Lemons and thyme – what a match made in heaven! The brightness of citrusy lemons paired with the earthiness of thyme creates a flavor combination that’s simply divine. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer salad or a savory main course, these 20 zesty lemon thyme recipes have got you covered.
From classic comfort foods like roasted chicken and mashed potatoes, to seafood and pasta dishes that pack a punch, this collection has something for every occasion. And let’s not forget the sweet treats – a lemon thyme ice cream or shortbread cookies are the perfect way to cap off a meal. So go ahead, get creative with these citrusy and herbaceous flavors, and add a burst of sunshine to your culinary repertoire.
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this vibrant and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of lemon zest, thyme, and garlic creates a flavorful profile that’s both tangy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 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, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, butter, garlic, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Garlic Lemon Thyme Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the richness of butter, the brightness of lemon, and the warmth of thyme with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Thyme Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this bright and citrusy infused olive oil, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to salads, pasta dishes, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice)
– Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, thyme leaves, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the thyme is fragrant and the lemon has infused into the oil.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
5. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Honey Lemon Thyme Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the brightness of lemon, the warmth of thyme, and a hint of honey. Perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped thyme over the carrots and season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread the glazed carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Add a burst of citrus and herbal flavor to your mashed potatoes with this simple recipe. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Grilled Lemon Thyme Salmon
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your salmon with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, grilled lemon thyme salmon is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Sprinkle thyme leaves over the salmon, dividing them equally among the four fillets.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your baking with these sweet and savory Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies. A perfect combination of citrusy lemon zest and fragrant thyme, these cookies are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon juice, zest, and thyme; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Rosemary Focaccia
Savor the flavors of Italy with this refreshing twist on classic focaccia, infused with the brightness of lemon zest, the earthiness of thyme, and the piney essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Dimple the surface with your fingers.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Thyme Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the bright flavors of lemon and thyme with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. A classic Italian dish gets a refreshing twist in this recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add thyme sprigs and lemon juice; stir to combine.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, until rice is creamy and cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Potatoes
Lemon Thyme Roasted Potatoes: A Bright and Flavorsome Side Dish
Elevate your meal with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 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
– 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, lemon juice, and thyme until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the potato mixture 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, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a bright and citrusy twist, perfectly balanced by the earthiness of thyme and the nutty richness of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Place pork chops on a plate or tray, and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of each chop.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over both sides of each chop.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Lemon Thyme Ice Cream
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing lemon thyme ice cream recipe, perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until sugar is dissolved.
2. Stir in lemon juice and thyme leaves.
3. Cover and refrigerate mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time) + 15-20 minutes (churning time)
Lemon Thyme and Goat Cheese Tart
This refreshing tart combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of thyme and the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime gathering or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the lemon mixture over the goat cheese, then sprinkle chopped thyme on top.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with a little water and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Thyme Grilled Vegetables
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the subtle hint of thyme. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or as a main course, these grilled vegetables are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon mixture.
4. Sprinkle thyme sprigs over the vegetables and toss again.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Thyme and Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Lemon Thyme and Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon, the earthy undertones of thyme, and a hint of savory garlic butter. The result is a deliciously flavored side dish perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dried thyme until well combined.
3. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure to get some on the cob as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill or cook the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Thyme Lemonade
This zesty lemonade infused with the subtle flavor of thyme is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique twist at your next backyard gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this refreshing drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Add the fresh thyme leaves to the pitcher and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Strain the lemonade into individual glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Stir gently and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-serve drink.
Lemon Thyme and Herb Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this bright and citrusy twist on the classic roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 lemons, quartered
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon quarters, thyme sprigs, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Lemon Thyme Panna Cotta
This creamy panna cotta infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtle earthiness of thyme is perfect for warm weather. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and thyme. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl to remove the thyme leaves.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Lemon Thyme and White Wine Sauce for Pasta
This bright and citrusy sauce is perfect for springtime pasta dishes, pairing the warmth of thyme with the zest of lemon. With its light and refreshing flavor profile, it’s an ideal accompaniment to your favorite pasta shapes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in chopped thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the warm sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Thyme Sorbet
This sorbet combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the subtle sweetness of thyme, perfect for a light and revitalizing dessert. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create this delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the water and thyme leaves to the mixture, stirring until the thyme is evenly distributed.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once the sorbet has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Summary
Experience the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon combined with the subtle earthiness of thyme in these 20 zesty recipes. From savory dishes like Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken and Garlic Lemon Thyme Butter Shrimp to sweet treats like Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies and Lemon Thyme Ice Cream, there’s something for every occasion. Try infusing olive oil or making a glaze for carrots with this dynamic duo. Whether you’re grilling salmon or roasting potatoes, these recipes will add a burst of flavor to your meals.
