As the seasons change and summer approaches, our taste buds crave refreshing and revitalizing flavors that evoke the warmth of sunshine. And what better way to do so than with the vibrant and inviting essence of oranges? From sweet treats to savory meals, citrusy goodness is just a recipe away! In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 zesty orange recipes that are sure to brighten up your meal routine. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dessert, these orange-packed creations will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Read on to discover the most mouthwatering ways to incorporate oranges into your cooking and baking repertoire…
Orange Glazed Chicken
A sweet and tangy orange glaze gives this chicken dish a bright and citrusy flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon 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 marmalade, honey, soy sauce, and orange juice.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish. Brush the orange glaze all over the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Citrus Orange Salad
A refreshing and vibrant salad perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, and mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Marmalade Pancakes
Brighten up your breakfast with these sweet and tangy pancakes infused with the flavors of orange marmalade. Perfect for a weekend treat or a special brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade, melted
– Butter, for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted orange marmalade.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Orange and Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweeten up your side dishes with this simple and flavorful recipe. A symphony of citrusy orange and golden honey, perfectly balanced to bring out the natural sweetness of carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
Transport yourself to a sunny day with this refreshing Orange Creamsicle Smoothie! Made with pureed oranges, creamy vanilla yogurt, and sweet honey, this drink is the perfect pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine orange juice concentrate, yogurt, and honey in a blender.
2. Add vanilla extract and blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until ice is crushed to your liking.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just blend and enjoy!)
Orange Teriyaki Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of teriyaki sauce with a burst of citrusy orange, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional teriyaki salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, orange juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Sprinkle grated ginger evenly over the top of each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange Poppy Seed Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion. The combination of orange zest, juice, and poppy seeds creates a delightful citrusy flavor profile that’s sure to please.
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
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
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, combine butter, eggs, orange juice, and zest. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange Ginger Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the sweetness of oranges with the warmth of ginger, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both refreshing and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add garlic and bell peppers; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Add chicken or tofu; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Stir in orange juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Ricotta Cookies
Brighten up your day with these soft and chewy cookies infused with the warmth of orange zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 orange (about 2 tbsp)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, ricotta cheese, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the orange zest and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette
A bright and citrusy twist on the classic vinaigrette, this orange balsamic dressing is perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dip. With its balanced blend of sweet and tangy flavors, it’s sure to elevate your dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a cold dressing.
Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins
Brighten up your morning with the perfect blend of citrus and chocolate in these moist and delicious Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins.
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 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Basil Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing combination of succulent shrimp, zesty orange, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, orange juice, and basil.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers or place on a plate for grilling.
4. Brush the orange-basil mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Orange Cinnamon Rolls
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these sweet and citrusy treats. These orange cinnamon rolls are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of orange, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, orange marmalade, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Avocado Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy sweetness of oranges, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With just a few simple ingredients and a short preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dip in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine diced avocado, orange juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Orange Pecan Granola
This homemade granola recipe combines the warmth of orange zest with the richness of pecans, perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, pecans, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of orange with the herbaceousness of rosemary, perfect for any occasion. These roasted potatoes are a delightful accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Drizzle orange juice over the potatoes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Coconut Energy Balls
These Orange Coconut Energy Balls are the perfect pick-me-up snack, packed with nutritious ingredients and a burst of citrus flavor. Whip up a batch to keep on hand for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, coconut flakes, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add orange marmalade to the peanut butter mixture and stir well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. If desired, fold in chocolate chips.
6. Use your hands to shape into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake and ready to devour in minutes.
Orange Spiced Tea
This soothing tea combines the invigorating flavors of orange and spices to create a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 4 whole cloves
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the black tea and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Remove from heat and add the orange juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
4. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the tea into a pot or individual cups.
6. Sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your meals with these 18 zesty orange recipes! From savory dishes like Orange Glazed Chicken and Orange Teriyaki Salmon, to sweet treats like Orange Marmalade Pancakes and Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try out refreshing salads, smoothies, and salsas that incorporate the tangy flavor of oranges. With recipes ranging from simple and easy to more complex and adventurous, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to add a burst of citrus to your cooking routine.
