Lemon-Herb Marinade

Introduction

History

The combination of lemon and herbs in marinades has been used for centuries in Mediterranean cuisine. Lemon juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor, while herbs like parsley add freshness and depth to the marinade. This classic flavor combination has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate your protein or vegetables for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will give your marinade a more vibrant taste.

- Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. You can always add more seasoning later, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the marinated protein or vegetables with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Use the Lemon-Herb Marinade as a marinade for chicken, fish, shrimp, or vegetables before grilling, roasting, or sautéing.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use other citrus juices like lime or orange in place of lemon juice.

- Substitute canola or vegetable oil for olive oil if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using.

Presentation Ideas

Drizzle the marinade over grilled meats or vegetables for a pop of color and flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Lemon-Herb Marinade with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or roasted vegetables for a delicious and flavorful meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan before using.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Lemon-Herb Marinade contains approximately 140 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Lemon-Herb Marinade contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The marinade contains approximately 14 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the olive oil.

Proteins

The marinade does not contain any significant amount of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

The Lemon-Herb Marinade is rich in vitamin C from the lemon juice and parsley. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A and iron.

Alergens

This marinade contains olive oil, which may be an allergen for some individuals. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

The Lemon-Herb Marinade is a low-carb and flavorful option for marinating meats, seafood, and vegetables. It is a good source of healthy fats and vitamin C.

Summary

The Lemon-Herb Marinade is a versatile and flavorful marinade that adds a bright and citrusy flavor to a variety of dishes. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this marinade is a great addition to your cooking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a sunny summer day, just like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that I had borrowed from the library. The title of the recipe caught my eye: Lemon-Herb Marinade. Intrigued, I flipped through the pages and read through the list of ingredients and instructions. It sounded like the perfect marinade for grilling chicken or fish, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients: fresh lemons, garlic, olive oil, and a variety of herbs from my garden – rosemary, thyme, and parsley. As I began to prepare the marinade, the kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of the herbs and citrus. It was a delightful scent that promised a delicious meal to come.

I marinated some chicken breasts in the lemon-herb mixture and let them sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. When it was time to grill them, I couldn't believe how flavorful and juicy they turned out. The combination of the tangy lemon, the earthy herbs, and the rich olive oil created a perfect balance of flavors that complemented the chicken beautifully.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but think about all the different recipes I had learned over the years. Some were passed down from my own mother, while others were shared with me by friends and acquaintances. Each recipe had its own story, its own origin, and its own special place in my heart.

This Lemon-Herb Marinade recipe quickly became one of my favorites. It was versatile and easy to make, yet it added a gourmet touch to any dish. I started using it not only for grilling chicken and fish but also for marinating vegetables and tofu. It became a staple in my kitchen, and I knew it would be a hit with my family and friends as well.

I shared the recipe with my daughter, who was just starting to experiment in the kitchen. She was thrilled to learn how to make the marinade and soon began using it in her own cooking. It was a joy to see her carry on the tradition of exploring new recipes and flavors, just like I had done when I was her age.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the Lemon-Herb Marinade recipe. I experimented with different proportions of herbs and citrus, trying to find the perfect balance of flavors. I added a touch of honey for sweetness and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Each variation brought its own unique twist to the marinade, and I loved trying them all.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking was more than just following a recipe – it was a form of creative expression. I would often spend hours in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, letting my imagination run wild. Cooking became a way for me to relax, to unwind, and to share my love of food with others.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of herbs and citrus, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have learned over the years. Each one tells a story, a story of discovery, of experimentation, and of love. And the story of the Lemon-Herb Marinade will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of cooking and the beauty of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

Categories

| Barbecue Recipes | Barbecue Sauce Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Fruit Juice Recipes | Fruit Recipes | Herb Recipes | Marinade Recipes | Two-step Recipes | Vegan Recipes | World Recipes |

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