Fruit | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Vegetarian

Orange

Citrus × sinensis Allergen-Free
orange

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Winter to Spring (Varies by cultivar)
  • Source Orange tree fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"The Zesty Vitamin Boost"

Definition

A widely cultivated citrus fruit, round and typically orange-colored, known for its sweet, juicy pulp and high vitamin C content, consumed fresh or juiced.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tangy, Citrusy, Slightly Bitter (peel)
TextureJuicy pulp, Fibrous membranes, Zesty peel
AromaBright Citrus, Fresh, Zesty
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Global Production

Over 70 million tons annually

pH Level

3.0-4.0

Vitamin C (per 100g)

Approx. 53 mg

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium fruit (131g)
Calories47 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.9 g
Total Carbohydrate11.8 g
Dietary Fiber2.4 g
Total Sugars9.4 g
Calcium40 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium181 mg

Chef’s Secret

Zest oranges before juicing; it contains potent aromatic oils for intense flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mandarin Orange

1:1

Similar sweetness and flavor, but smaller, easier to peel, and less acidic.

Grapefruit

1:1

Provides similar citrus tang, but significantly more bitter and less sweet.

Orange Juice

1:1 (liquid)

Good for liquid applications where pulp isn't needed, but lacks texture and zest.

Lemon/Lime

1:2 (Orange:Lemon/Lime)

Offers acidity and citrus notes, but much more tart and lacks the orange's sweetness.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, heavy oranges with smooth, brightly colored skin. Avoid soft spots.

Flavor Pairings

Chicken Duck Pork Salads Chocolate Fennel Mint

Recipes Using Orange

Inexpensive Holiday Event Low Sodium 15 Minutes Or Less

3 Fruit Salad

This 3-Fruit Salad recipe has been a holiday favorite in our family for three generations! It's incredibly easy, delicious, and perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen. The faster you chop, the faster you enjoy this refreshing blend of oranges, apples, bananas, and walnuts, tossed in a creamy dressing. Enjoy it during the holidays or any time of year – it's especially delightful on a hot summer day!

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Low Calorie Healthy 2 For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings

5 A Day Smoothie

Fuel your body with this vibrant and delicious 5-A-Day Power Smoothie! Packed with 2 servings of vegetables and 3 servings of fruit, this quick and easy recipe is the perfect way to get your daily dose of vitamins and antioxidants without any cooking. A refreshing orange-flavored blend that's both healthy and satisfying – perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout boost, or anytime snack!

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Seasonal Condiments Etc A1 Sauce Preparation

A 1 Black Cherry Brie Chocolate Walnut Tartlet A1

Indulge in these decadent A1 Black Cherry Brie Chocolate Walnut Tartlets! Flaky puff pastry shells cradle creamy French brie, layered with a unique A1 steak sauce-infused black cherry sauce, and finished with rich dark chocolate-covered roasted walnuts. This seasonal, savory-sweet masterpiece is perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or a delightful dessert. A recipe inspired by an original sauce recipe contest entry.

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French Served Cold Breakfast 3 Steps Or Less

After The Party Is Over Refreshing Detox Fresh Fruit Salad

Kickstart your day or recover from a festive feast with this vibrant and healthy fruit salad! Perfect for brunch the morning after a celebration, or as a light yet impressive dessert. This colorful mix of fresh fruits is packed with vitamins and antioxidants for a quick mental and physical boost. Easily adaptable to seasonal produce, it's delicious served plain, with a dollop of crème fraîche or vanilla yogurt, or even with a champagne twist for a special occasion! This recipe serves 6-8 people but is easily scalable.

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Cuisine Low In Something Healthy Brunch

Allegria Non Alcoholic

Discover the vibrant joy of Allegria, a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail inspired by Salvatore Calabrese's "Complete Home Bartender's Guide." This vibrant drink, meaning "happiness" in Italian, is perfect for a warm afternoon or any occasion where you crave a burst of fruity flavor. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, Allegria is a delightful treat that's sure to become a new favorite!

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Nuts 60 Minutes Or Less Desserts Low In Something

Almond Citrus Coconut Tart With Gluten Free Option

Indulge in this dreamy Almond Citrus Coconut Tart! A delightful twist on the classic impossible pie, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and boasts a luxuriously moist and dense texture. The vibrant citrus flavors (use any combination you like – lemons, limes, mandarins, oranges!) perfectly complement the creamy almond and coconut base. Enjoy this chilled dessert masterpiece, easily adaptable for gluten-free diets using a simple flour swap. Prepare to be amazed!

