20 Zesty Blood Orange Recipes for Citrus Lovers

There’s something special about blood oranges – their deep red juice and vibrant color can add a pop of excitement to any dish. And when you combine them with other ingredients that complement their unique flavor, the result is nothing short of magic. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and zesty charm of blood oranges.

From savory salads and soups to sweet treats like cakes and tarts, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with this versatile citrus fruit. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone. So let’s dive in and discover the many ways you can enjoy blood oranges!

Blood Orange and Avocado Salad

This refreshing salad combines the vibrant flavor of blood oranges with the creamy texture of avocados, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe blood oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the blood orange segments and toss gently to coat.
3. Halve the avocado and remove the pit. Dice the flesh into small pieces.
4. Add the diced avocado to the bowl with the blood oranges and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10-15 minutes.

Roasted Beet and Blood Orange Soup

Roasted Beet and Blood Orange Soup: A vibrant and refreshing soup that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the tanginess of blood oranges, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 large beets
– 1 blood orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the roasted beets, blood orange segments, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes

Blood Orange Glazed Salmon

This recipe combines the sweetness of blood orange with the richness of salmon, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together blood orange juice, honey, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly charred on top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Blood Orange Margarita

Brighten up your cocktail game with this vibrant Blood Orange Margarita, featuring the tangy sweetness of blood oranges and a hint of citrus. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or any occasion that calls for a refreshing twist on the classic margarita.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce lime juice
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, blood orange juice, triple sec, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a slice of blood orange, if desired.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!

Blood Orange Sorbet

Brighten up your dessert menu with this vibrant and tangy blood orange sorbet. With its bold citrus flavor, it’s perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups blood orange juice (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the blood orange juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once set, scoop the sorbet into an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None

Tips:

– For a more intense flavor, use fresh blood orange juice.
– If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish and place in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes until desired consistency is reached.

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

This refreshing salad combines the sweet and tangy flavors of blood oranges with the crunchy freshness of fennel, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 2 large blood oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or fennel fronds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the blood orange segments and sliced fennel to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or fennel fronds if desired.

Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of blood oranges and the richness of olive oil.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, olive oil, blood orange juice, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Blood Orange Marmalade

This vibrant and tangy marmalade is a perfect preserve for winter’s citrus fruits. Made with blood oranges, sugar, and spices, it’s a delicious addition to toast, scones, or as a glaze for meats.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups blood orange juice (about 6-8 oranges)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 lemon, sliced thinly
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Combine the blood orange juice, sugar, and water in a large saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
3. Add the sliced lemon and spices to the marmalade. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar with tight-fitting lid.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or freeze for up to 1 year.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Blood Orange and Pomegranate Smoothie

A refreshing blend of citrusy and tangy flavors, this smoothie is perfect for a warm day or as a healthy pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup frozen blood oranges
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Add the frozen blood oranges, pomegranate juice, and sliced banana to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
6. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Blood Orange Chicken Stir-Fry

Brighten up your dinner with this vibrant Blood Orange Chicken Stir-Fry, featuring juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a burst of citrus flavor. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together blood orange juice, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Return chicken to pan and toss to coat.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Blood Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart

This tart is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with the bold flavors of blood orange and dark chocolate.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup blood orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan with removable sides.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
7. Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and blood orange juice.
8. Pour egg mixture into the baked tart crust, then drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
9. Bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Blood Orange Gin Fizz Cocktail

This refreshing cocktail combines the sweet and tangy flavors of blood orange with the crispness of gin, all topped off with a splash of citrusy fizz. Perfect for a warm evening or a celebration.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz fresh blood orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– Splash of soda water
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, blood orange juice, simple syrup, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Cooking Time: None

Blood Orange and Ricotta Pancakes

These fluffy pancakes combine the sweetness of blood oranges with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, creating a unique and delicious breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup blood orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh blood orange slices and powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, and blood orange juice.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Blood Orange and Ginger Glazed Carrots

Elevate your vegetable game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe. Sweet blood oranges and spicy ginger combine to create a sticky glaze that’s perfect for roasted carrots.

Ingredients:

– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch sticks
– 1/4 cup blood orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together blood orange juice, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the glaze and toss until they’re well coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Blood Orange and Thyme Roasted Chicken

This recipe combines the brightness of blood oranges with the earthy flavor of thyme to create a stunning roasted chicken dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals. The result is a juicy, citrusy bird with a fragrant aroma that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 blood oranges, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together blood orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the thyme sprigs inside the cavity of the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Blood Orange and Almond Biscotti

Brighten up your breakfast or snack time with these crispy, flavorful biscotti infused with the vibrant flavors of blood oranges and toasted almonds.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup blood orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in egg, blood orange juice, and almond extract. Fold in sliced almonds.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape into two logs (about 12 inches long). Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven; let cool completely. Slice diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Blood Orange and Shrimp Ceviche

A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the vibrant flavor of blood oranges.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp and blood orange juice.
2. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Just before serving, stir in the lime juice, red onion, and cilantro.
4. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time:

– Marinating time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes

Blood Orange and Honey Yogurt Parfait

Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this vibrant and sweet treat, combining the tanginess of yogurt with the bold flavors of blood oranges and honey.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and blood orange juice until well combined.
2. Drizzle the honey over the yogurt mixture and stir to combine.
3. Layer the granola and mixed berries in a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
4. Pour the yogurt-honey mixture over the granola and berries.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! Just layer and serve.

Blood Orange and Rosemary Focaccia

Elevate your snack game with this unique focaccia recipe that combines the brightness of blood oranges with the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side to your favorite soups and salads.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 blood oranges, peeled and segmented (about 1/2 cup)
– Coarse sea salt, for finishing

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Add olive oil and warm water; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary leaves and blood orange segments.
8. Finish with coarse sea salt and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blood Orange and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta

Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and creamy panna cotta infused with the vibrant flavors of blood oranges and the warmth of vanilla beans.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup blood orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and blood orange juice. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids (vanilla bean).
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Summary

Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant flavor of blood oranges! This collection of 20 zesty recipes showcases the versatility of this citrus superstar. From sweet treats like Blood Orange Sorbet and Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, to savory dishes like Blood Orange Glazed Salmon and Blood Orange Chicken Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, refreshing cocktails and drinks, such as the Blood Orange Margarita and Blood Orange Gin Fizz Cocktail, will quench your thirst. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your culinary creativity.