As the weather heats up, there’s nothing quite like the bright and citrusy flavor of lemons to keep your taste buds refreshed. When paired with the sweet and herbaceous flavor of basil, the combination is truly unbeatable. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 refreshing lemon basil recipes that are perfect for sizzling summer days. From light and zesty pasta dishes to sweet and tangy desserts, these recipes showcase the versatility of lemons and basil as a dynamic duo.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a unique twist on your favorite cocktails, we’ve got you covered with our selection of lemon basil recipes. So grab some fresh lemons and basil leaves, and get ready to add a burst of flavor to your summer meals!
Lemon Basil Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
This refreshing pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon zest, the sweetness of garlic butter, and the subtlety of fresh basil. Perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Marinade
This refreshing summer recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the subtlety of basil, creating a deliciously flavorful grilled chicken dish perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Basil Sorbet with Honey Drizzle
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing and flavorful sorbet, infused with the essence of lemon and basil, finished with a sweet honey drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil leaves. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard solids.
4. Whisk in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop sorbet into serving dishes. Drizzle with honey to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including steeping time)
Lemon Basil Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with this bright and refreshing infused olive oil, perfect for dressing salads, marinades, or as a finishing touch for pasta dishes. This recipe combines the citrusy zing of lemon zest with the subtle sweetness of basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup good-quality olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat.
2. Add the basil leaves and lemon zest to the oil. Stir gently to combine.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has infused and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Fresh Lemon Basil Salad with Feta
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing salad that combines the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of basil, and the tanginess of feta. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and chopped basil.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Crumble feta cheese over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 5 minutes or less.
Lemon Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with these succulent and flavorful shrimp skewers, perfectly balanced by the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of basil.
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; let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Lemon Basil Hummus with Pita Chips
This vibrant hummus recipe combines the classic flavors of garlic and lemon with the bright, herby taste of basil. Serve it with crunchy pita chips for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve with pita chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Basil Roasted Potatoes
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your meals with these easy-to-make Lemon Basil Roasted Potatoes. The combination of tender potatoes, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread potato mixture evenly.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Iced Tea with Mint
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and flavorful tea that combines the zesty taste of lemon, the subtle sweetness of basil, and the cooling touch of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon dried peppermint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the quart of water and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves and stir gently to infuse the flavors.
3. Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the dried peppermint leaves and stir well to combine.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey if desired.
6. Serve the tea over ice cubes and garnish with additional basil leaves or mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
Lemon Basil Stir-Fried Vegetables
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your meal with this quick and easy recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of basil, and the crunch of stir-fried vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they start to tenderize.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Basil Ricotta Toast
Lemon Basil Ricotta Toast: A refreshing twist on classic bruschetta, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle sweetness of basil and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of bread (preferably baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture onto each slice of toasted bread.
6. Top with chopped basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Basil White Fish en Papillote
Lemon Basil White Fish en Papillote is a light and flavorful dish that showcases the simplicity of cooking fish with citrus and herbs. This recipe yields a moist and aromatic fish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place a fish fillet in the center of each piece of parchment paper.
4. Top each fish with a slice of lemon, some chopped basil, and a sprinkle of garlic.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, creating a papillote, and secure with kitchen twine.
7. Place the fish en papillote on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Basil Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the brightness of lemon and the sweetness of basil, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and salt.
3. Add cooked quinoa, basil, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Mojito Cocktail
Brighten up your evening with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail. The combination of citrusy lemon, sweet basil, and mint creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lime wedges
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 ounces white rum
– 1 ounce club soda
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the lime wedges and mint leaves together to release their oils.
2. Add the basil leaves, lemon juice, and rum to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy shortbread cookies infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in granulated sugar, lemon juice, and chopped basil leaves.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Basil Cucumber Water
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing infused water recipe, perfect for hot summer days. This refreshing beverage combines the sweetness of cucumber, the brightness of lemon, and the subtle flavor of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced cucumber and fresh basil leaves.
2. Add the juice of 1 lemon to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, with ice cubes if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes.
Lemon Basil Roasted Carrots
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and flavorful side dish! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of basil, making it a perfect addition to any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and basil until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Basil Berry Parfait
This parfait combines the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of berries, and the subtlety of basil for a unique and delightful dessert. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– Whipped cream and additional basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and honey until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, mix berries with the lemon-honey mixture.
3. In a large glass or parfait dish, create layers of whipped cream, berry mixture, and heavy cream.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over each layer, if using.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Summary
Stay refreshed and cool this summer with these 18 mouthwatering lemon basil recipes! From classic pasta dishes to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Try our Lemon Basil Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce or Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Marinade for a flavorful twist on traditional grilled meats. For something sweet, indulge in our Lemon Basil Sorbet with Honey Drizzle or Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies. And don’t forget to try our refreshing drinks like Lemon Basil Iced Tea with Mint and Cucumber Water. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special occasion dish, these lemon basil recipes are sure to delight!