18 Zesty Calamondin Recipes Delicious

Venture into the vibrant world of calamondin with these 18 zesty recipes that promise to brighten your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for home cooks looking to add a citrusy twist to their meals, this roundup is your go-to guide for everything from refreshing beverages to delectable desserts. Ready to explore the unique flavor of calamondin? Let’s dive in!

Calamondin Marmalade

Dive into the zesty world of homemade spreads with this Calamondin Marmalade. It’s tangy, sweet, and ridiculously easy to whip up—your toast will thank you.

Ingredients

• Calamondin oranges – 2 cups, sliced thin
• Sugar – 2 cups
• Water – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Combine calamondin oranges and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, simmer for 20 minutes until fruit is soft.
3. Add sugar, stir until completely dissolved. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to prevent scratching your pot.
4. Increase heat to medium-high, boil for 15 minutes without stirring. Tip: Watch for the marmalade to reach 220°F on a candy thermometer for perfect set.
5. Remove from heat, skim off any foam with a spoon. Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before jarring.
6. Pour into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let cool to room temperature.

Lusciously glossy with a bright citrus kick, this marmalade is a game-changer. Spread it on scones, swirl into yogurt, or gift it in cute jars—it’s versatile and vibrant.

Calamondin Glazed Chicken

Transform your dinner with this zesty twist on chicken. Tangy calamondin glaze meets crispy skin for a bite that’s pure magic.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs – 4
• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Soy sauce – 1 tbsp
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Tip: Dry skin ensures crispiness.
3. Season both sides of chicken with garlic powder and salt.
4. Place chicken on baking sheet, skin side up. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. While chicken bakes, mix calamondin juice, honey, and soy sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
6. After 25 minutes, brush chicken with half the glaze. Bake for 10 more minutes.
7. Brush with remaining glaze. Bake for another 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Glazed to glossy perfection, the chicken boasts a sticky-sweet crust with a juicy interior. Serve over steamed rice to soak up every drop of that vibrant calamondin sauce.

Calamondin Pie

Whip up this zesty Calamondin Pie for a tangy twist on dessert that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Perfect for summer gatherings or when you’re craving something bright and bold.

Ingredients

• Pie crust – 1
• Calamondin juice – 1 cup
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Eggs – 3
• Butter – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges.
3. In a bowl, whisk together calamondin juice, sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. Tip: Strain the mixture to remove any pulp for a smoother filling.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust. Tip: Cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center. Tip: Let it cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.

This pie packs a punch with its vibrant citrus flavor and creamy texture. Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of zest for an extra kick.

Calamondin Sorbet

Kick off summer with this zesty Calamondin Sorbet—it’s tart, sweet, and ridiculously refreshing. Perfect for beating the heat or impressing at your next BBQ.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – 1 cup
• Sugar – ¾ cup
• Water – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature, approximately 30 minutes. Tip: Speed up cooling by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
3. Stir calamondin juice into the cooled syrup until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes. Tip: No ice cream maker? Freeze the mixture in a shallow dish, stirring every 30 minutes until firm, about 3-4 hours.
5. Transfer the sorbet to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours. Tip: For easier scooping, let the sorbet sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.

Just like that, you’ve got a vibrant sorbet with a bold citrus punch. Serve it in hollowed-out calamondin halves for a stunning, edible presentation.

Calamondin Vinaigrette

Punch up your salads with this zesty Calamondin Vinaigrette—bright, bold, and bursting with flavor in under 5 minutes.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ¼ cup
• Olive oil – ½ cup
• Honey – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together calamondin juice and honey until fully combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the vinaigrette. Tip: For a smoother emulsion, use room temperature ingredients.
3. Add salt and whisk again to incorporate. Tip: Taste and adjust salt if needed, but remember the flavors will meld as it sits.
4. Transfer to a jar, seal, and shake vigorously for 10 seconds before serving. Tip: Let the vinaigrette sit for 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Whisk this vibrant vinaigrette into your next salad for a tangy kick, or drizzle over grilled fish to elevate its natural sweetness. The texture is silky, with a perfect balance of sweet and tart that clings beautifully to greens.

Calamondin Cheesecake

Let’s dive into a zesty twist on a classic dessert that’s bound to brighten your day. This Calamondin Cheesecake blends creamy richness with a tangy punch, perfect for those who love a bold flavor profile.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs – 1 ½ cups
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Cream cheese – 24 oz, softened
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Eggs – 4

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures a gentle bake for a crack-free top.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a solid base.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth. Tip: Scrape the bowl’s sides to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
4. Gradually add calamondin juice, mixing until fully blended. The acidity balances the sweetness perfectly.
5. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause cracks.
6. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
7. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling prevents sinking.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.

