easy-to-peel skin. They’re the most convenient choice for snacking.

Health benefits

clementine health benefits

Apart from vitamin C, clementines are also a great source of potassium, which supports hydration and keeps your energy levels steady.

Plus, their natural sweetness can satisfy sugar cravings without any guilt.

Season

Clementines are at their juiciest from November to February.

How to enjoy

Peeling a clementine is as easy as it gets! Enjoy them fresh, toss segments into a salad, or pair them with a handful of nuts.

Clementine chocolate bark recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 clementines, peeled and segmented
  • 200g dark chocolate, melted
  • A sprinkle of sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Dip half of each clementine segment into the melted dark chocolate and place it on the tray.
  3. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and chill in the fridge until the chocolate sets.

Persimmon

Golden, glossy, and almost glowing, persimmons are seasonal treats that feel like pure indulgence.

Health benefits

Persimmon health benefits

Packed with vitamin A and antioxidants, persimmons support healthy vision and glowing skin. They’re also rich in dietary fibre and vitamin C.

Their natural sweet flavour makes them a great substitute for sugary snacks.

Season

Persimmons are at their peak during autumn and winter, typically from October to December.

How to enjoy

When soft and ripe, persimmons can be scooped out with a spoon and enjoyed as a natural dessert. Firmer ones are perfect for slicing into salads or pairing with cheese for an elevated snack.

Persimmon and walnut toast recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe persimmon, thinly sliced
  • 2 slices of whole-grain bread
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)
  • A handful of walnuts, chopped
  • A drizzle of honey

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
  2. Spread cream cheese evenly on each slice.
  3. Top with persimmon slices and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
  4. Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.

Juicy persimmons, creamy spreads, and crunchy walnuts — everything you need is just a tap away on Bolt Market.

Pomelo

It’s the largest of all citrus fruits, with a thick rind that hides juicy, mildly sweet segments inside. Think of it as grapefruit’s sweeter, less tangy cousin.

Pomelo is a refreshing winter treat that’s absolutely worth the peeling effort — whether you’re snacking on it solo or adding it to recipes.

Health benefits

Pomelo health benefits

It’s a citrus fruit, so of course it’s packed with vitamin C. But pomelo offers more — it’s loaded with potassium, supporting heart health and hydration.

Its high water content keeps you refreshed, while its fibre aids digestion.

Season

Pomelo thrives in late autumn and winter, with its peak season stretching from October to February.

How to enjoy

Pomelo is perfect as a stand-alone snack or in salads, desserts, or even smoothies. Its mildly sweet segments can elevate any dish you pair it with.

Pomelo and shrimp salad recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pomelo, peeled and segmented
  • 200g cooked shrimp
  • Mixed greens (like spinach or rocket)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Arrange the mixed greens on a plate.
  2. Top with pomelo segments and cooked shrimp.
  3. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad.
  4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve fresh.

Pear

Smooth on the outside, juicy and slightly grainy on the inside, pears feel like comfort in every bite.

Whether you enjoy them fresh, baked, or poached, their sweet flavour and versatility make them a must-have during the winter.

Health benefits

pear health benefits

Pears are a great source of dietary fibre, supporting digestion and keeping you full for longer. They’re also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Season

Pears are in their prime during the winter months, with varieties like Bosc, Bartlett, and Anjou available from late autumn to winter. Store them in a dark place to keep them fresh for longer.

How to enjoy

Pears are incredibly versatile. Slice them onto a salad, roast them for a savoury side dish, or enjoy them fresh as a quick snack.

Honey-baked pears with walnuts recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe pears, halved and cored
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • A handful of walnuts, chopped
  • A pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
  3. Drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with walnuts and cinnamon.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the pears are tender.
  5. Serve warm as a dessert or breakfast treat.

Pro tip: To ripen pears quickly, store them in a paper bag with a ripe banana. Once ripe, refrigerate them to extend their freshness for up to a week.

Apple

Crisp, juicy, and endlessly versatile, apples are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Whether you like them sweet, tart, or somewhere in between, apples are the go-to fruit for snacking, baking, or adding a natural burst of flavour to your recipes.

