What to Do With Lots of Navel Oranges? 41 Ideas for Best Use of Navel Oranges

If you find yourself with an abundance of navel oranges, count yourself fortunate! These citrus gems are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile.

Whether you’ve inherited a surplus from a neighbor’s tree or couldn’t resist a great deal at the farmers’ market, we’ve got you covered with creative and delicious ways to make the most of your navel orange bounty.

What to Do With Lots of Navel Oranges: Best uses for navel oranges

When you have lots of navel oranges, you can make orange marmalade, citrus upside-down cake, or orange chicken.

Preserving an abundant supply of navel oranges can be a delightful task, as there are numerous delectable and resourceful ways to utilize this vibrant citrus fruit.

Whether savoring the sweetness of freshly squeezed orange juice, indulging in decadent orange marmalade, or relishing the zesty flavor in savory dishes, navel oranges offer versatile culinary possibilities.

From tangy orange-infused desserts to succulent citrus-based entreés, the versatility of navel oranges adds a delectable zest to your meals.

Additionally, consider freezing or drying the peel for future use, or generously share your surplus with friends, neighbors, or local charities to spread the citrusy joy.

Let’s explore more different things to do with lots of navel oranges – 

Homemade Navel Orange Juice:

One of the simplest and most refreshing ways to use an abundance of navel oranges is to make your own fresh orange juice.

Squeeze the oranges to extract the juice, and either enjoy it as is or mix it with other citrus fruits for a unique blend.

You can refrigerate the juice for a cool and invigorating drink, or use it as a base for smoothies.

Orange Infused Water:

Upgrade your hydration routine by infusing water with slices of navel oranges.

This not only adds a subtle citrus flavor but also encourages you to drink more water throughout the day.

Fill a pitcher with water, toss in orange slices, and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. The result is a delicious and refreshing alternative to plain water.

Simple Citrus Salad with Navel Oranges:

Create a vibrant and nutritious salad by incorporating navel oranges into the mix.

Peel and segment the oranges, then toss them with mixed greens, sliced almonds, and feta cheese.

Drizzle a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey for a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

This citrus-infused salad is not only visually appealing but also a palate-pleasing dish.

Navel Orange Salsa:

Put a zesty twist on your meals by creating a homemade navel orange salsa.

Combine diced navel oranges with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and a splash of lime juice.

This vibrant salsa pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken or fish, tacos, or even as a topping for tortilla chips.

The combination of sweet citrus and spicy elements creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.

Citrus Glazed Chicken:

Transform your regular chicken recipe into a citrus-infused delight.

Create a simple glaze by combining freshly squeezed navel orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic.

Use this glaze to coat chicken pieces before roasting or grilling. The result is a succulent and flavorful dish with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.

Orange and Yogurt Parfait:

Elevate your breakfast or dessert with a delightful orange and yogurt parfait.

Layer Greek yogurt with segments of navel oranges and a sprinkle of granola or nuts.

Drizzle honey over each layer for added sweetness. This parfait is not only a visually appealing treat but also a healthy and satisfying way to enjoy the goodness of navel oranges.

Orange and Avocado Salad:

Combine the creamy texture of avocados with the refreshing taste of navel oranges to create a vibrant salad.

Slice navel oranges and avocados, then arrange them on a bed of arugula or mixed greens.

Drizzle with a light citrus vinaigrette, and sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch. This salad provides a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Navel Orange Sorbet:

Beat the heat with a homemade navel orange sorbet. Blend peeled and segmented navel oranges with a bit of honey or simple syrup until smooth.

Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker or a shallow dish, stirring occasionally to prevent ice crystals.

The result is a refreshing and citrusy sorbet, perfect for a cool and guilt-free dessert on a hot day.

Citrus Infused Grilled Shrimp:

Take your grilled shrimp to the next level by infusing them with the citrusy goodness of navel oranges.

Create a marinade using orange juice, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes before grilling. The result is succulent shrimp with a flavorful citrus kick, making for a delicious and light meal.

