Are you tired of using the same old herbs in your cooking? Look no further! Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, adds a bright and citrusy flavor to any dish. Whether you’re looking to cool down on a hot summer day or warm up on a chilly winter evening, lemon balm is the perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. From refreshing drinks to savory meals, we’ve rounded up 18 delicious lemon balm recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from classic lemon balm tea to innovative desserts and cocktails. You might be surprised at just how versatile this herb is! So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the citrusy goodness of lemon balm inspire your next meal.
Lemon Balm Iced Tea with Honey
This soothing herbal tea combines the subtle flavor of lemon balm with the sweetness of honey, perfect for a warm day or as a calming pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm leaves
– 1 quart water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and remove from heat.
2. Add the dried lemon balm leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or jug to remove the lemon balm leaves.
4. Add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 1 quart (approximately 4 cups)
Lemon Balm and Mint Infused Water
Stay hydrated and refreshed with this simple and flavorful infused water recipe, perfect for warm days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) of filtered water
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon balm and mint leaves.
2. Pour in the filtered water, making sure that the herbs are completely submerged.
3. Cover the pitcher with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent any stray leaves from floating away.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, add ice cubes if desired to chill the water further.
6. Strain the infused water into glasses and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lemon Balm Pesto Pasta
This refreshing pasta dish combines the sweetness of lemon balm with the creaminess of pesto, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup freshly made lemon balm pesto (see note)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, lemon balm pesto, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make lemon balm pesto, combine 1/2 cup freshly chopped lemon balm leaves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, and 2 cloves garlic in a food processor. Process until smooth.
Lemon Balm and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Brighten up your seafood dinner with the zesty flavors of lemon balm and garlic butter, perfectly paired with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped lemon balm leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon balm until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic-lemon balm butter.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Servings: 4
Lemon Balm Sorbet with Fresh Berries
Combine the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon balm with the sweetness of fresh berries for a unique and refreshing sorbet perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped lemon balm leaves
– 2 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Add chopped lemon balm leaves to the mixture and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the lemon balm leaves.
4. Add mixed berries and lemon juice to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Lemon Balm Lemonade Sparkler
This sparkling drink is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with the added bonus of lemon balm’s subtle herbal notes. It’s an ideal beverage for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a revitalizing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Steep the dried lemon balm leaves in the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a new pitcher, discarding the lemon balm leaves.
5. Stir in sparkling water and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve the Lemon Balm Lemonade Sparkler over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required. Prepare the drink just before serving.
Lemon Balm and Cucumber Salad
Lemon Balm and Cucumber Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the sweet and tangy flavors of lemon balm with the coolness of cucumber, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh lemon balm leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and lemon balm leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Balm Chicken Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with these flavorful and refreshing Lemon Balm Chicken Skewers. The combination of succulent chicken, tangy lemon zest, and sweet balm leaves will transport your taste buds to a sunny Mediterranean afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm leaves
– 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 olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon balm leaves.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 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 per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lemon Balm-infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with this refreshing and flavorful lemon balm-infused olive oil, perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or as a finishing touch for dishes.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (for added depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Combine olive oil and lemon balm leaves in a clean glass jar or bottle.
2. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, pressing on solids to extract as much oil as possible.
4. Discard the lemon balm leaves and reserve the infused olive oil.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a slow infusion process that occurs over 24 hours.
Use your homemade lemon balm-infused olive oil within 6 months for optimal flavor and quality.
Lemon Balm and Peach Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of peaches with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon balm, perfect for a warm summer day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the peaches, lemon balm leaves, Greek yogurt, and almond milk.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes to chill the smoothie.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lemon Balm Shortbread Cookies
Lemon Balm Shortbread Cookies: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat!
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweet and citrusy flavor of lemon balm are perfect for a warm weather treat or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons dried lemon balm leaves
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon juice, lemon balm leaves, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Balm and Goat Cheese Tart
Lemon Balm and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional tarts, this Lemon Balm and Goat Cheese Tart combines the bright citrus flavor of lemon balm with the creamy richness of goat cheese. Perfect for a light and lovely dessert or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped lemon balm leaves
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and honey until well combined.
3. Arrange the lemon balm leaves on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Spread the goat cheese mixture over the lemon balm.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or shape of your choice.
6. Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Balm Ice Cubes for Cocktails
Lemon Balm Ice Cubes: Elevate Your Cocktails with a Squeeze of Fresh Flavor!
These aromatic ice cubes are infused with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon balm, adding a refreshing twist to your favorite cocktails. Simply mix and chill, then add to your drink for a burst of herbal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
– Ice cube trays
Instructions:
1. Combine water and lemon balm leaves in a small bowl.
2. Let the mixture steep at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into the ice cube trays, pressing on the solids to extract as much flavor as possible.
4. Freeze until solid, about 2-3 hours.
Tips:
– Use fresh lemon balm leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
– Adjust the amount of lemon balm to your taste; you can always add more, but it’s harder to remove excess flavor.
– These ice cubes are perfect for adding a subtle hint of lemon balm to gin-based cocktails, sparkling water, or even tea!
Lemon Balm and Basil Pesto
This refreshing pesto recipe combines the sweet, citrusy flavor of lemon balm with the classic pairing of basil. Perfect for topping pasta, pizza, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil and lemon balm leaves.
2. Process until the herbs are finely chopped.
3. Add pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Process until well combined.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
5. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of pesto
Lemon Balm-infused Honey
This refreshing honey infused with the sweet, citrusy flavor of lemon balm is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a natural sweetener in tea and cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw honey
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves (or 2 tablespoons dried)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Combine honey and lemon balm leaves (fresh or dried) in a small saucepan.
2. Add the water and stir to combine.
3. Heat over low heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and the flavors have melded together (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
5. Strain the honey through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Discard the lemon balm leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Balm Rice Pilaf with Almonds
This refreshing pilaf combines the bright flavor of lemon balm with the nutty taste of almonds, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemon balm leaves
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the lemon balm leaves and almonds. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Balm and Raspberry Jam
This sweet and tangy jam combines the freshness of lemon balm with the sweetness of raspberries, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh lemon balm leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the raspberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped lemon balm leaves and pectin (if using). Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Balm Roasted Salmon
Lemon Balm Roasted Salmon: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Recipe
Roasting salmon with lemon balm adds a bright, citrusy flavor to this classic dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh lemon balm leaves
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 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 or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon balm leaves, lemon juice, and garlic.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the refreshing world of lemon balm recipes! From sipping on Lemon Balm Iced Tea with Honey to indulging in Lemon Balm Pesto Pasta, this herb adds a bright and citrusy twist to any dish. Enjoy cooling treats like Lemon Balm Sorbet with Fresh Berries or revitalizing drinks like Lemon Balm and Mint Infused Water. Get creative with Lemon Balm-Infused Olive Oil or Lemon Balm and Peach Smoothie. And don’t forget the sweet treats, such as Lemon Balm Shortbread Cookies or Lemon Balm and Goat Cheese Tart! There’s something for every season in these 18 refreshing lemon balm recipes.