Are you a fan of fresh herbs? Do you love experimenting with new flavors and ingredients in your kitchen? If so, you’re in luck! Lovage (also known as Levisticum officinale) is a flavorful and versatile herb that’s just waiting to be added to your repertoire. With its sweet, celery-like taste and crunchy texture, lovable lovage is perfect for soups, salads, sauces, and more.
Whether you’re looking to add a burst of fresh flavor to your favorite dishes or create something entirely new, lovage has got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the best of what lovage has to offer – from creamy soups and savory pasta dishes to sweet treats and refreshing drinks. So grab your lovable lovage and get ready to cook up a storm!
Creamy Lovage and Potato Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the subtle sweetness of lovage adding depth to the classic potato soup. This comforting dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch lovage, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lovage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a food processor or blender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lovage Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of lovage with the creamy richness of pesto, all wrapped up with a nutty pine nut crunch. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup lovage leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine lovage leaves and pine nuts. Process until well combined and slightly chopped.
3. Add pesto and process until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Lovage Butter
Grilled Chicken with Lovage Butter Recipe
This classic combination of flavors gets a boost from the subtle sweetness and earthy undertones of lovage butter, making it a perfect summer evening dish. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy this delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons lovage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped lovage leaves.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread lovage butter evenly over each breast.
6. Serve hot, with optional lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lovage and Lemon Roasted Salmon
This recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with the earthy sweetness of lovage to create a deliciously unique roasted salmon dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh lovage leaves, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle chopped lovage leaves and lemon juice evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Lovage and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad combines the subtle flavor of lovage with the coolness of cucumber, perfect for a light and healthy meal or side dish. With only a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh lovage leaves
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lovage leaves and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and lovage leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumber-lovage mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lovage-Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with the subtle, sweet flavor of Lovage, a perennial herb native to Europe. This infused olive oil is perfect for finishing dishes like roasted vegetables, meats, or as a dip for bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh Lovage leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– Glass jar with lid
Instructions:
1. In the glass jar, combine olive oil and fresh Lovage leaves.
2. Stir gently to release the Lovage essence into the oil.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and let it infuse at room temperature for 24 hours or up to 72 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the solids.
5. Store the Lovage-infused olive oil in an airtight container.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 24-72 hours
– Shelf life: Up to 6 months at room temperature or up to 12 months refrigerated
Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Lovage-infused olive oil!
Herbed Lovage and Ricotta Tart
This elegant tart combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the subtle sweetness of lovage, a lesser-known herb that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs like parsley and chives. Perfect for a springtime brunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped lovage leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, lovage leaves, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold up sides of pastry to form a crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Lovage and Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Transform ordinary mushrooms into an extraordinary side dish with the rich flavors of lovage and garlic.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lovage leaves, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add chopped lovage and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh lovage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spring Pea and Lovage Risotto
Spring Pea and Lovage Risotto: Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful risotto dish, featuring fresh peas and lovage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spring peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons lovage leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in peas and lovage leaves during the last 2 cups of broth addition.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Lovage and Chive Compound Butter
This flavorful compound butter combines the subtle sweetness of lovage with the oniony depth of chives, creating a unique spread perfect for topping breads, rolls, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons lovage leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chives, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lovage, and chives until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Lovage and Chive Compound Butter on your favorite breads, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables. Perfect for a quick snack or as a flavorful addition to your next dinner party.
Lovage-Marinated Grilled Vegetables
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of lovage with the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables, creating a delightful and refreshing summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lovage leaves (fresh or dried)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lovage leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place mixed vegetables in a large bowl. Pour the lovage marinade over the vegetables and toss to coat.
4. Grill vegetables for 8-10 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lovage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lovage and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Experience the unique flavors of lovage and feta in this savory chicken dish. The earthy notes of lovage pair perfectly with the tangy creaminess of feta, creating a delightful surprise.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 bunches lovage leaves (about 1 cup)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, blend lovage leaves until coarsely chopped.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the lovage mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Top each breast with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Potato Salad with Lovage Dressing
Elevate your potato salad game with this comforting and flavorful recipe, featuring the subtle sweetness of lovage as a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups lovage leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, combine lovage leaves, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and parsley in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted potatoes and lovage dressing. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lovage and Dill Pickled Cucumbers
This refreshing pickling recipe combines the sweetness of cucumbers with the earthy flavor of lovage, perfectly balanced by the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for hot summer days or as a tangy condiment for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped lovage leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Rinse the cucumber mixture with cold water, then drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, lovage leaves, and dill weed. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Pack the cucumber mixture into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + refrigeration time
Lovage-Infused White Wine Sauce
Elevate your dishes with this aromatic white wine sauce infused with the subtle sweetness of lovage, a unique and underutilized herb. This recipe is perfect for accompanying fish, poultry, or pork dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons lovage leaves, chopped (fresh or dried)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped lovage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine, chicken broth, and flour. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lovage and Carrot Ginger Soup
This hearty soup combines the earthy flavor of lovage with the sweetness of carrots and the spiciness of ginger, creating a deliciously comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 stalk lovage, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped lovage and carrots in a little bit of oil until they are tender.
2. Add the grated ginger and continue cooking for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lovage and Herb Focaccia Bread
This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of lovage with a blend of fresh herbs to create a unique and flavorful focaccia bread. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped lovage leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, lovage leaves, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle or oblong shape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lovage Lemonade with Mint
This unique lemonade recipe combines the sweet and earthy flavors of lovage, a lesser-known herb, with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of mint. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 stalks of lovage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine sliced lovage and lemon juice. Let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher, discarding the lovage.
3. Add water and sugar to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Stir in chopped mint leaves.
5. Chill the lemonade for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusion time) + chilling time
Summary
Discover the versatility of lovage and elevate your cooking with these 18 flavorful recipes. From creamy soups to savory pastas, herby butters to refreshing salads, lovage adds a unique twist to classic dishes. Try making Lovage Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts, Grilled Chicken with Lovage Butter, or Spring Pea and Lovage Risotto for a taste of the Mediterranean. Or, get creative with lovage-infused olive oil, compound butters, and pickled cucumbers. Whether you’re looking to add depth to your favorite recipes or explore new flavors, these lovage recipes are sure to delight.
