50 Bright Citrus Recipes for Cold Winter Days

Updated by Food Network Canada Editors on August 15, 2018

Citrus season reaches its peak right in the middle of winter, delivering a fresh, sunshiny burst of flavour when you need it most. From classic lemon chicken to beautiful blood orange cake, these delicious recipes will help you make the most of all those lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits.

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Blood Orange Upside Down Cake

This cake cooks quickly, is easy to make and is always a showstopper as soon as you flip it out of the cake tin. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/blood-orange-upside-down-cake/15250/" target="_blank">Blood Orange Upside Down Cake</a>
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Lemon Babas

Babas are yeast-raised Italian pastries typically made with pastry cream and a rum syrup. Inspired by Neapolitan lemons, Anna opts for a decadent lemon curd filling and soaks them in a luscious lemon syrup. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/bake-with-anna-olson/recipe/lemon-babas/21743/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Lemon Babas</a>
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Citrus Upside Down Gluten-Free Muffins

A healthier alternative to heavy brunch treats, these vegan muffins are a citrus and coconut delight for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/gluten-free-cookie-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">gluten-free guests</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/citrus-upside-down-gluten-free-muffins/18406/" target="_blank">Citrus Upside Down Gluten-Free Muffins</a>
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Lemon Ginger Molasses Cake

Molasses plays a big part in many Acadian desserts, from molasses cookies and taffy to sweet, rich cakes. Indulge your cravings for that deep, rich molasses flavour with this scrumptious cake. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-ginger-molasses-cake/17582/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Lemon Ginger Molasses Cake</a>
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Roast Salmon with Florida Grapefruit and Quinoa Salad

The vitamin C found in citrus is a potent, skin-protective antioxidant, and the omega-3s found in fish double up on the SPF for a sunshiny, bright summer meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roast-salmon-with-florida-grapefruit-and-quinoa-salad/15284/" target="_blank">Lynn Crawford's Roast Salmon with Florida Grapefruit and Quinoa Salad</a>
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Brazilian Feijoada

Beef, beans, ham and pork ribs are just the start of this classic stick-to-your-ribs stew that's seasoned with serrano peppers, bay leaves, hot sauce and oranges. The slow-cooked dish is served with garlicky collard greens and white rice. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brazilian-feijoada/18575/" target="_blank">Brazilian Feijoada</a>
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Anna Olson's Lemon Meringue Pie

The Queen of Baking's take on the always-classic <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/top-12-lemon-desserts-from-anna-olson/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">lemon dessert</a> is light, fresh and packed with incredible flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/anna-olsons-lemon-meringue-pie/12767/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anna Olson's Lemon Meringue Pie</a>
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Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde

Bright, vitamin C-loaded and refreshing citrus pairs with silky salmon in this summertime main course to create a naturally delicious, sun-protective dinner. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-salmon-with-citrus-salsa-verde/10980/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa Verde</a>
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Brown Sugar-Spiced Grapefruit

 Top fresh grapefruit with a dash of sugar, cinnamon and ginger, and broil for a sweet snack or simple dessert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brown-sugar-spiced-grapefruit/13450/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Brown Sugar-Spiced Grapefruit</a>
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Lemon Tart

Built atop a ready-to-go crust, Geoff's tart dessert boasts a lemon filling that's both creamy and refreshingly bright. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/geoffreys-lemon-tart/19182/" target="_blank">Geoffrey Zakarian's Lemon Tart</a>
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Citrus Madeleines

These cute orange-scented, shell-shaped sponge cakes are the perfect treat if you're serving a crowd. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/citrus-madeleines/16626/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Citrus Madeleines</a>
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Champagne Oranges

Fresh oranges and orange marmalade are bathed in Champagne (or grape juice for the kiddies), and garnished with toasted slivered almonds and mint. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/champagne-oranges/15627/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Champagne Oranges</a>
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Lemon Ricotta Pancakes With Blueberry Compote