Health benefits

apple health benefits

Apples are packed with dietary fibre, promoting digestion and keeping you satisfied longer. They’re a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system during the winter season. Apples also contain plant compounds like quercetin, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Season

While apples are available year-round, many varieties — like Fuji, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp — are at their best during the autumn and winter months.

How to enjoy

Apples shine in every form. Bite into one, slice them into a salad, bake them into pies, or use them for spiced cider during chilly evenings.

Cinnamon baked apple recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 apples, cored
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • A handful of raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
  • A splash of water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the cored apples in a baking dish and fill the centres with brown sugar, cinnamon, and raisins or nuts if desired.
  3. Add a splash of water to the dish to prevent sticking.
  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the apples are tender.
  5. Serve warm with a dollop of yoghurt or cream.

Apples are one of the most popular items on Bolt Market — and it’s no surprise. From snacking to baking, they’re a must-have for every kitchen. 🍎

Lemon

Is there anything more refreshing than the bright, zesty tang of a lemon? They add flavour to both sweet and savoury dishes.

From lemonade to lemon meringue pie, lemons are the versatile winter fruit that can do it all.

Regular lemons vs. Meyer lemons

Regular lemons are bright yellow, tangy, and slightly bitter. Meyer lemons, on the other hand, are smaller, rounder, and sweeter, with a thin, deep yellow-orange skin.

Health benefits

lemon health benefits

Lemons are packed with vitamin C — you probably already knew that. But they’re also a good source of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Need more benefits? Lemons are known to aid digestion, freshen breath, and even help with weight management.

Season

While lemons are available year-round, they’re at their peak during the winter months. This is when you’ll find the juiciest, most flavourful fresh lemons to brighten up your days.

How to enjoy

Squeeze them over fish or chicken, use the juice to make salad dressings, add slices to your water for a refreshing twist, or use both the zest and juice in baking.

Lemon and herb roasted chicken recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • A few sprigs of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Place the lemon slices and herbs inside the chicken cavity.
  3. Rub the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roast for 1-1.5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Serve the chicken with the roasted lemon slices for an extra burst of flavour.

Pro tip: to get the most juice out of your lemons, roll them firmly on the countertop before cutting them. This helps to break down the cells and release more juice.

Kumquat

These tiny citrus gems might surprise you! Kumquats are unique because you can eat them whole — peel and all.

The peel is actually the sweetest part, offering a citrusy flavour with a slightly tart centre.

Health benefits

Kumquat health benefits

Don’t let their size fool you; kumquats are nutritional powerhouses.

They’re packed with vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.

Season

Kumquats are a winter fruit, with their peak season running from November to March.

How to enjoy

Pop them in your mouth whole, slice them and add them to salads, use them as a garnish for desserts, or even candy them for a special treat.

Kumquat and cranberry sauce recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup kumquats, sliced
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup sugar (or honey or maple syrup)

Instructions:

  1. Combine the cranberries, kumquats, water, and sugar in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
  3. Let cool and serve alongside roasted meats or as a topping for yoghurt or pancakes.

Cranberry

Often associated with holiday feasts and festive drinks, cranberries bring a tangy twist to the season.

But these little red berries offer more than just a delicious taste — they’re packed with nutrients and health benefits, too.

Health benefits

cranberry health benefits

Cranberries offer unique benefits beyond their tangy taste.

They may help reduce the incidence of certain infections, promote heart health, and decrease inflammation linked to chronic diseases and ageing.

Season

They’re harvested in the autumn, but you’ll find them fresh, frozen, or dried, allowing you to enjoy their benefits all season long.

How to enjoy

While their tartness might be too intense for some to enjoy raw, cranberries shine in cooked dishes. They’re fantastic in sauces, relishes, baked goods, and even as a flavourful addition to smoothies.

Cranberry and orange relish recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
  • 1 large orange, quartered and seeded
  • 1/2 cup sugar (or alternative sweetener)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Pulse cranberries and orange quarters in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
  2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in sugar and nuts (if using).
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavours to blend.
  4. Serve as a condiment for roasted meats, sandwiches, or cheese platters.

