The brightness and warmth of lemons are a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of citrus flavor to your pasta dishes, elevate your seafood game with succulent shrimp or salmon, or create a show-stopping main course with chicken or pork chops, lemon is the perfect ingredient to have up your sleeve.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 zesty lemon recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From classic comfort foods like pasta and risotto, to seafood staples like grilled shrimp and scallops, to main courses that shine with roasted chicken and pork chops, these recipes showcase the versatility and depth of flavor that only lemons can bring.
So grab your apron, preheat your oven or grill, and get ready to add a splash of sunshine to your dinner table!
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of butter, the zing of lemon, and the succulence of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet, then stir in lemon juice.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon-garlic sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the pasta mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and moist chicken dish, perfect for a summer evening. The combination of lemon zest, herbs, and garlic creates a bright and citrusy taste experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This creamy, citrusy take on traditional stuffed shells is sure to become a new favorite. The combination of lemon zest and ricotta cheese adds a bright and tangy flavor that complements the rich pasta perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon
In this recipe, brighten up your dinner plate with a flavorful and moist salmon dish, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and garlic. This one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and cooks in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Arrange the salmon fillets in the skillet, leaving some space between each.
5. Pour the lemon juice evenly over the salmon.
6. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lemon Butter Scallops with Asparagus
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic seafood dish, this recipe combines succulent scallops with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a zesty lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 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. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Meanwhile, season scallops with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over scallops and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Pork Chops
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing twist on classic pork chops. Zesty lemon and peppery flavors meld together for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, 1 inch thick
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Brush both sides of pork chops with the lemon mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill pork chops for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this creamy and zesty dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish
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 rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until coated in oil and slightly toasted.
4. If using wine, add and cook until absorbed, stirring frequently.
5. Add 1/2 cup broth and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for absorption, about 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy and tender.
6. Stir in lemon juice, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these vibrant and flavorful shrimp skewers, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil will leave you wanting more.
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 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Lemon Dill Baked Cod
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Dill Baked Cod recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup 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. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring the perfect balance of citrusy lemon and herbaceous rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs ribeye or strip loin steaks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 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 garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Place steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each steak with a pat of garlic butter, spreading evenly.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over the garlic butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until steaks reach desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Feta
This vibrant side dish is perfect for springtime gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of lemon-infused orzo, wilted spinach, and crumbly feta cheese is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon 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
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Add cooked orzo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful potatoes infused with the zesty aroma of lemon and herbs!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Green Beans
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and refreshing side dish that combines the sweetness of lemons, richness of butter, and pungency of garlic. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the green beans to the skillet in batches if necessary, ensuring they’re not crowded.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices or chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata
A classic Italian dish gets a bright twist with the addition of lemon and capers. This recipe is 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 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice and capers to the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Serve chicken breasts with sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this bright and citrusy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This flavorful dish brings together the zesty warmth of lemon and the subtle herbal notes of thyme to create a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, etc.)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add your favorite vegetables to the bowl, tossing to coat with the citrusy mixture.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and butter to create a flavorful and moist tilapia dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place tilapia fillets on the baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and butter until well combined.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the tilapia fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing summer pasta dish. Combining the flavors of lemon, garlic, and basil, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb. cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
– 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 skillet, heat the pesto over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Honey Glazed Salmon
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional glazed salmon, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of lemon to create a flavorful and moist dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 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 lemon juice, honey, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish. Brush the lemon-honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic butter and the earthiness of mushrooms, making for a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 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 mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with mushroom mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add some zing to your meals with these 20 refreshing lemon recipes! From savory main courses like Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon, to flavorful sides like Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto and Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the sweet treats – try pairing a squeeze of fresh lemon juice with some Honey Glazed Salmon or Orzo with Spinach and Feta. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, poultry, pork, or vegetarian options, these zesty recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
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