Blood oranges stand out as one of the most striking fruits of the season, captivating with their deep red flesh and uniquely sweet-tart flavor profile. They’re not just a feast for the eyes; their versatility in the kitchen makes them a winter favorite. In this collection of 17 recipes, we showcase how blood oranges can transform any dish, from warm, inviting breads to crisp, refreshing cocktails.
Carrot Citrus Salad
This carrot citrus salad is a real winter treat. Tossed with roasted carrots and Meyer lemons, it’s the blood oranges that really make it pop. Perfect alongside your favorite poultry dish, it’s like a little burst of sunshine on a plate during the chilly season.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Citrus Salad
Sheet Pan Cornish Game Hens
Making dinner doesn’t get easier than this sheet pan Cornish game hens recipe. Throw in some blood oranges, rhubarb, fennel, and potatoes, and you’ve got yourself a no-fuss, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for any winter night. The blood oranges add that special zing that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Cornish Game Hens
Shaved Asparagus Blood Orange Salad
Shake up your salad game with this shaved asparagus and blood orange combo. It’s fresh, it’s crunchy, and it’s oh-so-flavorful, thanks to those juicy blood oranges. It’s the kind of light and tasty dish you need to break up those hearty winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Asparagus Blood Orange Salad
Chocolate Glazed Blood Orange Donuts
Who says you can’t have donuts in winter? These chocolate glazed blood orange donuts are the bomb – baked, filled with cream cheese, and totally irresistible. The blood orange twist is what makes them stand out. Perfect for those lazy, snowy mornings or just when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Glazed Blood Orange Donuts
Blood Orange Chia Pudding Parfaits
Prep these blood orange chia pudding parfaits the night before, and you’re all set for a zingy breakfast. Layered with blood orange chia jelly and vanilla yogurt, they’re a refreshing way to start a winter day. It’s like grabbing a piece of sunshine in a jar – bright, cheerful, and super tasty.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Chia Pudding Parfaits
Blood Orange Quick Bread
Quick breads are awesome, and this blood orange version is a winter winner. It’s got a unique tang from the blood oranges that’s just perfect with a hot cup of tea. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice (or two!). It’s like a cozy hug in bread form, really.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Quick Bread
Blood Orange Upside Down Cake
Ever tried a blood orange upside down cake? It’s a total game-changer. Super easy to whip up, and in just 10 minutes, you’ve got a cake that’s not just a treat for your taste buds but a feast for your eyes too. Winter baking just got a whole lot more exciting!
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Upside Down Cake
Moroccan Blood Orange & Black Olive Salad
This Moroccan blood orange and black olive salad is a color explosion! It’s got that sweet and savory mix that’ll jazz up any meal. Perfect for when you want to add a little wow-factor to your winter dining table. It’s as tasty as it is pretty.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Blood Orange & Black Olive Salad
Blood Orange Meringue Bars
These blood orange meringue bars are like little slices of heaven. With a buttery crust, tangy blood orange curd, and fluffy meringue on top, they’re a must-try dessert this winter. It’s all the goodness of blood oranges in a bar.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Meringue Bars
Blood Orange Sour Cream Cakes
Treat yourself to these blood orange sour cream cakes. Moist, flavorful, and just the right size for a sweet snack. The blood orange glaze on top? Chef’s kiss! They’re easy, they’re adorable, and they scream winter comfort.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Sour Cream Cakes
Blood Orange Shaker Tart
This blood orange shaker tart is the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and buttery. With blood orange slices and smooth curd in a crisp crust, it’s surprisingly easy to make. It looks fancy, tastes incredible, and is a winter dessert showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Shaker Tart
Blood Orange Juice Bread
Nothing beats homemade bread, especially this blood orange juice bread. Soft, moist, and with a hint of citrusy goodness, it’s a winter treat that goes great with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. It’s winter comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Juice Bread
Blood Orange Whisky Sour
Mix up your winter evenings with this easy blood orange whiskey sour. It’s got a perfect balance of citrus and bourbon, making it a refreshing yet warming drink. It’s the kind of cocktail that’ll make your winter nights a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Whisky Sour
Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Here’s a simple yet stunning dessert: blood orange olive oil cake. Easy to make and so pretty to look at, it’s perfect for brightening up those gloomy winter days. It’s got a lovely citrus flavor that’ll make you want a second slice.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Blood Orange Honey Old Fashioned
For a twist on a classic, try this blood orange honey old fashioned. It’s easy to make, looks gorgeous, and has a unique flavor that’ll definitely impress. Perfect for sipping on a cold winter evening.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Honey Old Fashioned
Blood Orange Margarita
Brighten up your winter with this refreshing blood orange margarita. It’s the perfect blend of citrusy, sweet, and tangy. Not too boozy, just right for a relaxing evening or a get-together. The color alone will have you thinking of sunny days.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Margarita
Blood Orange Moscow Mule
This blood orange Moscow mule is a winter favorite. With fresh blood orange juice, vodka, and ginger beer, it’s full of bright flavor and gorgeous color. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s the perfect drink to lift your spirits on a chilly day.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange Moscow Mule
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.