Passion fruit

As soon as you crack open passion fruit, you’re greeted with a vibrant, golden pulp bursting with flavour. Sweet and tangy, it’s a winter fruit that brings a touch of the tropics to the colder months.

Health benefits

Passion fruit health benefits

Passion fruit provides essential nutrients, including potassium and magnesium, which support overall health.

Its low glycemic index makes it a smart choice for maintaining steady blood sugar levels and may even help improve insulin sensitivity.

Additionally, compounds in passion fruit are believed to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making it as calming as it is delicious.

Season

Passion fruit is available year-round in some regions.

How to enjoy

Scoop out the juicy pulp and enjoy it as is, or drizzle it over yoghurt, desserts, or smoothies for a flavourful kick.

Passion fruit yoghurt bowl recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 passion fruits, pulp scooped out
  • 200g Greek yoghurt
  • A handful of granola
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions:

  1. Spoon the Greek yoghurt into a bowl.
  2. Top with the passion fruit pulp and a sprinkle of granola.
  3. Drizzle with honey and enjoy this quick, refreshing snack.

Pro tip: Choose passion fruit that feels heavy for its size and has wrinkled skin — this indicates ripeness. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a week.

Dates

Rich, caramel-like, and naturally sweet — no wonder dates are often called ‘nature’s candy’.

But they’re more than just a treat; they’re a powerhouse of nutrients, perfect for energy and warmth.

Health benefits

Dates health benefits

Dates are packed with natural sugars, offering a quick energy boost without the crash. They also provide a healthy dose of potassium, magnesium, and iron, perfect for replenishing essential nutrients.

Season

Dates are harvested in the autumn and winter. Their long shelf life means you can enjoy them well into the colder months.

How to enjoy

Dates are incredibly versatile — snack on them, stuff them with nuts or cream cheese, or blend them into smoothies and energy balls for a natural sweetener.

Chocolate-dipped date recipe

Ingredients:

  • 10 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 100g dark chocolate, melted
  • A handful of crushed nuts (pistachios, almonds, or walnuts)

Instructions:

  1. Slice each date open, remove the pit, and close it back up.
  2. Dip the dates halfway into the melted dark chocolate.
  3. Sprinkle crushed nuts on the chocolate before it sets.
  4. Place on parchment paper and refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.

Get winter’s best to your door

Winter fruits aren’t just about seasonal flavour — they’re about nourishing your body and adding brightness to the colder months. 

Whether you’re enjoying a fresh snack or experimenting with new dishes, these fruits make it easy to embrace the season.

And if you’re looking for extra comfort during the chilly months, you can order all your favourite winter fruits and essentials on Bolt Market and get them in minutes. Stay cosy and let the season’s best come to you.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best seasonal winter fruits?

The best seasonal winter fruits include oranges, grapefruits, pears, pomegranates, kiwis, lemons, apples, clementines, kumquats, and dates. These fruits are at their freshest and most flavourful during the colder months.

Why are winter fruits important during colder months?

Winter fruits provide immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin C and natural sweetness, helping you stay healthy and energised while satisfying cravings during the colder months.

Are winter fruits good for your health?

Yes, winter fruits are rich in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants, which boost immunity, aid digestion, and promote glowing skin. They’re a natural way to stay energised and healthy during colder months.

How can I enjoy winter fruits in my diet?

Enjoy winter fruits fresh, toss them into salads, blend them into smoothies, bake them into desserts, or incorporate them into savoury dishes for added nutrition and flavour.

Are pomegranates a winter fruit?

Yes, pomegranates are a classic winter fruit. Their peak season lasts from late autumn to early winter, typically from October to January.

Are there any winter berries?

Yes, cranberries and lingonberries are winter berries often used during the colder months. While not fresh in winter, frozen or imported blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are great alternatives.

Can winter fruits be used in savoury dishes?

Yes! Use lemons, kumquats, and pears in savoury dishes. Examples include roasted vegetables with lemon zest, kumquat-glazed chicken, or a pear and blue cheese salad.

What are winter vegetables?

Winter vegetables include root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and celery root, leafy greens like kale and spinach, and other winter staples like Brussels sprouts, winter squash, sweet potatoes, and onions.

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