Are you looking for a burst of citrus flavor to brighten up your dinner routine? Look no further! Lemons are a classic addition to many dishes, and when paired with fresh herbs, they create a truly mouthwatering combination. From seafood to poultry to pasta and more, we’ve rounded up 20 zesty dinner recipes that showcase the power of lemon and herbs.
In this article, you’ll find inspiration for everything from quick weeknight meals to special occasion feasts. Our collection includes classic dishes with a twist, like Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, as well as some innovative creations, such as Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells and Lemon Pepper Pork Chops.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So grab your lemons and herbs, and get ready to add a burst of flavor to your dinner plate!
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this zesty and flavorful shrimp pasta dish, featuring succulent shrimp, garlicky butter, and a burst of citrus from fresh lemon.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with butter-lemon sauce until well coated.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with pasta to serve.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your summer barbecues with this refreshing Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken recipe. The combination of juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs creates a dish that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 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 the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the richness of butter, the brightness of lemon, and the tender taste of salmon. Serve with a side of crisp asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each fillet with the lemon butter mixture, dividing it evenly among the four pieces of fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve salmon with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Summary: This creamy and tangy pasta dish is a twist on traditional stuffed shells, featuring lemon zest and ricotta cheese for an added burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 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
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
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, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with the zesty flavor of lemon and the warmth of pepper. This simple recipe yields tender, juicy chops with a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp black pepper, freshly ground
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle salt to taste on both sides of the chops.
5. Place the chops in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon-pepper mixture.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Feta
This vibrant side dish is perfect for springtime gatherings or as a simple accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats. The combination of tender orzo, wilted spinach, and tangy feta cheese, all infused with the brightness of lemon, creates a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add spinach; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir lemon juice into cooked orzo. Add cooked spinach mixture; toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this bright and citrusy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the pungency of garlic and the tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the potato mixture and toss again to combine.
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 golden brown and tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer barbecues with this refreshing twist on traditional shrimp skewers, featuring the bright flavors of lemon and basil. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and aromatic roasted chicken recipe, infused with the warmth of thyme and the brightness of lemon. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon mixture all over the bird.
4. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Butter Scallops with Zucchini Noodles
Lemon Butter Scallops with Zucchini Noodles: A Bright and Citrusy Twist on a Classic Dish
This recipe combines the richness of scallops with the brightness of lemon butter and the simplicity of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner!
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer, until slightly tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Stir until smooth.
4. Combine the zucchini noodles with the lemon butter sauce in the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. Serve the scallops atop the zucchini noodles, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Dill Baked Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy lemon dill baked cod recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with lemon juice, garlic, and dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops
A bright and herby twist on traditional lamb chops, this recipe combines the tanginess of lemon with the earthy flavor of rosemary for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the lamb chops with the lemon-rosemary mixture.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata
This Italian-inspired dish brings together the flavors of lemon, capers, and garlic to create a light and refreshing chicken piccata. Pan-seared chicken breasts are topped with a zesty lemon-caper sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Pan-fry chicken in butter until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat; top each breast with lemon juice, garlic, and capers.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto
Lemon Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto: A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with butter and mix with mushroom mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this bright and citrusy roasted turkey breast, infused with the warmth of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place the turkey breast on a roasting pan lined with parchment paper. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over the breast, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Lemon Parmesan Crusted Tilapia: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Fish Dish!
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the lemon mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Roll the coated fillets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Sage Brown Butter Gnocchi
This recipe combines the richness of brown butter with the brightness of lemon zest and the earthy sweetness of sage, all wrapped up in pillowy gnocchi. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the saucepan and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ginger Glazed Salmon
Brighten up your mealtime with this citrusy and flavorful recipe! This Lemon Ginger Glazed Salmon is a perfect combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Tarragon Roasted Vegetables
Brighten up your table with this flavorful and vibrant side dish! This recipe combines the zest of lemon, the subtle tang of tarragon, and the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs mixed vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red bell peppers)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss vegetables with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped tarragon.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the vegetables.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans
This flavorful dish combines the brightness of lemon and lime with the earthiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a bed of aromatic cilantro-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Add the water and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
8. Stir in lemon juice, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
9. Fluff with fork and fold in cooked black beans. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your dinner routine with these 20 zesty recipes featuring lemon and herbs! From seafood to poultry, and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Try Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, or Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus for a flavorful start. Or go all out with Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells or Lemon Parmesan Crusted Tilapia. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these lemony delights are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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