Ah, lemon – the citrus superhero that adds a burst of sunshine to any dish. Whether you’re looking for a bright and zesty twist on a classic recipe or a refreshing pick-me-up drink, lemons are the perfect addition. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 favorite fresh lemon recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling invigorated.
From sweet treats like Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins and Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, to savory dishes like Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus and Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, we’ve got a little something for everyone. And don’t even get us started on the drinks – our Lemon Mint Cucumber Water is the perfect refresher for hot summer days.
So grab your lemons and let’s dive in!
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving enough room for the shrimp to cook evenly.
5. Arrange the shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fresh Lemon Blueberry Scones
Fresh Lemon Blueberry Scones Recipe
Brighten up your morning with these sweet and tangy scones, bursting with the flavors of fresh lemon and blueberries.
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, beaten
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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 cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and lemon juice. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create shapes.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each scone.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this refreshing recipe that combines the zesty flavors of lemon, herbs, and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Recipe: Brighten up your breakfast with these fluffy, citrusy pancakes that combine the richness of ricotta cheese with the zesty flavor of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped basil, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon-basil mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and chill before serving.
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are infused with the sweetness of lemon zest and the crunch of poppy seeds, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 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, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
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.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Honey Glazed Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this sweet and tangy salmon recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Brighten up your plate with this flavorful and healthy side dish. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic for a delicious and easy-to-make accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until the asparagus is evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the asparagus mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Coconut Energy Balls
Revitalize your day with these bite-sized energy balls that combine the bright flavors of lemon and coconut. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and coconut flakes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add lemon juice and salt to the peanut butter mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, about 12-15 total.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These energy balls are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Lemon Dill Potato Salad
Brighten up your picnic or backyard gathering with this refreshing twist on classic potato salad. A tangy and aromatic blend of juicy potatoes, zesty lemon juice, and fragrant dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chopped dill, cooled potatoes, and diced eggs (if using) to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: A refreshing twist on classic cheesecake bars, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of raspberries with the tanginess of lemon, all wrapped up in a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to form crust. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in raspberries and lemon juice.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Thyme Grilled Pork Chops
Brighten up your summer grilling with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of lemons with the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Grill the pork chops for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Lemon Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your morning routine with this refreshing twist on classic avocado toast. The tangy zip of lemon and spicy kick from chili flakes will leave you feeling revitalized and ready to take on the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mashed avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Spread the avocado mixture evenly onto the toasted bread.
4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Mint Cucumber Water
Stay hydrated with this light and revitalizing drink, perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up. This flavorful water combines the sweetness of lemon, the cooling sensation of mint, and the crispness of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 liter water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, add the sliced cucumber.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves on top of the cucumber.
3. Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons over the mint and cucumber.
4. Add the liter of water to the pitcher.
5. Stir well to combine.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in no time, just add all the ingredients to a pitcher and serve chilled.
Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful lemon olive oil cake, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared 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 pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon, the richness of garlic butter, and a hint of parsley for added freshness. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice and parsley to the butter mixture; stir to combine.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop.
6. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until scallops are opaque and flaky.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Strawberry Shortcake
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing twist on classic shortcake, combining sweet strawberries and tangy lemon in a simple yet impressive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add heavy cream, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
4. Place shortcake squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Allow shortcakes to cool completely before serving with sliced strawberries, lemon zest, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Ginger Turmeric Tea
This refreshing tea blend combines the invigorating properties of ginger and turmeric with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon. Perfect for a calming evening sip or a morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 cup boiling water
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Honey or sweetener (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the turmeric and ginger; let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the lemon zest and juice; stir well to combine.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired with honey or your preferred sweetener.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Brighten up your meal with this tangy and savory lemon parmesan roasted broccoli recipe. With a burst of citrus flavor and the richness of parmesan cheese, this side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and toss with lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Chia Seed Pudding
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and healthy pudding recipe, infused with the zesty flavor of lemon and the nutty goodness of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together almond milk, chia seeds, and salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add lemon juice and honey to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of chia seeds and a slice of lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Enjoy your delightful Lemon Chia Seed Pudding!
Summary
Get ready to zest up your meals with these 20 refreshing lemon recipes! From savory dishes like Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp and Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, to sweet treats like Fresh Lemon Blueberry Scones and Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find healthy options like Lemon Mint Cucumber Water and Lemon Chia Seed Pudding, as well as indulgent desserts like Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins and Lemon Strawberry Shortcake. Whether you’re in the mood for a bright and citrusy breakfast or a tangy and satisfying dinner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your lemon craving!
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