It feels like we only think about sending fruit baskets as gifts during the holiday seasons.  When you begin to think about it, fruit baskets make wonderful surprises for almost any occasion.  For example, if you have friends who are finally going on that Caribbean cruise that they have been dreaming about for so long, what better way to say bon voyage than a basket full of fresh tropical fruit?

If you shop around you might be able to find a theme basket that you can buy ready made or, you can use your own good taste and creativity to design one your self.  Begin by picking out a basket.  You need to remember that the size of the basket will determine how much fruit you are going to be able to put in it.  So if you see this utterly beautiful woven basket that is designed for a large floral exhibit, think about how much it is going to weigh after you put a bushel of fruit in it.  Don’t start your friends’ trip by giving them a hernia.

Once you have picked out the basket and have an idea of how much room you have to work with, it it time to find the goodies.  If it’s going to be a tropical fruit basket then you want to make up a list of the types of fruits you want to look for.   There is actually a large variety of tropical fruits to choose from but they will not always be in season at the same time so availability will play a huge role in what you can put in your basket.

Oranges are of course a favorite for almost everybody and with a season that runs from October to June you’ll probably be able to find fresh oranges regardless where you are in the country.  Navel and Valencia oranges are probably the most popular because of their fantastic taste and ease of peeling.  But you might want to try something more exotic like a Blood Orange which has a deeper sweeter taste and an amazing fragrance. 

Tangerines, particularly Honeybells if you can get them are excellent additions to your tropical basket.  Pixies are another favorite because of their size and and phenomenally sweet yet tangy flavor.  And what tropical basket would be complete without Mangos and Guava?  These not only add a little variety but a mix of color as well.  And when your friends have had their fill of citrus, then they can slice up the ripe Avocados that you so thoughtfully provided.

Imagine the smiles when you present this basket to your friends at their send off.  It’s a special day for them and you have just made it even more memorable.

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Article contributed by Hale Groves, providing fresh fruit baskets, gift baskets and Florida oranges and citrus, including delicious navel oranges, honeybells, ruby red grapefruit, valencia oranges, tangerines and more! Visit HaleGroves.com for more information.