A seriously decadent breakfast or brunch, candied bacon slices are topped with light and fluffy pancakes and a blueberry compote for the perfect sweet and salty contrast. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-ricotta-pancakes-with-blueberry-compote-and-candied-bacon/18080/" target="_blank">Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Compote and Candied Bacon</a>
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Mini Lemon Chiffon Cakes

This recipe makes 48 bite-sized lemon chiffon cakes — a perfect party dessert that your guests won't soon forget! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mini-lemon-chiffon-cakes-with-lemon-crystal-glaze/12491/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Mini Lemon Chiffon Cakes with Lemon Crystal Glaze</a>
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Linda’s Lemon Roast Potatoes

A perfect potluck dish, savoury roast potatoes are an easy side dish that works well with both turkey or ham, whichever you prefer to serve. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lindas-lemon-roast-potatoes/16814/" target="_blank">Linda’s Lemon Roast Potatoes</a>
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Chocolate Orange Crêpe Torte

This show-stopping dessert consists of three layers; thin, fluffy crêpes, orange cremeux (white chocolate and orange-infused whip) and velvety chocolate ganache. Top with candied orange slices before serving and you've got the perfect centrepiece. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/bake-with-anna-olson/recipe/chocolate-orange-crepe-torte/19278/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anna Olson's Chocolate Orange Crêpe Torte</a>
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Lemon and Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

Packed with sweet, zesty flavour and made in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make main is sure to please any palate. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-and-herb-marinated-grilled-chicken-thighs/18883/" target="_blank">Anne Burrell's Lemon and Herb Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs</a>
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Lemon Pie Sundae

This bright dessert consists of vanilla ice cream topped with a sweet lemon sauce, fresh whipped cream and pie crust crumble. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-pie-sundae/18679/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Lemon Pie Sundae</a>
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Lemon Bundt Cake

A bright and sunny bundt cake with the refreshing, delicate flavour of lemon, this is the ideal summer dinner party dessert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-bundt-cake/18226/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Lemon Bundt Cake</a>
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Citrus, Kale and Avocado Salad

This bright and fresh salad is loaded with tons of great ingredients: oranges, raw kale, homemade tofu feta, almonds and a creamy yogurt lemon dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-citrus-kale-avocado-salad-37103/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Citrus, Kale and Avocado Salad With Lemon-Yogurt Dressing</a>
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Lemon and Garlic Roast Chicken

A <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-roast-chicken-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fantastic roast chicken</a> recipe is something every cook should have in their arsenal. This one combines fresh spring chicken with lemon and garlic for a comforting, classic main. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-and-garlic-roast-chicken/15399/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Lemon and Garlic Roast Chicken</a>
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Baked Fish with Basil, Garlic and Lemon

Simple baked tilapia is a quick and flavourful dish you’ll make again and again. Fresh lemon juice, basil and garlic add just enough flavour to this parchment-cooked fish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-fish-with-basil-garlic-and-lemon/12752/" target="_blank">Baked Fish with Basil, Garlic and Lemon</a>
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Traditional Caipirinha

The key to a good caipirinha is fresh lime and good quality cachaça, a popular Brazilian spirit made from cane sugar. Add ice and a touch of sugar, and enjoy! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/traditional-caipirinha/14597/" target="_blank">Traditional Caipirinha</a>
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Flourless Blood Orange Syrup Cake

Cornmeal and ground almonds give this cake great structure and a deliciously nutty texture, without the use of wheat flour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/flourless-blood-orange-syrup-cake/16540/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Flourless Blood Orange Syrup Cake</a>
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Key Lime Meringue Pie

A traditional key lime pie has a whipped cream topping, but this Italian meringue top makes the pie lighter on the palate. Unlike commercially made key lime pies, the colour of the lime custard is not green, but more of a yellow. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/key-lime-meringue-pie/16607/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Key Lime Meringue Pie</a>
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Ceviche and Chips

