Heart-Healthy Zesty Orange Sauce
Elevate your meals with this Heart-Healthy Zesty Orange Sauce, a vibrant, low-sodium topping that adds a burst of citrusy flavor to any dish. Made with freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and a touch of natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup, this sauce is both refreshing and wholesome. The addition of ground ginger and apple cider vinegar creates a perfectly balanced tang, while the optional chili flakes offer a subtle kick for those who love a hint of spice. Thickened with cornstarch for a smooth, glossy finish, this versatile sauce pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, grilled salmon, baked tofu, or whole-grain dishes. Quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes, it’s a delicious way to add flavor while supporting heart health.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 orange zest of an orange
- 0.5 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 pinch pinch of salt
- 0.125 teaspoon optional chili flakes
Instructions
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, low-sodium vegetable broth, honey or maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt over medium heat.
Whisk the mixture together and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until fully dissolved to create a slurry.
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering orange mixture while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Allow the sauce to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
If using optional chili flakes for a spicy kick, stir them in at this stage.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if necessary.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a topping for steamed vegetables, grilled salmon, baked tofu, or whole-grain dishes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
206 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.0 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 213 mg | 9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 47.9 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.3 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 40 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 585 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