Navel Orange Chutney:

Turn your surplus of navel oranges into a flavorful chutney that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Combine diced navel oranges with red onion, ginger, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar in a saucepan.

Simmer until the mixture thickens into a chutney-like consistency. This versatile condiment complements grilled meats, cheeses, or can be used as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

Citrus Infused Quinoa Salad:

Create a nutritious and refreshing quinoa salad by incorporating navel oranges.

Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Mix in orange segments, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh herbs like mint or cilantro.

Drizzle with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a light and satisfying dish.

Orange Zest Baked Goods:

Don’t forget about the aromatic zest of navel oranges! Incorporate finely grated orange zest into your baking endeavors.

Whether it’s orange zest-infused muffins, scones, or even a citrus-flavored pound cake, the zest adds a burst of citrusy aroma and flavor that can transform your baked goods into delightful treats.

Navel Orange and Honey Glazed Carrots:

Elevate the humble carrot by preparing a side dish with a navel orange and honey glaze.

Steam or roast carrots until tender, then toss them in a sauce made from fresh orange juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.

The natural sweetness of the oranges combined with honey creates a delectable glaze that transforms carrots into a flavorful and colorful accompaniment.

Orange and Ginger Infused Iced Tea:

Refresh yourself with a homemade iced tea infused with the bright flavors of navel oranges and ginger.

Brew your favorite tea, let it cool, and add freshly squeezed orange juice along with thin slices of navel oranges and a few slices of fresh ginger.

Chill the concoction in the refrigerator for a few hours, and serve over ice for a revitalizing citrusy beverage.

Orange-Cinnamon Baked Salmon:

Give your salmon a citrusy twist by baking it with a flavorful orange and cinnamon glaze.

Mix together orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Brush the glaze over salmon fillets before baking.

The result is a succulent and aromatic dish that combines the richness of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of navel oranges.

Navel Orange and Rosemary Roasted Chicken:

Infuse your roasted chicken with a burst of citrusy and herbal goodness.

Mix together freshly squeezed navel orange juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and olive oil to create a marinade.

Rub the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Roast the chicken until golden brown and enjoy the harmonious combination of citrus and herbs.

Orange-Glazed Brussels Sprouts:

Transform Brussels sprouts into a delightful side dish by incorporating navel oranges.

Roast or sauté Brussels sprouts until they’re crisp-tender, then drizzle with a glaze made from orange zest, orange juice, and a touch of maple syrup.

This sweet and tangy glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor that complements the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts.

Citrusy Orange and Yogurt Popsicles:

Beat the heat with homemade popsicles that blend the creaminess of yogurt with the freshness of navel oranges.

Mix together Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a bit of honey. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.

These citrusy popsicles make for a refreshing and guilt-free treat on warm days.

Orange-Ginger Glazed Tofu Stir-Fry:

Give your tofu stir-fry a burst of flavor by incorporating navel oranges into the glaze.

Mix together orange juice, grated ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of cornstarch to create a glaze.

Sauté tofu until golden brown, then add vegetables of your choice and pour the orange-ginger glaze over the stir-fry.

The result is a sweet and savory dish with a zesty kick.

Navel Orange and Basil Infused Watermelon Salad:

Create a refreshing and unique fruit salad by combining juicy watermelon with navel oranges and fresh basil.

Cube the watermelon and segment the oranges, then toss them together with thinly sliced basil leaves.

This vibrant and aromatic salad is perfect for a light and refreshing dessert or a side dish at summer gatherings.

Orange-Lavender Infused Honey:

Make a fragrant and versatile infused honey using navel oranges and lavender.

Zest an orange and combine the zest with dried lavender in a jar. Warm honey gently, and pour it over the orange zest and lavender.

Allow the mixture to infuse for a few days.

This citrusy and floral-infused honey can be drizzled over desserts, added to tea, or used as a unique topping for pancakes or yogurt.

Orange-Cranberry Couscous:

Elevate your couscous by adding a burst of citrusy sweetness with navel oranges and the tartness of cranberries.

