Heart-Healthy Zesty Orange Sauce

Brighten your meals with this Heart-Healthy Zesty Orange Sauce, a tangy and versatile condiment that's as nutritious as it is flavorful. Made with fresh orange juice and zest, low-sodium vegetable broth, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, this sauce is naturally sweetened and bursting with citrusy goodness. Ground ginger and a hint of apple cider vinegar add a subtle warmth and depth, while optional chili flakes provide a gentle kick for spice lovers. Thickened to perfection with a cornstarch slurry, this vibrant sauce is quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes. Perfect as a topping for steamed veggies, grilled salmon, baked tofu, or whole-grain dishes, it’s a delightful way to enhance your meals while staying heart-healthy. Store any leftovers easily, so you can enjoy its zesty charm all week long!

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 4

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

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

Whisk the mixture together and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until fully dissolved to create a slurry.

Step 4

Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering orange mixture while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 5

Allow the sauce to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6

If using optional chili flakes for a spicy kick, stir them in at this stage.

Step 7

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if necessary.

Step 8

Serve warm or at room temperature as a topping for steamed vegetables, grilled salmon, baked tofu, or whole-grain dishes.

Step 9

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	433 grams (433.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	206

Total Fat 1.00g	1%
Saturated Fat 0.00g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 213mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate 47.90g	17%
Dietary Fiber 1.40g	5%
Total Sugars 38.30g
Protein 2.30g	5%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 41mg	3%
Iron 1mg	3%
Potassium 585mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 4.3%

Protein: 4.4%

Carbs: 91.3%