As the weather starts to warm up and spring arrives, our thoughts turn to lighter, brighter flavors that evoke the sunshine. One of the most versatile and delicious ingredients in your pantry is the humble mandarin orange. These small, easy-to-peel citrus fruits are packed with flavor and offer a multitude of uses in both sweet and savory recipes. From glazes for salmon and ham to teas and sorbets, mandarins add a burst of citrusy goodness to any dish. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of mandarin oranges. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, these zesty recipes are sure to delight.
**Recipe Highlights:**
* Mandarin Orange Glazed Salmon: A sweet and savory glaze adds flavor to this healthy fish dish.
* Mandarin Orange and Spinach Salad: A refreshing twist on the classic green salad, with mandarin segments adding natural sweetness.
Mandarin Orange Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory Mandarin Orange Glazed Salmon recipe. This Asian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of citrus, ginger, and soy sauce to create a mouthwatering glaze for pan-seared salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mandarin orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mandarin orange juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Spinach Salad
A refreshing and light salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Mandarin Orange and Spinach Salad combines the sweetness of oranges with the earthiness of spinach. The tangy dressing brings everything together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 large mandarin orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Add the mandarin orange segments and feta cheese (if using) to the dressing bowl. Toss gently to coat.
4. Pour the dressing over the spinach leaves and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mandarin Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this quick and easy Mandarin Orange Chicken Stir-Fry recipe, featuring tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy orange sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (bell, yellow, orange), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add remaining oil, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add mandarin oranges, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and honey to the wok. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the wok and stir until coated with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mandarin Orange Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfectly topped with caramelized mandarin oranges, creating a sweet and tangy combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mandarin orange segments, sliced
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs and orange zest.
5. Arrange mandarin orange slices in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour batter over oranges and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mandarin Orange Sorbet
Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of mandarin oranges in a light and fruity sorbet perfect for warm weather. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for a quick dessert or palate cleanser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mandarin orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the mandarin orange juice, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus freezing time)
Mandarin Orange and Ginger Tea
Mandarin Orange and Ginger Tea Recipe
Warm up with a soothing cup of citrusy tea that combines the invigorating properties of ginger with the sweet zest of mandarin oranges.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mandarin orange peel (or 2-3 slices fresh mandarin orange)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mandarin orange peel and sliced ginger.
2. Add 4 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a large pot or individual cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Discard the solids or reserve them for another use (such as making marmalade).
6. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Mandarin Orange Marmalade
This sweet and tangy marmalade is made with the bright flavors of mandarin oranges, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mandarin orange slices (about 2-3 oranges)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine the mandarin orange slices, sugar, and water in a large saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and pectin.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Avocado Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy sweetness of mandarin oranges, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed mandarin orange juice
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, mandarin orange juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
2. Stir until well combined, adjusting the seasoning as needed with salt and lime juice if desired.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Note: You can adjust the level of spiciness by using more or less jalapeño pepper, or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder salsa.
Mandarin Orange Yogurt Parfait
Brighten up your day with this vibrant and flavorful parfait, featuring mandarin oranges, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup Mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup granola
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add one-quarter of the Mandarin orange segments on top of the yogurt.
4. Sprinkle one-eighth of the granola over the oranges.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of yogurt on top.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assembly only)
Mandarin Orange and Honey Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and tangy ham glazed to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup mandarin orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine mandarin orange juice, honey, brown sugar, mustard, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
6. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mandarin Orange Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy Mandarin Orange Smoothie Bowl, packed with the sweet and tangy flavors of mandarin oranges. This vibrant bowl is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mandarin oranges
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mandarin oranges, banana, and Greek yogurt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add honey and blend until well combined.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Top with granola and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Almond Biscotti
A sweet and crunchy Italian classic, infused with the bright flavors of mandarin orange and toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon mandarin orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed mandarin juice
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in eggs, mandarin zest, and juice.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Shape into logs and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Coconut Rice Pudding
A creamy and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the richness of coconut. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup mandarin orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup diced mandarin oranges
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, shredded coconut, sugar, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, mandarin orange juice, and diced mandarin oranges.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Mandarin Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart
Brighten up your dessert game with this sweet and tangy tart featuring mandarin oranges and dark chocolate. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and orange juice. Brush the mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Arrange mandarin segments on one half of the pastry, leaving a small border around them.
5. Drizzle melted chocolate over the oranges and fold the other half of the pastry to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the bright citrus flavor of mandarin oranges and the earthy aroma of thyme. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Arrange mandarin orange segments around the chicken in a single layer.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Pomegranate Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tartness of mandarin oranges with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and white wine vinegar.
2. Add the mandarin orange segments and toss gently to coat.
3. Stir in pomegranate seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and citrusy panna cotta, infused with the sweetness of mandarin 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 cup Mandarin orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in Mandarin orange juice, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Serve: Chilled, garnished with sliced mandarin oranges and a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Mandarin Orange and Walnut Bread
This sweet and savory bread combines the brightness of mandarin oranges with the richness of walnuts, perfect for a delicious breakfast or snack. The addition of orange zest adds an extra layer of citrusy flavor to this moist and aromatic loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine mandarin oranges, walnuts, orange zest, melted butter, and egg. Stir until well combined.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and inviting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and the warmth of cinnamon. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 mandarin orange, peeled and segmented
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the mandarin orange segments and salt.
4. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional mandarin orange segments if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Mint Infused Water
This refreshing drink combines the sweet flavor of mandarin oranges with the cooling essence of mint, making it perfect for hot summer days or as a revitalizing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter water
– 1/2 cup sliced mandarin oranges (about 2-3 oranges)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, add the sliced mandarin oranges and fresh mint leaves.
2. Pour in the liter of water, making sure that all the ingredients are fully submerged.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, stir well and add ice cubes if desired.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to burst with citrus flavor! This collection of 20 zesty mandarin orange recipes will satisfy your cravings for sweet and tangy flavors. From savory dishes like Mandarin Orange Glazed Salmon and Mandarin Orange Chicken Stir-Fry, to sweet treats like Mandarin Orange Upside-Down Cake and Mandarin Orange Sorbet, there’s something for everyone. Plus, refreshing beverages like Mandarin Orange and Ginger Tea and Mandarin Orange Infused Water will quench your thirst. Whether you’re a citrus lover or just looking to add some zest to your meals, these recipes are sure to delight!
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