Cook couscous according to package instructions, then toss in orange segments, dried cranberries, and a handful of chopped pistachios for added crunch.

Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a flavorful and colorful side dish.

Navel Orange and Thyme Chicken Skewers:

Create flavorful and juicy chicken skewers with the dynamic combination of navel oranges and thyme.

Cube chicken breasts and marinate them in a mixture of orange juice, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and olive oil.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until cooked through.

The result is a succulent dish with a perfect blend of citrusy and herbal notes.

Orange-Creamsicle Smoothie:

Indulge in a nostalgic treat by blending up a refreshing orange-creamsicle smoothie.

Combine navel orange segments with Greek yogurt, a splash of milk, and a touch of vanilla extract.

Blend until smooth and enjoy a creamy and citrusy beverage reminiscent of the classic creamsicle. This smoothie is a delightful way to cool down on warm days.

Citrus Avocado Salsa:

Create a refreshing and versatile salsa by combining navel oranges with ripe avocados.

Dice navel oranges and avocados, and mix them with finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

This vibrant salsa pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, or as a topping for tacos, adding a burst of citrusy goodness to your meals.

Orange-Cinnamon Granola:

Elevate your breakfast or snack game by making homemade orange-cinnamon granola.

Mix rolled oats with orange zest, cinnamon, honey, and a touch of melted coconut oil.

Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. Add dried fruits, nuts, or seeds of your choice for extra flavor and texture.

Enjoy this crunchy and aromatic granola with yogurt or milk.

Orange-Basil Chicken Pasta:

Create a refreshing pasta dish by incorporating the citrusy flavor of navel oranges and the aromatic touch of basil.

Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions. In a pan, sauté diced chicken with orange zest, fresh basil, and a splash of cream.

Toss the cooked pasta in the flavorful sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delightful and comforting meal.

Orange-Glazed Salmon Tacos:

Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your taco night by preparing orange-glazed salmon tacos.

Marinate salmon fillets in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, cumin, and a pinch of chili powder.

Grill or bake the salmon until cooked through, then flake it into tortillas.

Top with a refreshing slaw made from shredded cabbage, diced navel oranges, and cilantro for a flavorful and vibrant taco experience.

Citrusy Orange Sorbet Float:

Cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth with a delightful orange sorbet float.

Scoop orange sorbet into a glass and pour sparkling water or your favorite citrus-flavored soda over it.

Garnish with a slice of navel orange for an extra citrusy touch. This simple and refreshing treat is perfect for a hot day or as a sweet ending to a meal.

Orange-Ginger Teriyaki Stir-Fry:

Infuse your stir-fry with a burst of citrus and warmth by incorporating navel oranges and ginger into a teriyaki sauce.

Combine soy sauce, orange juice, grated ginger, and a touch of honey.

Stir-fry your favorite vegetables and protein of choice, then toss them in the orange-ginger teriyaki sauce for a flavorful and aromatic twist.

Navel Orange Bruschetta:

Put a citrusy spin on the classic bruschetta by incorporating navel oranges.

Dice navel oranges and mix them with cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Spoon this vibrant mixture onto toasted baguette slices for a refreshing and visually appealing appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings.

Citrus Infused Couscous Stuffed Peppers:

Create a vibrant and flavorful dish by stuffing bell peppers with citrus-infused couscous.

Cook couscous with a blend of orange juice and vegetable broth, then mix in diced navel oranges, pine nuts, and chopped fresh mint.

Stuff the mixture into halved and roasted bell peppers for a colorful and citrusy twist on a classic stuffed pepper recipe.

Orange and Almond Quinoa Bowl:

Create a wholesome and nutritious quinoa bowl by combining cooked quinoa with navel orange segments, sliced almonds, and fresh mint.

Drizzle the bowl with a dressing made from orange juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey.

This citrus-infused quinoa bowl is not only delicious but also a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Navel Orange BBQ Sauce:

Give your barbecue a unique twist by preparing a homemade orange-infused BBQ sauce.

In a saucepan, combine navel orange juice, ketchup, brown sugar, and a mix of spices such as garlic powder and paprika.

