Are you looking for a burst of citrusy flavor to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further! Lemons and fresh herbs are a match made in heaven when it comes to cooking, adding a bright and zesty twist to even the most mundane dishes. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that feature lemon and fresh herbs as the stars of the show.
From seafood to poultry, pork, and even veggies, these mouthwatering meals are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their cooking repertoire.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and zest. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon-garlic butter sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the bowl and toss gently to coat with sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing and flavorful grilled chicken recipe infused with the zesty tang of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 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, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Brighten up your pasta game with this creamy and zesty recipe, featuring lemon-infused ricotta cheese stuffed inside tender shells.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle tops with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner routine with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the crunch of pepper on succulent salmon, paired with a side of tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons
– 1/4 cup black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, black peppercorns, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the salmon.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, these bite-sized treats combine the brightness of lemon with the subtle sweetness of basil. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together basil, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly with marinade.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, creating a dish that’s both elegant and indulgent. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, add lemon juice and heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve the scallops with the creamy lemon sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your roasted potatoes with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary. This flavorful side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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, and rosemary until they are evenly coated.
3. Add the lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Tilapia with Spinach
Lemon Butter Tilapia with Spinach Recipe: A bright and citrusy twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines the flaky texture of tilapia with the richness of lemon butter and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and softened butter until smooth.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over the tilapia fillets.
5. Top each fillet with minced garlic and a handful of fresh spinach leaves.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flaky.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Lemon Dill Orzo Salad
A bright and refreshing summer salad, perfect for hot days when you need a flavorful pick-me-up. This Lemon Dill Orzo Salad combines the creamy texture of orzo with the tangy zip of lemon and the freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Add cooked orzo, chopped dill, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this bright and citrusy roasted chicken recipe, infused with the subtle flavor of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 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, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme leaves, and garlic powder.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with these tender and flavorful steak bites smothered in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season steak cubes with salt and pepper.
4. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Elevate your broccoli game with this bright and citrusy take on roasted vegetables. This simple recipe yields a deliciously flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Spread the broccoli mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-23 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Pork Chops
Brighten up your grilling game with this refreshing twist on classic pork chops! A zesty lemon herb marinade adds a burst of citrusy flavor to tender and juicy pork.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata
This classic Italian dish gets a bright and tangy twist with the addition of lemon and capers. Thinly sliced chicken breasts are dredged in flour, sautéed to perfection, and finished with a zesty sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and flour.
2. Sauté chicken in butter until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
4. Add lemon juice and capers to pan; simmer for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to pan and spoon sauce over the top.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of risotto with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions until slightly tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cook for an additional minute.
5. Gradually add warmed broth to the risotto, stirring constantly. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Brighten up your taco Tuesday with this zesty and flavorful recipe! Succulent shrimp are marinated in a mixture of lemon zest, black pepper, and spices before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and black pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Butter Herb Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this bright and citrusy twist on a classic roasted turkey. A zesty lemon butter sauce, infused with fresh herbs, adds a burst of flavor to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 20-25 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brighten up your plate with this flavorful side dish! A squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of garlic elevate the humble Brussels sprout to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Grilled Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy salmon dish, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped basil and lemon juice.
3. Brush both sides of salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the basil-lemon mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Lemon Herb Couscous with Feta
This refreshing couscous recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, featuring the bright flavors of lemon, herbs, and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the couscous to a serving dish and top with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Brighten up your dinner routine with these 20 zesty recipes that combine the tanginess of lemon with the freshness of herbs! From seafood to poultry, and even veggies, this collection has got you covered. Discover mouthwatering dishes like Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, and Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops. Add a squeeze of citrus and a sprinkle of herbs to elevate your cooking game and impress your family and friends. Get ready for a flavorful culinary adventure!
