If you’ve ever wondered how to get perfect orange segments without the mess, you’re not alone. Whether it’s for a salad, snack, or adding some zest to a dish, segmenting an orange is a skill that can elevate your fruit game. It’s simple, and with a few tricks, you’ll be able to peel away the pith and membranes, leaving only juicy, bright slices. Let’s break it down!

What You’ll Need

A sharp knife

A cutting board

An orange (of course!)

Step-by-Step Guide

Trim off the ends
Start by slicing off both ends of the orange. This creates a stable base for the next steps and exposes the flesh inside.

Peel away the skin
Stand the orange on one of its flat ends and carefully cut down along the sides, following the curve of the fruit. Remove all the skin and white pith, ensuring the flesh is fully exposed.

Segment the orange
Now comes the fun part. Hold the peeled orange in one hand, and with your knife, carefully cut along the membrane between each segment. Work your way around the fruit, removing each segment without cutting into the surrounding pith. This step takes a bit of finesse, but with practice, you’ll have perfect segments every time.

Optional: Catch the juice
If you want to save the juice, do this over a bowl. Not only will you catch any extra juice that escapes, but you’ll also have a fresh burst of citrus flavor for your next recipe.

Tips for Perfect Orange Segments

Use a paring knife, which is a small, sharp knife with a pointed blade (typically under 8” total— and resembling a smaller version of a chef’s knife). It’s designed for precise kitchen tasks, like peeling or stripping away an outer layer.

Use a serrated knife if you find it difficult to cut through the fruit cleanly.

Practice makes perfect! The more you segment oranges, the easier it gets.

Orange segments are a refreshing addition to any dish, whether it’s a bright salad or a vibrant garnish. Once you master this technique, you’ll be able to tackle any citrus with confidence!