Fresh B.C. halibut and prawns make for a tender and tasty ceviche. The citric acid in fresh lime juice ‘cooks’ the fresh seafood, making it as easy as chopping and mixing it together. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/ceviche-and-chips/16819/" target="_blank">Ceviche and Chips</a>
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Clementine and Gingerbread Cookie Trifle

Whether you've got lots of regular gingerbread cookies sitting around or the remnants of a smashed gingerbread house, the broken pieces will work wonders in this clementine trifle. You can also swap citrus for your fruit of choice, or chocolate if you prefer something a little more rich and decadent. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/clementine-and-gingerbread-cookie-trifle/17546/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Clementine and Gingerbread Cookie Trifle</a>
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The Pioneer Woman’s Lemon Bars

The perfect balance of tart and sweet, this recipe from the Pioneer Woman is the only lemon bar recipe you need. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-lemon-bars/16625//" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Lemon Bars</a>
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Blood Orange Granita

Citrus fruit is bursting with water, making it the classic, go-to snack for little soccer players. For something off the field and a bit more elegant, create a hydrating granita with sunshiny oranges for a healthier dessert. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/blood-orange-granita/11224/" target="_blank">Blood Orange Granita</a>
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Blood Orange Watercress Salad

Enjoy the last few weeks of blood orange season by serving this bright citrus salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/blood-orange-watercress-salad/11225/" target="_blank">Blood Orange Watercress Salad</a>
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Michael Smith's Orange Ginger Broth with Soba Noodles

A variety of vegetables do double duty in this colourful soup, cleaning out the crisper while providing loads of nutritional value. Add a protein to the mix that suits your dietary preferences: chicken breasts, beef or tofu will all do the trick to keep you fuller for longer. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orange-ginger-broth-with-soba-noodles/8023/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michael Smith's Orange Ginger Broth with Soba Noodles</a>
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Orange Chipotle Shrimp Marinade

Black tiger prawns are packed with the heat of chipotle chilies, cilantro and fresh citrus in 15 minutes flat with this quick and easy summer seafood marinade. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orange-chipotle-shrimp/7860/" target="_blank">Orange Chipotle Shrimp Marinade</a>
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Grapefruit Pavlovas

The delight of these pavlovas not only resides in their lovely pink colour, but also in their caramelized crunch topping which slowly dissolves as it comes in contact with the sweet pink grapefruit juices. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grapefruit-pavlova/3650/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Grapefruit Pavlovas</a>
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Duck a l'Orange

One of Julia’s most popular recipes, this impressive main dish is covered in a rich, caramelized citrus sauce, served with bright, fresh orange slices. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/duck-a-lorange/9080/" target="_blank">Duck a l'Orange</a>
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Orange Blossom Bundt Cake with White Chocolate Ganache

This light and airy Bundt cake is as versatile as it is crowd-pleasing. Topped off with a rich white chocolate ganache with fresh orange zest, it packs an extra burst of refreshing citrus in every bite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orange-blossom-bundt-cake-with-white-chocolate-ganache/16438/" target="_blank">Damaris Phillips' Orange Blossom Bundt Cake with White Chocolate Ganache</a>
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Individual Cassatas with Candied Orange Slices

Orange lovers can rejoice with delectable candied orange slices garnished over moist cake with a sweet orange liqueur-flavoured ricotta filling. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/individual-cassatas-with-candied-orange-slices/12838/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anna Olson's Individual Cassatas with Candied Orange Slices</a>
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Honey Orange Beef Stir-Fry with Sweet Potato Noodles and Kale

Instead of rice or wheat noodles, spiralized <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potato</a> creates a more colourful, nutritious base. Lean beef, kale and orange bring it all together for a healthy take-out fake-out. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/honey-orange-beef-stir-fry-with-sweet-potato-noodles-and-kale/18116/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Honey Orange Beef Stir-Fry with Sweet Potato Noodles and Kale</a>
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Citrus Haricorts Verts

