14 Citrus Recipes to Brighten Your Day

This bread is bursting at every seam with bright citrus flavor. Freshly grated orange zest is incorporated into the batter and we highly recommend that you drizzle it with a quick and easy orange-lemon glaze!

Cake makes people happy. Orange makes people happy. Put them together, and you’re going to get one hefty dose of happiness! You do need to make the orange curd a day in advance, but don’t let that stop you because you need this cake in your life!

Sometimes pasta dishes can feel heavy, but not this one! It’s light and fresh and so simple to make. Whip this up for a quick weeknight win.

Adding a little lime zest and lime juice literally transforms your rice into something absolutely phenomenal that you probably won’t want to share. Use basmati rice for best results and don’t forget to toast it lightly. It really deepens the flavor!

Ever thought of making a salsa out of oranges? You 100% need to! Simply mix the oranges with lots of cilantro, then sprinkle queso fresco (or feta) and avocado over top. This easy salsa transforms the steak into a real standout with Mexican flair.

Feel like turning up the heat? Toss your green beans in a citrusy/spicy/slightly sweet sauce that blends together in perfect harmony!

Grapefruit + avocados are an unexpected combo, but it works! Pinky promise. Avocado loves the bright splash of acidic citrus, and grapefruit loves the warm richness of avocado

If you want to make every single one of your taste buds happy, try this fruit cocktail. It’s far from boring with both sweet and savory flavors. It’s absolutely delicious in an unexpected way!

We can’t talk about bright and fresh recipes without talking about Key Lime Pie! It’s the pie version of lime-flavored Starburst candies.

This recipe makes two cakes, which means you can freeze a loaf for a rainy day. It’s a light and fresh cake with soft citrus flavor baked into a rich and moist cake. It’s what every lazy afternoon needs!

Lemon and ricotta are a match made in heaven, especially in these pancakes. Ricotta adds richness without making the pancakes heavy or dense, and lemon adds a perky flavor that dances in your mouth when you take the first bite.

Fresh and zippy goodness in under 30 minutes! How’s that for brightening up your day? This salad has everything you’re looking for.

This isn’t your ordinary blondie recipe. Get ready to sink your teeth into the lightest and chewiest blondie in all the land. Be sure to make an extra batch because these will disappear faster than you can dish them out!

This has been a reader favorite for years! The acidity from the lemon helps balance the stronger flavor of the dark meat in thighs and legs. It pairs well with rice, buttered noodles, angel hair pasta, or even mashed potatoes.