Simmer the mixture until it thickens, and use it as a glaze for grilled meats or as a dipping sauce for your favorite barbecue dishes.

Citrusy Orange and Poppy Seed Muffins:

Add a burst of citrus flavor to your morning routine with homemade orange and poppy seed muffins.

Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add navel orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, poppy seeds, and fold in the batter.

Bake until golden brown, and enjoy these moist and flavorful muffins with your morning coffee or tea.

Orange and Mint Infused Water:

Create a refreshing and hydrating beverage by infusing water with the bright flavors of navel oranges and fresh mint.

Slice navel oranges and add them, along with a handful of mint leaves, to a pitcher of water.

Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, and enjoy a delicious and revitalizing infused water.

Citrus-Glazed Sweet Potatoes:

Elevate your sweet potato side dish with a citrusy glaze.

Roast sweet potato wedges until they are almost tender, then brush them with a glaze made from navel orange juice, maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Continue roasting until the sweet potatoes are caramelized and infused with the delightful citrus flavor.

Navel Orange and Hazelnut Salad:

Create a sophisticated and flavorful salad by combining navel orange segments with mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted hazelnuts.

Drizzle the salad with a vinaigrette made from navel orange juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.

The combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors makes this salad a delicious and elegant dish.

These additional ideas offer a mix of savory and sweet options, allowing you to explore the versatility of navel oranges in your culinary creations.

From savory salsas to sweet parfaits, these recipes showcase the diverse ways you can incorporate an abundance of navel oranges into your meals.

You Can Preserve: Preserving Navel Oranges

Preserving navel oranges is easy and delicious. Peel, segment, and freeze them for use in fruit salads or as a flavor boost in drinks and recipes.

You can also donate excess oranges to a food bank or homeless shelter.

Freezing Techniques

One simple way to preserve navel oranges is by freezing them. To do this, peel the oranges, segment them, and then store the slices in a freezer-safe container.

These frozen orange slices are perfect for adding to fruit salads or using as a flavorful garnish.

Canning And Pickling

Canning or pickling navel oranges can prolong their shelf life. You can create orange marmalade or orange pickles to enjoy the taste of oranges year-round.

These preserved navel oranges can be used in various dishes and recipes.

Health And Beauty Uses

When you find yourself with an abundance of navel oranges, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that they have a variety of health and beauty uses.

In addition to being a delicious and nutritious fruit, navel oranges can also be utilized in DIY beauty products, and they offer several health benefits when included in your regular routine.

Diy Beauty Products

Navel oranges can serve as a natural ingredient in DIY beauty products, providing your skin with nourishment and radiance.

Create a refreshing orange and honey face mask by mixing orange juice, honey, and a small amount of yogurt.

This mask can help rejuvenate your skin and offer a soothing, hydrating effect.

Health Benefits

Incorporating navel oranges into your diet can offer a range of health benefits, thanks to their high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties.

Vitamin C supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin, while antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Consuming navel oranges can contribute to overall wellness and a glowing complexion.

Creative Home Decor And Crafts

Discover innovative ways to incorporate navel oranges into your home decor and craft projects, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to your living space.

Scented Potpourri

Transform your space with delightful homemade scented potpourri using dried navel orange slices.

Simply slice the oranges, dry them in the oven, and combine them with your favorite fragrant ingredients like cinnamon sticks and cloves.

Place in decorative bowls around your home for a natural and inviting aroma.

Natural Cleaning Solutions

Create eco-friendly cleaning solutions by infusing orange peels in vinegar for a few weeks.

The citrus oils in the peels will naturally lift dirt and grime, leaving your surfaces sparkling clean.

Use this all-purpose cleaner on countertops, floors, and more for a fresh and chemical-free home.

Conclusion

Having an abundance of navel oranges opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From simple snacks to gourmet delights, these citrus fruits can be enjoyed in numerous ways.

So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the citrus bounty, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen.

Your taste buds will thank you for the vibrant and delicious journey through the world of navel oranges!