Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

Ingredients

• 6large ripe oranges
• 1 tspfinely grated orange zest (optional)
• 1 cupcold water or ice cubes (optional)

Instructions

1. 1
   Wash and dry the oranges thoroughly. Roll each orange on the countertop with gentle pressure to loosen the juice sacs.
2. 2
   Cut each orange in half crosswise. Remove any visible seeds.
3. 3
   Using a citrus juicer (hand press, reamer, or electric), extract the juice into a glass or pitcher, rotating the halves to maximize yield.
4. 4
   Pour the juice through a fine-mesh strainer if you prefer a pulp-free drink, pressing gently to collect all liquid.
5. 5
   Add the grated orange zest for extra fragrance and flavor.
6. 6
   Serve immediately over ice or chilled for peak freshness.