Are you looking for a burst of citrus flavor to brighten up your meals? Look no further! Oranges are one of the most versatile fruits out there, and they can be used in a wide range of dishes – from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory meals like soups and salads. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 zesty orange recipes that will refresh your taste buds and add some much-needed sunshine to your plate.
From classic desserts like orange marmalade thumbprint cookies to creative twists like orange and fennel roasted pork, these recipes showcase the many faces of oranges in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this collection of zesty orange recipes.
Orange Glazed Chicken
Sweet and tangy, this orange glazed chicken recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Citrus Orange Salad with Honey Dressing
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing citrus salad, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and orange juice until well combined.
3. Pour the honey dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Marmalade Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies filled with a burst of citrusy goodness are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a sweet surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add orange marmalade, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use a thumbprint cookie mold or a glass to create an indentation in each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange and Ginger Carrot Soup
This vibrant Orange and Ginger Carrot Soup is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors to brighten up any day. With the humble carrot as its star, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of oranges with the zing of fresh ginger for a truly delightful experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 4 oranges)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and carrots. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in orange juice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Orange Ricotta Pancakes
Start your day with a burst of citrus flavor and creamy ricotta goodness in these Orange Ricotta Pancakes.
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
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your griddle or non-stick skillet to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, orange juice, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated griddle or skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Orange Teriyaki Salmon
A sweet and savory twist on traditional teriyaki salmon, this recipe combines the flavors of orange zest, soy sauce, and honey for a deliciously balanced dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup orange teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange teriyaki sauce, olive oil, orange zest, soy sauce, and honey.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of oranges with the nutty taste of almonds, perfect for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with orange juice, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Stir in sliced almonds and orange zest.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Orange Basil Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your grilled shrimp game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of orange, the earthiness of basil, and the sweetness of the shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Place shrimp in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
Transport yourself to a sunny day with this refreshing Orange Creamsicle Smoothie! Combining the sweetness of oranges, creaminess of vanilla yogurt, and a hint of citrus, this drink is perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
– 1/2 cup plain vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen orange juice concentrate, vanilla yogurt, and milk.
2. Add the honey and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder drink.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1-2 people
Enjoy your Orange Creamsicle Smoothie!
Orange and Fennel Roasted Pork
A sweet and savory pork roast infused with the bright flavors of orange and fennel, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork loin or shoulder roast
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 bulbs of fennel, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange segments, chopped fennel, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork roast in a roasting pan and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 2-pound roast.
Orange Blossom Honey Yogurt
Elevate your snack time with this refreshing and flavorful yogurt recipe, featuring the sweetness of orange blossom honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp orange blossom honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the mixed berries until they are evenly distributed throughout the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chill)
Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this elegant and flavorful tart, combining the brightness of orange with the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
4. Brush edges of pastry with melted butter and spread orange juice over center of tart, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Top with melted chocolate, spreading evenly to cover orange layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Chipotle BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with this sweet and smoky twist on classic BBQ ribs! The combination of tender pork, tangy orange marmalade, and spicy chipotle peppers will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together orange marmalade, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both racks of ribs.
4. Grill ribs for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush with chipotle pepper mixture and BBQ sauce.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Orange and Avocado Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the natural sweetness of oranges with the creamy richness of avocados, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup fresh orange segments (about 2 navel oranges)
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, orange segments, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Orange Poppy Seed Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these moist and flavorful orange poppy seed muffins. The combination of juicy orange zest, sweet sugar, and nutty poppy seeds creates a delightful breakfast or snack treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange and Rosemary Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken recipe, infused with the warmth of orange zest and the herbal notes of rosemary. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 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 olive oil, rosemary leaves, and orange zest.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate
Escape the chill with this creamy and aromatic hot chocolate infused with the warmth of orange and spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in the orange marmalade, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Reduce heat to low and add sugar to taste.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for an extra-rich hot chocolate.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orange and Beetroot Carpaccio
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of oranges with the earthy flavor of beetroot, topped with fresh herbs and a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 large oranges, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 medium beetroot, cooked and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Arrange the orange slices on a platter or individual plates.
3. Top the oranges with beetroot slices, slightly overlapping each other.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to squeeze some citrus into your cooking with these 18 zesty orange recipes! From savory dishes like Orange Glazed Chicken and Orange Basil Grilled Shrimp, to sweet treats like Orange Marmalade Thumbprint Cookies and Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart, there’s something for everyone. Plus, refreshing drinks like Orange Creamsicle Smoothie and Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate will keep you hydrated all year round. Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad or a hearty main course, these orange recipes are sure to bring a burst of flavor to your meals.