Have a Happy Lunar New Year with Green Tea and Orange Macarons

Who doesn’t love having a NYE celebration twice?

This Monday begins the Chinese year of the Dragon; let’s get our freak on with a Chinese twist on a sweet food trend for 2012!

Green tea originated in China but has become popular all over the world, especially for it’s antioxidant properties.  I dig it for the polyphenols and flavonoids, but also for its delicate flavor that plays so well against the mild, sweet almond of the macaron shell.  Not to mention it’s got such a pretty color!  (I’m a sucker for a pretty package, I just can’t help it, I’m a chick…)

Mandarin oranges are the most popular fruit to eat during the Chinese New Year.  I’ve added some zest and juice to a white chocolate meringue buttercream and filled my pretty green shells with it.  I love how the tangy citrus contrasts with the delicate, mild flavor of the green tea…

Here’s how to make ‘em for your pack of wild dragons:

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