The 12 Best Substitutes For Grapefruits

Grapefruits are a popular citrus fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways.

Whether you’re adding it to your breakfast, making a salad or simply eating it as a snack, grapefruit is always delicious and refreshing.

However, sometimes finding fresh grapefruits isn’t easy – or maybe you just want to switch things up!

If this is the case, there are plenty of other fruits that can be used as substitutes for grapefruit.

In this article, I will discuss 12 of the best substitutes for grapefruit that you can use when cooking or baking.

From oranges and lemons to tangerines and pomelos, each one has its own unique flavor profile that will add something special to your dish.

What Are Grapefruits?

Grapefruits are a citrus fruit that is believed to have originated in Barbados.

They are a hybrid of the sweet orange and the pomelo, and they come in several varieties including white, pink, and ruby red.

The skin of grapefruit can range from yellow-green to yellow-orange in color, depending on the variety.

The flesh inside is juicy and tart with a slightly bitter flavor.

Grapefruits are usually eaten fresh as part of breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

They can also be used for juicing or added to salads for extra flavor.

In some parts of the world, grapefruits are cooked into desserts such as pies or tarts; their tartness helps balance out sweetness from other ingredients like sugar or honey.

Grapefruit juice is also popularly used as an ingredient in cocktails such as margaritas and daiquiris due to its bright flavor profile and acidity level.

The 12 Best Substitutes For Grapefruits

Grapefruits are a tart and delicious fruit, but they can be hard to find in some places.

If you’re looking for an alternative, here are twelve substitutes that will still give you the same great taste:

1 – Oranges

Oranges are a great alternative to grapefruit when you’re out of the latter.

They have a sweet, citrusy flavor and can be used in many recipes.

Oranges are rich in Vitamin C and other antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for boosting your immune system.

Oranges can be eaten as-is or juiced for a refreshing drink.

They also make delicious desserts like orange cake or creamsicles.

You can even use oranges to make savory dishes like orange glazed salmon or roasted chicken with orange sauce!

2 – Mangoes

Mangoes are a tropical fruit that is native to South Asia.

They are sweet, juicy and have a unique flavor that can be described as a combination of pineapple, peach and citrus.

Mangoes come in many varieties, from the small yellow-green Haden mango to the large red-orange Tommy Atkins mango.

Mangoes make an excellent substitute for grapefruit in recipes such as smoothies, salads or salsas.

For example, try blending frozen mango chunks with orange juice and honey for a refreshing breakfast smoothie; adding diced mangoes to your favorite green salad; or making a spicy salsa with diced tomatoes, onions and jalapenos topped with fresh chopped mangoes!

3 – Peaches

Peaches are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be used in many recipes.

They have a sweet, juicy flavor and a soft texture that makes them perfect for baking, grilling, or eating raw.

Peaches are also high in fiber and vitamins A and C.

Peaches can be used as a substitute for grapefruit in salads, smoothies, or even desserts.

For example, try making peach salsa with diced peaches, jalapenos, red onion, lime juice and cilantro; grilled peaches with honey-balsamic glaze; or peach crumble topped with oats and brown sugar.

These recipes will bring out the natural sweetness of the peaches while still providing an interesting twist on classic dishes!

4 – Pomelos

Pomelos are a large citrus fruit that is closely related to grapefruit.

They have a thick, yellow-green rind and juicy, sweet-tart flesh.

The flavor of pomelos is similar to grapefruits but milder and less acidic.

Pomelos can be eaten raw or cooked in various dishes.

Try adding them to salads for a refreshing burst of flavor, or use them as an ingredient in marinades and sauces for grilled fish or chicken.

You can also make delicious jams and jellies with pomelo juice!

Pro Tip: For an easy dessert, try roasting pomelo halves with honey and cinnamon for a sweet treat!

5 – Tangerines

Tangerines are a type of citrus fruit that is closely related to oranges.

They have a sweet-tart flavor and are usually smaller and sweeter than oranges.

Tangerines are also known as mandarins, satsumas, or clementines.

Tangerines can be eaten fresh or used in recipes such as salads, sauces, marinades, desserts, smoothies and more.

Their bright orange color makes them an attractive addition to any dish!

Fun Recipe Ideas:

• Try making tangerine sorbet for a refreshing summer treat!
• Or try adding tangerine zest to your favorite muffin recipe for an extra burst of flavor.
• You can even make a delicious glaze with tangerine juice and honey for roasted vegetables or grilled chicken!

6 – Pineapple

Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is sweet, juicy and full of flavor.

It’s an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese, as well as containing other vitamins and minerals.

Pineapple can be eaten fresh or cooked in a variety of dishes.

Pineapple makes an excellent substitute for grapefruit in recipes such as salads, salsas, smoothies and desserts.

For example, try making a pineapple salsa with diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeno pepper and cilantro; or use it to make a refreshing smoothie with coconut milk and banana; or even bake up some delicious pineapple upside-down cake!

Pro Tip: To get the most out of your pineapple make sure you buy one that has bright yellow skin with no green patches – this indicates it’s ripe!

7 – Lemon juice

Lemon juice is a great substitute for grapefruit in recipes.

It has a tart, acidic flavor that can be used to replace the sourness of grapefruit.

Lemon juice is also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any dish.

Lemon juice can be used as an ingredient in many dishes such as salads, marinades, sauces, dressings and desserts.

• For example, you could make a delicious lemon vinaigrette by combining olive oil with freshly squeezed lemon juice and herbs like oregano or thyme.
• You could also use it to make a refreshing summer drink by mixing it with sparkling water and sweetener of your choice!
• Or try adding some lemon juice to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra zing!

