Commonly known as 'The blood orange of Sicily', Arancia Rossa di Sicilia is grown in the fertile lands spread out below the Mount Etna volcano. During ripening, due to a significant diurnal temperature variation in the area, the oranges produce high levels of crimson colored pigments called anthocyanins which give this orange its distinctive color.
Sicilian red oranges are available in three different varieties:
Tarocco,
Moro, and
Sanguinello. Even though Sicilian red oranges are characterized by their acidic fruitiness and may be quite tart, studies have proven that the consumption of blood oranges protects our DNA from oxidative damage and may reduce the risk of cardio vascular diseases. Arancia Rossa di Sicilia is delicious on its own, but it can also deliver a refreshing kick to a typical Sicilian salad, paired with red onions, fennel, and black olives.