These perfectly tender green beans are tossed with segments of grapefruit and orange for a pop of colour and flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/citrus-haricorts-verts/8976/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Citrus Haricorts Verts</a>
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Florida Grapefruit Shortcakes

The burst of citrus flavour in this dish makes these shortcakes perfect as a light dessert or decadent brunch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/florida-grapefruit-shortcakes/15282/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lynn Crawford's Florida Grapefruit Shortcakes</a>
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Sesame Tofu Salad

Firm tofu chunks are doused in a sweet-spicy dressing and sautéed until browned and crispy. They are then tossed with mixed greens, tomatoes and mandarin oranges for a delicious salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sesame-tofu-salad/18892/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Sesame Tofu Salad</a>
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Cranberry Lime Bars

These buttery and crumbly dessert bars are packed with tart cranberries and topped with a sweet layer of smooth lime curd. The perfection combination of sweet and sour! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cranberry-lime-bars/8740/" target="_blank">Cranberry Lime Bars</a>
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Calypso Shrimp with Florida Grapefruit and Avocado Salad

Working well with both savoury and sweet flavours, electrolyte-rich avocado adds a creamy decadence to any dish. Try adding avocado to this refreshing shrimp (high in electrolyte, sodium) salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/calypso-shrimp-with-florida-grapefruit-and-avocado-salad/15283/" target="_blank">Lynn Crawford’s Calypso Shrimp with Florida Grapefruit and Avocado Salad</a>
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Olga’s Lemon Cake Squares

Serve up these delightful sweet and tart treats in generous, cake-sized squares. Your guests will thank you. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/olgas-lemon-cake-squares/16519/" target="_blank">Olga’s Lemon Cake Squares</a>
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Kale Slaw with Lime and Cotija

If you're tired of the same old <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/best-kale-salad-recipes/" target="_blank">kale salad</a>, try this satisfying slaw packed with cotija cheese, olive oil and tons of fresh lime juice. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/kale-slaw-with-lime-and-cotija/16210/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Kale Slaw with Lime and Cotija</a>
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The Pioneer Woman's Key Lime Pie

This citrusy pie is relatively easy to make and requires only 8 ingredients. One important thing to note: don't skimp on the whipped cream! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-key-lime-pie/16584/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Key Lime Pie</a>
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Peruvian Ceviche

Drawing on her Peruvian roots, Daniella Yamamoto, a student at Memorial University of Newfoundland, cures raw Newfoundland cod in citrus juice for a fusion of local ingredients and global traditions. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/recipe/peruvian-ceviche/16806/" target="_blank">Peruvian Ceviche</a>
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Classic Zucchini Loaf with Orange

Chock-full of zucchini for a health kick and chocolate chips for a little indulgence, this sweet loaf is bursting with citrus flavour for creative flavour combination. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/classic-zucchini-loaf-with-orange/12732/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Classic Zucchini Loaf with Orange</a>
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Kale Citrus Salad

 Jalapeño adds a touch of heat to this fresh, tangy salad with crunchy kale, clementines and goat cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/kale-citrus-salad/15594/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Kale Citrus Salad</a>
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Grapefruit Zabaglione over Mixed Berries

Zabaglione is an Italian dessert typically made with eggs, sugar and sweet wine, but Giada went kid-friendly with this version by using grapefruit juice, adding a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet fruit and sugary egg mixture. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grapefruit-zabaglione-over-mixed-berries/16450/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Grapefruit Zabaglione over Mixed Berries</a>
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Mouth-Watering Strawberry Lemonade Mojito

Lemons, mint, rum and a sunny patio is pretty much the recipe for a winning weekend afternoon. Of course, sweet in-season strawberries can only make it better. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mouth-watering-strawberry-lemonade-mojito/14651/" target="_blank">Mouth-Watering Strawberry Lemonade Mojito</a>
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