Just imagine slicing into this creamy delight, where each bite offers a smooth texture with a vibrant citrus kick. Serve chilled with a drizzle of calamondin syrup for an extra zing or garnish with thin citrus slices for a photogenic finish.

Calamondin Infused Vodka

Crave a citrusy kick in your cocktail? This Calamondin Infused Vodka is your next DIY project—bright, bold, and begging for a spot in your liquor cabinet.

Ingredients

• Vodka – 1 cup
• Calamondin oranges – 6
• Sugar – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Wash 6 calamondin oranges thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
2. Slice each calamondin orange into thin rounds, removing any seeds as you go for a smoother infusion.
3. In a clean, airtight jar, layer the calamondin slices and ½ cup of sugar, pressing lightly to release some juices.
4. Pour 1 cup of vodka over the calamondin and sugar layers, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
5. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 7 days, shaking gently once a day to mix the flavors.
6. After 7 days, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid.
7. Discard the solids and enjoy your calamondin infused vodka chilled or in your favorite cocktail.

Outrageously versatile, this infused vodka boasts a tangy-sweet profile with a velvety texture. Serve it straight over ice for a zesty sipper or mix into a martini for a citrusy twist.

Calamondin Curd

Just when you thought citrus curds couldn’t get any more exciting, Calamondin Curd bursts onto the scene. This tangy, sweet spread is your new breakfast obsession—ready in minutes and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Sugar – ¾ cup
• Eggs – 3 large
• Butter – ½ cup, cubed

Instructions

1. Whisk calamondin juice, sugar, and eggs in a heatproof bowl until smooth.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water.
3. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula, until it thickens to coat the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium-low to prevent scrambling the eggs.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, one cube at a time, until fully melted and incorporated. Tip: For extra smooth curd, strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Tip: Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

Silky with a vibrant citrus punch, this curd shines on toast, swirled into yogurt, or as a filling for tartlets. The balance of sweet and tart is downright addictive.

Calamondin and Honey Tea

Crush your thirst with this zesty Calamondin and Honey Tea—bright, sweet, and ridiculously easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Water – 1 cup
• Ice cubes – 1 cup

Instructions

1. Heat water in a small pot until it reaches 200°F, about 3-4 minutes. Tip: Use a thermometer for precision.
2. Stir in honey until fully dissolved, about 1 minute. Tip: Raw honey adds depth.
3. Remove from heat and add calamondin juice, stirring to combine. Tip: Freshly squeezed juice maximizes flavor.
4. Pour the mixture over ice cubes in a glass.
5. Stir once more before serving.

Makes a tangy-sweet sip with a refreshing kick. Serve with a slice of calamondin on the rim for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Calamondin Bars

Elevate your dessert game with these zesty Calamondin Bars—tangy, sweet, and irresistibly chewy.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Flour – 1 cup
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Eggs – 2

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until combined. Tip: Ensure the butter is slightly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Gradually fold in flour until just combined. Tip: Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
5. Stir in calamondin juice until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Tip: Check at 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
8. Cool completely in pan before cutting into squares.

Rich with citrus flavor, these bars boast a soft center and slightly crisp edges. Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Calamondin Chutney

Viral flavors alert! This Calamondin Chutney is your next kitchen obsession—tangy, sweet, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Perfect for glazing, dipping, or spooning straight from the jar.

Ingredients

• Calamondin oranges – 2 cups, halved
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Apple cider vinegar – ½ cup
• Ginger – 1 tbsp, grated
• Red chili flakes – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Combine calamondin oranges, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the sugar.
3. Add grated ginger and red chili flakes, then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Tip: The chutney should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Tip: It thickens more as it cools, so don’t over-reduce.

Yummy doesn’t begin to cover it—this chutney’s sticky texture and bold citrus kick make it a killer companion to grilled cheeses or roasted meats. Try swirling it into yogurt for a quick, fancy dip.

Calamondin Salad Dressing

Punch up your greens with this zesty Calamondin Salad Dressing—bright, bold, and ridiculously easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ¼ cup
• Olive oil – ½ cup
• Honey – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together calamondin juice and honey until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing.
3. Add salt and whisk for another 30 seconds to ensure everything is well combined.
4. Let the dressing sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Give it a final whisk before drizzling over your favorite salad.

Absolutely vibrant with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this dressing clings beautifully to leafy greens. Try it on a spinach and strawberry salad for a refreshing twist.

Calamondin Poppy Seed Cake

Capture the zesty vibes of summer with this tangy, sweet calamondin poppy seed cake—moist, fluffy, and packed with citrusy punch.

