When it comes to brightening up a dish, there’s nothing quite like the zesty flavor combination of lemon and thyme. The citrusy sweetness of lemon pairs perfectly with the earthy, herbaceous taste of thyme, creating a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these 20 zesty lemon thyme recipes have got you covered.
From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites, this collection of recipes showcases the versatility and charm of the lemon-thyme combination. Think roasted chicken with a tangy lemon-thyme crust, succulent shrimp smothered in garlic-lemon butter, and decadent cookies infused with the sweet and savory flavors of lemon thyme. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to bring a burst of sunshine into your kitchen.
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing twist on roasted chicken, infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, sliced lemons, and fresh thyme leaves.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-thyme mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Garlic Lemon Thyme Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of thyme, and the richness of garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive date night meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Thyme Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with the bright and herbaceous flavors of lemon and thyme infused into a rich olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced thinly
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil and sliced lemon.
2. Add the fresh thyme sprigs to the jar, making sure they are fully submerged in the oil.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks or up to 6 months to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Every few days, gently shake the jar to help the infusion process.
5. After the desired infusion time, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids and any sediment that forms at the bottom of the jar.
6. Taste and adjust with salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-6 months (depending on desired strength of flavor)
Honey Lemon Thyme Glazed Carrots
Elevate your carrot game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring the brightness of lemon, the warmth of honey, and the subtle earthiness of thyme. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these glazed carrots are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place carrots on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and thyme leaves.
5. Drizzle the glaze over the carrots, then toss to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Parmesan Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the bright flavors of lemon and thyme with the richness of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and thyme; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
4. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of broth; stir until absorbed. Repeat process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Thyme Sauce
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of grilled salmon with the brightness of lemon and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush the lemon thyme sauce all over the salmon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of thyme are perfect for a sunny day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon juice and thyme; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms. Season with salt to taste.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Potatoes
Brighten up your meal with the warm, citrusy flavor of these roasted potatoes. A simple yet impressive side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and thyme until they’re evenly coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your mushroom game with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the zesty power of lemon, the subtlety of thyme, and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in the chopped thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mushroom mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Gin Fizz Cocktail
Brighten up your day with this refreshing twist on the classic gin fizz. The combination of lemon, thyme, and ginger beer creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz ginger beer
– 1/4 tsp dried thyme
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme (about 1/4 tsp) and muddle gently.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
6. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
7. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Lemon Thyme Marinated Olives
Brighten up your snacks with this refreshing twist on classic marinated olives. This zesty and aromatic recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted green olives
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme leaves, and garlic.
2. Add the olives and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply marinate and serve.
Lemon Thyme and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Lemon Thyme and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Bright Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon and the subtle earthiness of thyme. The result is a refreshing take on traditional stuffed shells that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme Grilled Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer grilling game with this refreshing twist on classic corn on the cob. The combination of bright lemon zest, fragrant thyme, and smoky grill marks will transport you to a sunny day filled with warmth and joy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, olive oil, and thyme sprigs.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from grill and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Honey Glazed Pork Chops
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing twist on classic pork chops. A zesty lemon glaze, infused with the warmth of thyme and honey, elevates these tender cuts to a new level.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, and thyme.
3. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Scented Couscous
This recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, adding a burst of citrusy freshness to your meals. Lemon thyme scented couscous is an easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the couscous. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5-7 minutes.
2. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in lemon juice, olive oil, and dried thyme.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Goat Cheese Tart
This tart combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the brightness of lemon and the subtle earthiness of thyme, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, lemon zest, and thyme leaves.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the egg wash over the crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful twist on a classic roasted vegetable dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from the oven and toss with lemon juice and thyme.
5. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the lemon has slightly thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Garlic Roasted Leg of Lamb
Impress your guests with this flavorful and aromatic roasted leg of lamb, infused with the brightness of lemon, the subtlety of thyme, and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, thyme leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1.5-pound leg of lamb.
Lemon Thyme Infused Simple Syrup
Lemon Thyme Infused Simple Syrup Recipe
Elevate your beverages with a refreshing and flavorful lemon thyme infused simple syrup. This sweet and tangy mixture is perfect for adding a twist to iced teas, sparkling waters, or even cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon citric acid powder (for a more pronounced citrus flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add lemon juice, chopped thyme leaves, and citric acid powder (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. Let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
5. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Berry Summer Salad
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing salad, bursting with the flavors of lemon, thyme, and mixed berries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, and blueberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the brightness of lemon and the subtle earthiness of thyme. From savory dishes like roasted chicken, shrimp, and lamb, to sweet treats like cookies and tart, there’s something for every occasion. Impress your friends with a refreshing cocktail or add a burst of flavor to your meals with infused oils and syrups. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to spice up your daily routine, these zesty lemon thyme recipes are sure to become new favorites.
