Lemon balm, often thought of as a fresh and zesty herb for beverages and desserts, also has a place in savory cooking. This versatile herb, with its lemon-like aroma and refreshing taste, can add a burst of flavor to a variety of savory dishes. Whether you’re cooking chicken, roasting potatoes, or making a refreshing salad, lemon balm can elevate the flavors with its unique citrusy notes.
In this article, we’ll explore some creative ways to incorporate lemon balm into savory recipes. From marinated meats to vibrant salads and herbed dressings, these dishes show just how this herb can bring a fresh twist to your everyday meals. Let’s dive into these flavorful recipes!
1. Savory Lemon Balm Chicken
One of the easiest and most flavorful ways to use lemon balm in savory cooking is by incorporating it into a marinade for chicken. The herb pairs beautifully with garlic, olive oil, and apple juice, creating a fragrant mixture that infuses the chicken with bright, citrusy flavor.
Ingredients for Lemon Balm Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or fillets
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup apple juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the lemon balm, garlic, olive oil, apple juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Serve: Serve the lemon balm chicken with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing and delicious meal.
Why This Recipe Works:
The citrusy lemon balm complements the savory notes of the chicken, infusing it with a fragrant and fresh flavor. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, as it’s quick to prepare and cook while still delivering a deliciously unique taste.
2. Oven-Roasted Potatoes with Lemon Balm
Potatoes are a classic comfort food, but with the addition of lemon balm, they become something truly special. This recipe highlights the herb’s citrus notes, which elevate the potatoes' natural sweetness and savory flavor.
Ingredients for Oven-Roasted Potatoes with Lemon Balm:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil and sea salt until they’re evenly coated.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Add Lemon Balm: Remove the potatoes from the oven and toss with freshly chopped lemon balm while they are still hot.
- Serve: Serve these roasted potatoes as a side dish with grilled meats or as a snack on their own.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of roasted potatoes and lemon balm brings out the earthy flavor of the potatoes while adding a fresh citrusy aroma that’s perfect for summer meals.
3. Lemon Balm and Summer Veggie Tabouli Salad
Tabouli is a refreshing salad traditionally made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. By swapping out some of the parsley for lemon balm, you introduce a light, citrusy twist that makes the salad even more refreshing.
Ingredients for Lemon Balm and Summer Veggie Tabouli Salad:
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 1 ½ cups hot water
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bulgur: In a small bowl, pour the hot water over the bulgur and cover it. Let it soak for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
- Prepare the Veggies: While the bulgur is soaking, chop the tomato, zucchini, and yellow pepper into small pieces.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the soaked bulgur, chopped vegetables, and lemon balm. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Why This Recipe Works:
The lemon balm adds a refreshing flavor to the tabouli, enhancing the citrusy notes in the lemon juice while complementing the fresh vegetables. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch on its own.
4. Lemon Balm Vinaigrette
A tangy vinaigrette made with lemon balm adds a burst of fresh flavor to any salad or roasted vegetable dish. This simple dressing is versatile and can be drizzled over almost anything for an extra zing.
Ingredients for Lemon Balm Vinaigrette:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon balm, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is emulsified.
- Serve: Drizzle over your favorite salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats. Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why This Recipe Works:
The lemon balm adds a light, refreshing citrus note to the vinaigrette, making it the perfect complement to greens, roasted vegetables, or even grilled meats. This dressing is an easy way to add brightness to your dishes.
5. Cucumber Salad with Lemon Balm
Cucumber salad is a classic summer dish, and adding lemon balm to the mix gives it an extra layer of freshness. The combination of cool cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and sweet honey creates a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients for Cucumber Salad with Lemon Balm:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon balm, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, shallots, and lemon balm.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the honey is dissolved.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works:
The fresh cucumber and tangy lemon balm dressing create a light, refreshing salad that’s perfect for hot days. It pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone side dish.
6. Lemon Balm Pesto
Pesto is traditionally made with basil, but by swapping in lemon balm, you get a unique, citrus-infused version of this classic sauce. It’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip.
Ingredients for Lemon Balm Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh lemon balm, packed
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the lemon balm, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until smooth.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or drizzle over roasted vegetables.
Why This Recipe Works:
The lemon balm adds a refreshing, citrusy twist to the traditional pesto, making it a perfect topping for summer pasta dishes or a spread for sandwiches.
Savory Lemon Balm Recipes to Try Today
Lemon balm is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of savory dishes. Whether you’re marinating chicken, roasting potatoes, or making a refreshing salad, its citrusy flavor enhances a wide range of ingredients. These six recipes highlight the herb’s potential in savory cooking, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, give lemon balm a try in your savory dishes and enjoy its bright, refreshing flavor!
