Spring has sprung, and with it comes a flood of fresh flavors to brighten up our plates. One of the most iconic signs of warmer weather is the arrival of Meyer lemons – those sweet and tangy citrus fruits that add a burst of sunshine to any dish. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and zesty charm of Meyer lemons. From sweet treats like Meyer Lemon Blueberry Scones and Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, to savory delights like Honey Glazed Meyer Lemon Chicken and Grilled Shrimp with Meyer Lemon Herb Butter, these recipes will get you in the mood for spring.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some new ideas to try out, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s dive into the world of Meyer lemons!
Meyer Lemon Blueberry Scones
These scones combine the brightness of Meyer lemons with the sweetness of blueberries, making them a perfect breakfast or brunch treat. With a hint of citrus and a burst of berry flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and Meyer lemon juice.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until dough forms. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pat dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into 8-10 wedges.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Honey Glazed Meyer Lemon Chicken
Sweet and tangy, this Honey Glazed Meyer Lemon Chicken is a refreshing twist on traditional chicken dishes. With the brightness of Meyer lemons and the richness of honey, this recipe is perfect for springtime or anytime you want to add some sunshine to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Meyer lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey-lemon glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meyer Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are infused with the sweet-tart flavor of Meyer lemons and the creaminess of ricotta cheese, making them a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, ricotta cheese, eggs, and Meyer lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Roasted Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Aioli
Roasted Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Aioli Recipe
This elegant side dish combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the bright, citrusy flavor of Meyer lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine Meyer lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Serve roasted asparagus with Meyer lemon aioli spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful Meyer lemon olive oil cake, perfect for a springtime dessert or afternoon snack. The combination of sweet Meyer lemons and rich olive oil creates a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 teaspoons grated Meyer lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, olive oil, Meyer lemon zest, and juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Meyer Lemon Herb Butter
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic shrimp dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of grilled shrimp with the tanginess of Meyer lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Meyer lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Add softened butter to the bowl and stir until well combined.
4. Brush both sides of shrimp with the Meyer lemon herb butter mixture.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Meyer Lemon and Thyme Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your cookie jar with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweet-tart flavor of Meyer lemons and the subtle aroma of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it forms a crumbly dough.
4. Stir in Meyer lemon juice and thyme.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
6. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Meyer Lemon Pasta with Garlic and Basil
Brighten up your dinner plate with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, bursting with the sweet-tart essence of Meyer lemons. This creamy sauce is infused with aromatic garlic and fragrant basil, making it a perfect springtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Meyer lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in Meyer lemon juice, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Meyer Lemon Curd Tart with Almond Crust
This tart combines the sweetness of Meyer lemons with the crunch of an almond crust, perfect for a springtime dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the curd:
– 3 large Meyer lemons, juiced (about 1/2 cup)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by grinding almonds with sugar and salt in a food processor until finely ground. Add melted butter and pulse until combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together Meyer lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and softened butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until curd thickens (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour into prepared crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Meyer Lemon Beurre Blanc
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy dish, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh chervil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat dry the scallops with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet and swirl until melted.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium. Whisk together lemon juice, white wine, orange juice, and mustard.
7. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve the seared scallops with the Meyer lemon beurre blanc spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Meyer Lemon and Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with the bright citrus flavor of Meyer lemons and the herbaceousness of rosemary. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon juice
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, Meyer lemon juice, and rosemary until they’re evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Meyer Lemonade with Mint
Brighten up your summer days with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade. The sweetness of fresh Meyer lemons pairs perfectly with the cooling essence of mint, making for a revitalizing drink that’s perfect for hot weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Muddle the fresh mint leaves in a separate bowl with a spoon or your hands to release their oils and flavor.
4. Add the muddled mint to the lemonade mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to drink as soon as you’ve mixed all the ingredients together.
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these citrusy treats, infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of Meyer lemons and topped with a crunchy poppy seed crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 Meyer lemons, zested and juiced (about 1 tablespoon zest and 2 tablespoons juice)
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, Meyer lemon zest, and juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in poppy seeds.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle tops with additional poppy seeds if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Citrusy Meyer Lemon Avocado Toast
Brighten up your morning with this refreshing twist on classic avocado toast. The combination of creamy avocado, tangy Meyer lemon juice, and crunchy whole grain bread is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– Freshly chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Drizzle the Meyer lemon juice over the avocado, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the toast for added richness.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Meyer Lemon and Ginger Glazed Salmon
A flavorful and aromatic salmon dish that combines the brightness of Meyer lemons with the warmth of ginger, resulting in a sweet and savory glaze that elevates this classic seafood recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine Meyer lemon juice, honey, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let glaze simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Brush the glaze all over the salmon fillets, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whipped Feta Dip with Meyer Lemon and Dill
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing take on classic feta dip, infused with the bright flavors of Meyer lemon and dill. Perfect for a light lunch or as a topping for crackers or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz feta cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the feta cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sour cream and continue whipping until well combined.
3. Stir in the Meyer lemon juice and chopped dill.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Serve chilled.
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut Crust
Brighten up your dessert game with these tangy and sweet Meyer lemon bars featuring a nutty coconut crust. The combination of citrusy Meyer lemons, rich buttery filling, and crunchy coconut topping is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Meyer lemon juice, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling over crust and bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Halloumi with Meyer Lemon Drizzle
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on traditional halloumi. The sweet and tangy Meyer lemon drizzle perfectly balances the savory cheese’s smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the halloumi with olive oil and season with salt.
3. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and melted.
4. Meanwhile, mix Meyer lemon juice and honey in a small bowl.
5. Once the cheese is cooked, place it on a serving plate and drizzle with the Meyer lemon mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Meyer Lemon and Lavender Ice Cream
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing Meyer lemon and lavender ice cream recipe! The tangy citrus flavor of Meyer lemons pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of lavender, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large egg yolks
– Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in Meyer lemon zest and lavender buds. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (plus chilling time)
Baked Cod with Meyer Lemon and Capers
This recipe combines the flaky texture of cod with the citrusy zing of Meyer lemons and the salty crunch of capers, all in a simple and flavorful baked dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 Meyer lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Squeeze Meyer lemon juice evenly over the cod.
6. Top each fillet with capers.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Spring has sprung, and it’s time to brighten up your plate with the sweet and tangy flavors of Meyer lemons! In this collection of 20 zesty recipes, we’re sharing our favorite ways to use these mini citrus fruits. From sweet treats like Meyer Lemon Blueberry Scones and Poppy Seed Muffins to savory dishes like Honey Glazed Chicken and Grilled Shrimp with Herb Butter, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at making a refreshing glass of Meyer Lemonade or whipping up a batch of Creamy Pasta with Garlic and Basil. And don’t forget the sweet treats – like Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut Crust and Lavender Ice Cream! These recipes are sure to bring a burst of sunshine to your table this spring.