8 – Lime

Lime is a citrus fruit that is closely related to the grapefruit.

It has a tart, acidic flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

The juice of limes is often used as an ingredient in marinades, dressings, sauces, desserts, drinks and more.

Lime adds a bright flavor to any dish it’s added to.

• Try adding some freshly squeezed lime juice to guacamole or salsa for extra zing!
• Or make a simple syrup with equal parts sugar and lime juice for use in cocktails or over ice cream.
• You can also add some grated lime zest into your favorite baked goods like muffins or cakes for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tip: To get the most out of your limes, roll them on the countertop before cutting them open – this will help release more of their juices!

9 – Tropical fruit juice

Tropical fruit juice is a great alternative to grapefruit.

It’s made from a variety of fruits, such as pineapple, mango, papaya, guava and passion fruit.

The combination of these fruits creates a unique flavor that is both sweet and tart.

Tropical fruit juice can be used in many recipes for drinks or desserts.

For example, you can make a delicious smoothie by blending tropical fruit juice with yogurt and ice cubes; or use it to make an exotic sorbet by freezing the juice with sugar and water; or even mix it with vodka for an amazing cocktail!

Pro Tip: To get the most out of your tropical fruit juice, try adding some fresh mint leaves or lime wedges for extra flavor!

10 – Canned grapefruit

Canned grapefruit is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the sweet-tart flavor of this citrus fruit.

It’s already peeled, cut into segments, and packed in juice or syrup for easy use in recipes.

Canned grapefruit can be used in salads, smoothies, desserts, cocktails, and more!

• For a quick breakfast or snack idea, try making a Grapefruit Parfait: Layer canned grapefruit segments with Greek yogurt and your favorite granola for an easy yet tasty treat.
• Or make a refreshing Grapefruit Margarita by blending together tequila, lime juice, simple syrup, and canned grapefruit segments.
• For something savory try adding some canned grapefruit to your next stir fry – it adds an unexpected sweetness that pairs well with vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

11 – Water and baking soda

Water and baking soda is a great alternative to grapefruit if you’re out of the citrus fruit.

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a natural alkaline substance that can be used in many recipes as an ingredient for flavor and texture.

Water and baking soda can be used to make delicious treats like cookies, cakes, muffins, pancakes, waffles, breads and more!

It’s also great for making fizzy drinks like sodas or sparkling water.

For example: try adding 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to 2 cups of cold water with some fresh lemon juice for a refreshing drink!

Pro Tip: If you want your baked goods to rise even higher when using baking soda as a leavening agent, add 1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice per cup of flour in the recipe. This will help activate the baking soda so it works its magic!

12 – Berries

Berries are a great alternative to grapefruit if you’re out of the citrus fruit.

Berries come in many varieties, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries.

They have a sweet and tart flavor that is perfect for adding to smoothies, salads or baking recipes.

Berries can be used in a variety of ways – from breakfast dishes like pancakes with berry compote or oatmeal with fresh berries; to lunchtime salads topped with mixed berries; to dinner entrees such as grilled salmon with berry salsa; and even desserts like strawberry shortcake or raspberry cheesecake.

Pro Tip: To make your own berry compote at home, simply combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add your favorite combination of berries (fresh or frozen) and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens into a syrup-like consistency.

FAQ

What fruit is similar to grapefruit?

Pomelo is a large citrus fruit related to grapefruit that is native to Asia.

It has a thick, pale rind and is typically shaped like a teardrop, although it can grow to the size of a cantaloupe or larger.

The flesh of a pomelo is either green or yellow, and its flavor is similar to a grapefruit, but with a sweeter taste.

Pomelo is a great alternative to grapefruit, and it can be eaten on its own, juiced, or used to add an extra burst of flavor to salads and other dishes.

What fruit tastes most like grapefruit?

The pomelo is a citrus fruit that has a flavor most similar to grapefruit. Unlike a grapefruit, however, the taste of a pomelo is much sweeter and less puckery.

The segments of the pomelo fruit have a sweet and juicy flavor, while the membrane between the segments is extremely thick and bitter and should be avoided.

If you’re looking for a fruit that tastes like a grapefruit but is less acidic and tart, the pomelo is an excellent option.

Can I substitute orange for grapefruit?

Yes, oranges can be used as a substitute for grapefruit in most recipes.

While oranges and grapefruits have similar flavor profiles, oranges are a bit sweeter than grapefruits, making them a great substitute for recipes that require grapefruit’s sharpness.

To use oranges as a substitute, simply cut the oranges into wedges or slices instead of using grapefruit. This will provide the recipe with a tart flavor while adding a bit of variety.

What does grapefruit taste similar to?

Grapefruits have a tart, acidic flavor with a hint of bitterness that is similar to oranges, and it makes sense why they share a similar taste since grapefruits were created as a hybrid of pumelo and sweet oranges.

However, grapefruits are much more tart than oranges, so they tend to have a more intense flavor. Despite the difference in taste, grapefruits still have a hint of sweetness that make them enjoyable to eat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grapefruits are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes.

But if you find yourself without a grapefruit, there are plenty of other options that can be used as a substitute.

The best substitutes for grapefruits are oranges, mangoes, peaches, pomelos, tangerines, pineapple, lemon juice, lime, tropical fruit juice, canned grapefruit, water and baking soda, and berries.

Each of these options has a unique flavor and texture that can be used to create delicious and nutritious dishes.

So, the next time you find yourself in a pinch, reach for one of these substitutes and give it a try!