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Condiments Etc Poultry Thanksgiving Equipment

Apple Cider Brine

Unlock the secret to the most succulent, flavorful turkey breast this holiday season! Our Apple Cider Brine recipe guarantees moist, tender meat that will impress your guests. This easy-to-follow brine recipe infuses your turkey with the perfect balance of sweet and tart apple cider flavor, creating a truly unforgettable centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.

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Healthy Occasion Healthy Preparation

Aunt Meda's Cranberry Salad

A family favorite, this cranberry salad recipe from Aunt Meda is bursting with tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering, this easy-to-make salad requires minimal prep and chills overnight to develop its signature flavor profile. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Summer 15 Minutes Or Less Beverages Spring

Authentic Spanish Sangria

Tired of watery, Americanized sangria? This recipe, perfected after two years of exploring hundreds of bars across Spain, delivers the authentic Madrid experience. Forget sugary grape juice – this vibrant sangria bursts with the fresh flavors of Spain. We've even included a fantastic substitute for hard-to-find Spanish ingredients. Prepare to impress your guests with this truly authentic taste of Spain!

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Beverages Fall Occasion Course

Autumn Tea

Embrace the crisp autumn air with this irresistible Autumn Spice Tea! Perfectly comforting on a chilly evening or a brisk fall hike (don't forget your thermos!), this recipe blends warm spices and fragrant tea for a delightful treat. Quick and easy to make, it's the perfect fall beverage to warm your soul.

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Preparation Lettuces Easy 3 Steps Or Less

Avocado Orange Salad For Two

A vibrant and refreshing Avocado Orange Salad, ready in just 15 minutes! This recipe, inspired by Cuisine at Home, is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side dish. Sweet oranges and creamy avocado combine beautifully in a zesty dressing. For an extra special treat, try using in-season blood oranges for a deeper, more complex flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!

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Brunch Fruit Punch Course

Baby Shower Pink Cloud Punch

This dreamy pink punch is the perfect centerpiece for a baby girl's shower or birthday party! Its vibrant color and refreshing taste will wow your guests. Made with a simple combination of lemonade, lemon-lime soda, and sherbet, this easy recipe comes together in minutes. The sherbet adds a delightful swirl of color and a burst of fruity flavor that melts beautifully into the punch, creating a subtly sweet and tangy beverage. For an extra special touch, use fun ice cube molds to create adorable shapes! (See also recipe #292039 for variations).

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Low Carb Low Fat Cocktails 3 Steps Or Less

Bahama Mama A La Carolina

Escape to paradise with this vibrant twist on the classic Bahama Mama! My signature recipe blends the perfect balance of sweet and tart, creating a refreshing and unforgettable cocktail experience. Easy to make in just minutes, this is the ultimate tropical drink for your next party or relaxing evening.

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Main Dish 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Presentation

Baked Citrus Mahi Mahi

Flaky mahi mahi fillets baked to perfection with a burst of citrusy flavor! This vibrant recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable to other mild white fish like cod or tilapia. Impress your family with this elegant yet simple dish, ready in under an hour!

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Beverages Presentation Food Processor Blender Easy

Banana Orange Shake

Start your day with a burst of sunshine! This vibrant Banana Orange Sunshine Shake is a delicious and healthy breakfast or a quick pick-me-up any time of day. Sweet, tangy, and creamy, this easy 2-minute recipe is packed with vitamins and flavor. Perfect for a healthy snack or a refreshing treat.

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Healthy 30 Minutes Or Less Cuisine Dietary

Bbq Bananas

Experience the taste of New Zealand with this unique BBQ Bananas recipe! Sweet bananas caramelize to perfection on the grill, infused with rum, cinnamon, and orange. A simple yet unforgettable dessert, perfect for summer barbecues or a unique twist on a classic. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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American Occasion 60 Minutes Or Less Cuisine

Big Beautiful Orange Muffins

Bake up stunning, oversized orange muffins bursting with citrus flavor! These beauties are perfect for brunch, dessert, or a delightful afternoon treat. The recipe includes a simple yet elegant cream cheese frosting and a charming flower garnish for an impressive presentation. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Course Beverages Dietary 3 Steps Or Less

Spiced Cider

Warm up with this irresistible Spiced Apple Cider! A perfectly balanced blend of tart cranberry and sweet apple juice, infused with aromatic pumpkin pie spice and a touch of honey. Customize the sweetness to your liking – add extra honey for a richer flavor, or skip it entirely for a more tart and tangy experience. This easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings. The honey enhances the spices, creating a smooth and incredibly flavorful cider that will become your new fall favorite!

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