Sunkist Citrus Day takes place on March 1 and honors the deep roots and rich legacy that citrus has in California. To celebrate, we’ve highlighted a selection of our favorite citrus-infused dishes and cocktails you can find at Pelican Hill.
Bask in Flavor
From the Coliseum Pool Lunch Menu:
Lobster Salad
As the heavier, heartier meals of winter give way to the lighter, more refreshing fare of spring, our Lobster Salad makes for the perfect accompaniment to a warm, sparkling afternoon. Every element of the salad—from the crisp greens to the locally sourced produce—is meticulously selected to complement tender chunks of lobster. Beautifully dressed in a cilantro citrus vinaigrette, the tangy-sweet flavors accentuate every ingredient and will leave your taste buds wanting more.
From the Pelican Grill Dinner Menu:
Ahi Crudo
Yearning for a dinner that’s fresh and vibrant? Look no further. Citrus takes center stage in elevating our Ahi Crudo dish to new flavorful heights, courtesy of a Meyer Lemon Gelee. This addition not only enhances the freshness of the ahi-tuna but also delivers a burst of invigorating acidity and subtle complexity in every bite.
Crab Cake
Crafting the perfect crab cake is a delicate art that requires precision and skill, and when it comes to this dish, every component is carefully selected to heighten the natural sweetness and briny richness of the crab meat. Accompanied by a frisée and endive salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this dish achieves a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The salad’s crispness and tanginess beautifully highlight the savory richness of the crab. Enjoy with a buttery Chardonnay for a truly indulgent coastal experience.
Veal Milanese
The comforting familiarity of Veal Milanese makes it a perfect choice for a relaxing and delightful culinary experience. Paired with grilled lemons that impart a touch of smokiness to the crispy veal, you’ll find yourself content and ready for a restful night’s slumber.
Sip Into Sunshine
Toast to Sunkist Citrus Day—and beyond—with one of Pelican Hill’s innovative cocktails that highlight the vibrant flavors of citrus fruits:
Surfer’s Gimlet
Reminiscent of sunny days and salty ocean breezes, the Surfer’s Gimlet is a fitting libation for a beachside escape. Combining the invigorating essence of lime with the crispness of gin, this cocktail has a refreshing flavor profile that’s particularly satisfying after a day spent lounging in the sun.
Sage The World
Aromatic and citrus-forward, this gin-based cocktail is combined with lime & tangerine juices, pineapple-honey, and Grand Marnier for a wonderfully smooth and refreshing taste. A garnish of fresh sage offers a herbal balance that harmonizes with the acidity of the citrus juices, adding a cozy and inviting touch.
Not a Single Cloud
True to its namesake, this cocktail is a worthy choice for sipping under a clear, bright-blue sky while you take in the dazzling Pacific here at Pelican Hill. The velvety texture of vodka intertwines with the sweet and citrusy flavors of blue curacao and Grand Marnier to create a well-balanced and visually stunning beverage. A squeeze of lime juice adds just the right amount of bright tartness, while a dash of gold dust creates a shimmering effect reminiscent of our beautiful sea.
Winter Mule
While there’s still a lingering chill in the evening air as we await the sunnier season, our Winter Mule feels like a warm hug. A seasonal variation of the classic Moscow mule, this cozy cocktail incorporates seasonal ingredients like Blood Orange Ginger Beer to add warmth and depth.
The Vibrant History of Citrus in Orange County
Oranges and Orange County are synonymous for a reason—the crop has a rich and storied legacy in the region which has influenced its economy, culture, and landscape. Sweet oranges were first introduced to Orange County in the 1870s, but it wasn’t until a bit later when citrus cultivation truly flourished. The Mediterranean-like climate of Orange County, boasting abundant sunshine and mild winters, created an ideal environment for growing citrus fruits of exceptional quality, establishing them as the cornerstone of the county’s economy for several decades. The crop continues to have an important presence in the region today, and so by celebrating citrus, we celebrate the unique heritage and identity of the great OC!
