Though we are one week in, in many ways, I am just finding my footing in this new year. With family in town, colds to fight, and a bit of extra tiredness (the apparent hallmark of the second trimester), starting well meant taking a bit of an extended holiday break.

I am so ready for this month. January can be a tough one, but I have so many projects and plans on the docket and I am very thankful to have regained both mobility and creativity after some really rough months.

Now, let’s talk about all the things we should be eating, revisit some favorites, and really just eat as many oranges as we can.

BRIGHT & BOLD

I always lose my mind a bit over citrus season, but this year I have been especially enthusiastic. Please do not count the orange peels on my plate. These easy weeknight dinners are the perfect way to celebrate the fruits of this season without breaking your resolutions to eat healthfully!

Blood Orange & Sesame Marinated Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Sesame-Soy Pork Loin Salads

Chicken, Cashew & Citrus Salad with Spicy Cinnamon Vinaigrette

Pork Tenderloin Glazed with Orange Marmalade

TREATS & TONICS

After a month of hot chocolate-sipping, January is often my favorite time to turn to a few of my favorite spicy mocktails. I find myself needing something bright and colorful on these gray afternoons and these are just a few of my favorite tonics! Perfect for a mid-workday pick-me-up or for adding some glimmer to your Tuesday night in.

Sparkling Blood Orange Chai

Chai Lemonade

Vanilla-Lime Ginger Ale

LET’S STAY IN

When the freezing temperatures hit, I stock up on heavy cream, pasta, and all the cheeses. This is probably the best time of year, in my mind, to indulge in your favorite comfort meals. Here are a few of mine.

Winter Shrimp & Grits

Bacon & Kale Fried Rice

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes with Beef & Mushroom Stew

Perfect-Every-Time Skirt Steak

Linguine with Parsley, Mushrooms, Pine Nuts & Scallops

FRESH STARTS

If you, like myself, are trying to implement a new morning routine, here are a few fresh ways to start your day!

Avocado Toast with Queso Fresco & Pickled Onions

Mango Blood Orange Smoothie with Coconut Oil

Pineapple Ginger Smoothie

COZY EATS

For those rainy Saturday mornings at home or a relaxed brunch with friends, these cozy, wintry, recipes are must-makes for the winter!

Lemon Curd Danish Cups

Lemon Coconut Muffins with Coconut Streusel

Caramelized Onion & Gruyere Brioche Strata

Grapefruit Tea Cake

Slow-Cooker Coconut Mint White Chocolate

Sincerely,

Pedantic Foodie