These blood orange recipes are perfect for winter. Find ideas for breakfast, dessert, easy weeknight dinners, salads, cocktails, mocktails and more.
I wait all year for blood orange season.
Citrus is wonderful year-round, but blood oranges feel especially bright and festive in the colder months. Their deep color and vibrant flavor elevate simple dishes and special treats alike.
Below are 12 favorite blood orange recipes covering savory meals, salads, desserts and drinks. There’s something for every mood — which will you try first?
12 Blood Orange Recipes
If you need a weekend treat…
Try the Blood Orange Coffee Cake. This tender, citrusy cake is a winter favorite—bright, comforting and perfect with coffee or tea.
If you want something savory for the weekend…
Make Smoky Blood Orange BBQ Ribs for bold flavor and a beautiful glaze. The recipe also includes an avocado greens salad that pairs nicely with the rich ribs.
If you want a classic drink with a twist to beat the winter blues…
A Blood Orange Aperol Spritz is a refreshing, colorful take on a beloved classic—light, bubbly and perfect for brightening a chilly afternoon.
If you need a good weeknight dish…
Cajun Fish Tacos with Blood Orange Slaw are quick, flavorful and light. Spicy fish with a tangy, bright slaw makes for an easy go-to dinner.
If you want a nourishing bowl…
The Winter Chopped Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette is a favorite for good reason. It’s hearty, colorful and lifted by a vibrant citrus dressing.
Or a hearty but simple salad…
A winter kale salad with blood orange vinaigrette is satisfying and refreshing at the same time—great as a side or a light main.
If you love texture and crunch…
The Crispy Brussels Blood Orange Bowl delivers crisp roasted sprouts, bright citrus and contrasting textures for a memorable side or vegetarian main.
For a perfect cocktail…
The Blood Orange Bourbon Smash balances bright citrus with warm bourbon for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and comforting.
For a classic winter drink…
Blood Orange Margaritas are festive and vibrant—an easy way to add color and flavor to a winter gathering.
If you want a mocktail…
Blood Orange Coolers are a refreshing nonalcoholic option—bright, fruity and ideal for any time you want something light and zesty.
If you want a pretty dessert…
A Blood Orange Upside Down Cake makes a lovely, dramatic dessert—sweet, citrusy and a joy to serve.
And if you want a treat to make for the weekend ahead…
The Blood Orange Yogurt Cake is moist, tangy and wonderfully citrus-forward—perfect for brunch or a cozy weekend dessert.