Ingredients

• Flour – 2 cups
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Butter – ½ cup, softened
• Eggs – 3
• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Poppy seeds – 2 tbsp
• Baking powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in calamondin juice until combined.
5. In another bowl, whisk flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Tip: Overmixing leads to a dense cake.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan. Smooth top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tip: Check at 30 minutes to prevent overbaking.
9. Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: For extra moisture, brush warm cake with calamondin syrup.

Outrageously moist with a crumb that’s just right, this cake is a citrus lover’s dream. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Calamondin Grilled Shrimp

Now, let’s dive into a dish that’s bursting with zesty flavors and ready in a flash. Perfect for summer nights, this recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers.

Ingredients

• Shrimp – 1 lb
• Calamondin juice – ¼ cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a bowl, mix calamondin juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Tip: Freshly squeezed calamondin juice elevates the flavor.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Tip: Don’t marinate longer to avoid the shrimp becoming mushy.
4. Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and slightly charred.

Ready to serve? These shrimp are tangy, with a perfect smoky char. Try them over a bed of greens or with a side of grilled veggies for a complete meal.

Calamondin Ice Cream

Unleash a tropical twist on your dessert game with this zesty Calamondin Ice Cream. Bold, bright, and ridiculously creamy—it’s summer in a scoop.

Ingredients

• Heavy cream – 2 cups
• Whole milk – 1 cup
• Sugar – ¾ cup
• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Salt – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes—do not boil.
2. Remove from heat. Stir in calamondin juice. Tip: Strain the juice for a smoother texture.
3. Cool the mixture in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
4. Pour into an ice cream maker. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 20-25 minutes. Tip: The mixture should thicken to soft-serve consistency.
5. Transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for 4 hours, or until firm. Tip: Cover with parchment paper pressed directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals.

Creamy with a punchy citrus kick, this ice cream shines solo or paired with fresh berries. Try sandwiching it between shortbread cookies for an epic dessert hack.

Calamondin Sauce for Fish

Vibrant and zesty, this calamondin sauce transforms any fish dish into a tropical getaway. Whip it up in minutes for a bright, tangy kick that’s irresistibly fresh.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Honey – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine calamondin juice, honey, and minced garlic over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the honey is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in olive oil and salt until fully incorporated.
5. Let the sauce cool for 5 minutes before drizzling over your favorite cooked fish.

Bold in flavor yet silky in texture, this sauce clings beautifully to grilled or baked fish. Try it over salmon for a citrusy contrast or mix into rice for an unexpected twist.

Calamondin Pancakes

Pancakes get a zesty upgrade with calamondin, the citrusy secret to flipping your breakfast game. These aren’t your average stack—they’re bright, bold, and begging for a syrup drizzle.

Ingredients

• Flour – 1 cup
• Sugar – 2 tbsp
• Baking powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Milk – ¾ cup
• Egg – 1
• Butter – 2 tbsp, melted
• Calamondin juice – ¼ cup
• Calamondin zest – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
2. In another bowl, beat milk, egg, melted butter, calamondin juice, and zest until smooth.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until just combined. Tip: Lumps are okay—overmixing makes tough pancakes.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (350°F). Wait until a water droplet sizzles to test readiness.
5. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and edges look set, about 2 minutes.
6. Flip carefully; cook until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes more. Tip: Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F oven as you cook the rest.
7. Serve immediately. Tip: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle powdered sugar for extra flair.

These pancakes are fluffy with a tangy twist, thanks to calamondin. Try stacking them high with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a show-stopping brunch.

Calamondin Cocktail

Hit refresh on your cocktail game with this zesty Calamondin Cocktail. It’s a tangy, sweet sip that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

Ingredients

• Calamondin juice – ½ cup
• Vodka – 2 oz
• Simple syrup – 1 oz
• Ice – 1 cup
• Mint leaves – 2

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with 1 cup of ice to chill your cocktail perfectly.
2. Pour ½ cup of calamondin juice into the shaker for a citrusy base.
3. Add 2 oz of vodka to the shaker, balancing the tartness with a smooth kick.
4. Measure 1 oz of simple syrup and add it to the mix, sweetening just right.
5. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
6. Strain into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice to keep it cool and diluted just enough.
7. Garnish with 2 mint leaves, lightly clapping them between your hands to release their aroma before placing on top.

Now the cocktail boasts a vibrant tang with a whisper of sweetness, perfect for sipping under the sun. Try rimming the glass with sugar mixed with calamondin zest for an extra zing.

Conclusion

Packed with vibrant flavors, our roundup of 18 Zesty Calamondin Recipes offers a treasure trove of delicious ideas to brighten your meals. From tangy desserts to refreshing drinks, there’s something for every palate. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and adore—drop a comment below! Don’t forget to share the zest by pinning your favorites on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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