Oranges that are pink inside are a colorful twist on the traditional orange, offering both visual appeal and a unique flavor profile. Their pink flesh comes from natural pigments such as lycopene or anthocyanins, which give them a rosy hue ranging from pale blush to deep salmon. This makes them stand out in fruit bowls and adds beauty to juices, salads, and desserts.
One of the best-known examples is the Cara Cara navel orange, which has a rich, sweet taste with low acidity. Unlike common oranges, its flesh is a striking pinkish-red, making it a favorite among citrus lovers. Other varieties, like the Ruby navel and Pink navel, also display shades of pink while retaining the juicy sweetness associated with navel oranges.
Mediterranean and specialty cultivars contribute to this group as well. Oranges such as Vaniglia Sanguigno and Maltaise combine traditional orange sweetness with a light blush interior, often used in gourmet dishes and fresh eating. Their coloring varies by climate, sometimes leaning toward pink, sometimes toward deeper red.
Blood oranges also fall into this category, with some types, like Sanguinelli, showing more pink than deep red. These oranges tend to have a tangier, more complex flavor, balancing sweetness with a refreshing tart edge. Their vibrant juices and slices are popular in Mediterranean cuisine.
Pink-fleshed oranges are not only attractive but also nutritious. The same pigments that give them their unique coloring are rich in antioxidants, which support overall health. This makes them both a delightful and beneficial choice for those seeking variety in their diet.
Oranges That Are Pink Inside
Cara Cara Navel Orange
Perhaps the most famous pink-fleshed orange, Cara Cara has a deep salmon-pink interior caused by lycopene. It’s seedless, sweet, and low in acidity, making it a popular eating orange.
Vaniglia Sanguigno Orange
This rare Italian variety has a blush-pink interior and a mild, sweet taste with low acidity. Its unusual coloring and gentle flavor make it stand out among Mediterranean citrus.
Ruby Navel Orange
A close relative of the Cara Cara, Ruby Navels feature a pinkish-red flesh. They are juicy, seedless, and have a balanced sweetness, commonly enjoyed fresh or juiced.
Pink Navel Orange
As its name suggests, this orange has a pale pink interior with a sweet, refreshing taste. It’s a newer cultivar that’s visually striking and enjoyed much like traditional navels.
Red Valencia Orange
A variation of the classic Valencia, this type develops a light pink to reddish hue inside. It combines the tang of a juicing orange with a delicate hint of sweetness.
Kirkwood Orange
This South African variety is notable for its pale-pink flesh and crisp, juicy flavor. It’s a seasonal treat and mostly consumed fresh.
Fukumoto Orange
Originating in Japan, Fukumoto navels sometimes show a soft pinkish interior. They are sweet, aromatic, and typically available earlier in the season than other navels.
Sanguinelli Orange
Though classified as a blood orange, some Sanguinelli fruits show more pink than deep red pigmentation. They are juicy, tangy, and prized for both eating and juicing.
Maltaise Blood Orange
This Mediterranean favorite can have a pinkish to ruby flesh depending on climate. Its sweet-tart balance and unique coloring make it a popular table orange.
Pink Flesh Orange (Hybrid Types)
Several hybrid citrus cultivars are being bred specifically for pink flesh, often derived from navel or Valencia lines. These experimental types are grown in small quantities but are gaining popularity in specialty markets.