As the temperatures rise and summer arrives, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing glass of citrusy delight. Enter calamansi, the Filipino favorite that’s equal parts lime, lemon, and orange. With its zesty flavor and versatility in cooking, calamansi is the perfect addition to your summer repertoire. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering calamansi recipes that will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.
From classic cocktails like Calamansi Limeade with Mint to sweet treats like Calamansi Coconut Bars, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of savory dishes or sweet indulgences, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues.
Calamansi Limeade with Mint
This sweet and tangy drink combines the flavors of calamansi (Philippine lime), fresh mint, and a hint of sugar to create a unique and revitalizing beverage perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups calamansi juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together calamansi and lime juices.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the water and stir to combine.
4. Muddle in the chopped mint leaves with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavor.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the Calamansi Limeade over ice and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Calamansi Glazed Chicken Wings
Add a twist of tropical flavor to your snack game with this easy and addictive recipe! Calamansi, also known as Filipino lime, brings a burst of citrusy freshness to the classic chicken wing.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and brush with vegetable oil.
5. Arrange chicken wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Increase oven temperature to broil (high) and glaze with remaining marinade. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Calamansi and Honey Salad Dressing
Add a burst of tropical flavor to your salads with this refreshing and easy-to-make dressing. Combining the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of calamansi, this recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their greens.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed calamansi juice (or substitute with a mixture of lemon and lime juice)
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Calamansi Coconut Bars
These chewy bars combine the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of calamansi, a Filipino citrus fruit. A perfect treat for anyone looking to add a touch of tropical flavor to their day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon juice)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and shredded coconut.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and calamansi juice until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Calamansi Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe combines the sweetness of calamansi (Filipino lime) with the savory flavors of garlic and butter to create a mouthwatering shrimp dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and calamansi juice until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic-butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Calamansi Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust
This refreshing dessert combines the sweet and tangy flavors of calamansi (Filipino lime) with a classic graham cracker crust, creating a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (about 4-5 limes)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, calamansi juice, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Calamansi Marinated Pork Chops
A flavorful twist on traditional pork chops, this recipe combines the brightness of calamansi with the richness of marinated meat.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with a mixture of equal parts lime and lemon juice)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove pork chops from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Calamansi Sorbet with Basil Infusion
Experience the bright and tangy flavors of Southeast Asia with this refreshing sorbet infused with sweet basil. This unique dessert combines the citrusy zing of calamansi (also known as Philippine lime) with the subtle herbal notes of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup calamansi juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine calamansi juice, sugar, and water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the basil leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Calamansi Teriyaki Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of calamansi (Filipino lime) with the richness of teriyaki sauce, creating a unique and delicious glaze for salmon fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup calamansi juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the calamansi-teriyaki glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Drizzle sesame oil over the salmon and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using).
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Calamansi Avocado Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy sweetness of calamansi, perfect for hot summer days or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed calamansi juice (or substitute with lime juice)
– 1 banana, sliced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine avocado, calamansi juice, and banana.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add Greek yogurt and honey; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe, perfect for a quick and easy treat.
Calamansi and Ginger Iced Tea
This revitalizing tea combines the tangy sweetness of calamansi (Filipino lime) with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh calamansi juice
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tea bag (black or green)
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine water and sliced ginger. Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the tea into a separate container, discarding the ginger.
3. Add calamansi juice and tea bag (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve over ice and sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Calamansi Mango Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the sweetness of mango with the tartness of calamansi (Philippine lime), perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, calamansi juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Calamansi Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe adds a tangy twist to traditional roasted Brussels sprouts by incorporating the sweet and sour flavors of calamansi, also known as Filipino citrus. The result is a deliciously balanced side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with a combination of lime and orange juice)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, calamansi juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Calamansi Honey Glazed Donuts
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and tangy Calamansi Honey Glazed Donuts!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or substitute with a combination of lime and orange juices)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Gradually add calamansi juice and honey, whisking until smooth.
5. Pipe the dough into donut shapes using a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total (4-5 minutes per batch)
Calamansi Seafood Ceviche
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional ceviche, this Calamansi Seafood Ceviche combines the brightness of calamansi citrus with succulent seafood and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, fish), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine seafood pieces, calamansi juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the seafood to “cook” in the citrus juices.
3. Just before serving, stir in olive oil and season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Calamansi Basil Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the brightness of calamansi (Filipino lime) with the sweetness of basil, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 cup calamansi juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Add cooked pasta, basil, salt, and pepper; toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time)
Calamansi Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with a burst of citrus flavor by infusing olive oil with calamansi, a small Philippine citrus fruit. This simple recipe yields a unique and aromatic condiment perfect for salads, marinades, or as a finishing touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon juice)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil and calamansi juice.
2. Add the salt and stir gently to combine.
3. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After 24 hours, strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 24 hours
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
Calamansi Spiced Grilled Corn
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilled corn with this simple and aromatic recipe. Calamansi, also known as Filipino lime, adds a unique twist to the classic summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together calamansi juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and smoked paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the corn ears.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Brush melted butter onto the grilled corn during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Calamansi Yogurt Parfait
Combine the tanginess of calamansi with the creaminess of yogurt and the crunch of granola for a unique and delicious dessert or snack. This parfait is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 calamansi (or 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed calamansi juice)
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt and calamansi until well combined.
2. Layer the yogurt mixture, granola, and mixed berries in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Drizzle with honey and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe.
Enjoy your refreshing Calamansi Yogurt Parfait!
Calamansi Chili Garlic Noodles
This recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of calamansi (Filipino lime) with the spicy kick of chili flakes and the pungency of garlic to create a uniquely flavorful noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles of your choice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon)
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add calamansi juice, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Add cooked noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until well coated with the sauce.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat with these 20 refreshing calamansi recipes perfect for summer! From classic drinks like Calamansi Limeade with Mint to sweet treats like Calamansi Coconut Bars, and savory dishes like Calamansi Garlic Butter Shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Try unique twists on old favorites like Calamansi Glazed Chicken Wings or get your green on with Calamansi and Honey Salad Dressing. Whatever the occasion, these calamansi recipes are sure to bring a burst of citrusy flavor to your summer.