If warmer spring weather has you craving bright, fresh flavors at mealtime, you’re not alone—and lemon recipes are just what you should turn to. Though available year-round, lemons can take a basic food and turn it into something extraordinary. The tart flavor of lemons helps to lighten and balance, making everything from beverages like iced tea or the season’s first pitcher of freshly squeezed lemonade, to dishes like tart-yet-sweet lemon cookies and roast chicken, even that much more crave-worthy. In-season ingredients such as asparagus, green beans, artichokes, spring salad greens, and early berries thrive with a touch of lemon.
When shopping for lemons, choose a fruit that feels heavy for its size for the most juice. Look for bright, yellow skin that’s smooth and free from wrinkles, blemishes, or holes. Fresh lemons will also have a pleasant citrus aroma, especially at the stem end. Store lemons at room temperature if you intend to use them for your lemon recipes within the week or in the refrigerator crisper drawer for up to three weeks. Enjoy lemons in these sweet and savory recipes that put citrus in a starring role.
Lemon Braised Chicken and Celery with Gremolata
Gremolata, a slightly chunky savory topping made with lemon, parsley, and garlic, takes chicken thighs simmered with celery and onions to delicious new heights. Our version includes celery leaves for even fresher flavor and—bonus—less food waste.
Get the recipe: Lemon Braised Chicken and Celery with Gremolata
Instant Pot® Lemony Chicken and Potatoes
When it comes to Paleo-friendly lemon recipes, this one from the Instant Pot® makes enough food to feed eight with just 10 minutes of easy prep. Lemon zest and freshly squeezed juice impart a bright citrus flavor to chicken breasts and tender, golden potatoes accented with two kinds of herbs. For an easy round two meal, serve leftover chicken on top of salad greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Get the recipe: Instant Pot® Lemony Chicken and Potatoes
Lemon Bars
Everyone at the table can enjoy this gluten-free spin on luscious lemon bars. With a tender, buttery crust and not-too-sweet lemon filling, these sunny squares also make a tasty gift or afternoon pick-me-up with a spot of tea.
Get the recipe: Lemon Bars
Lemon Sorbet Sparklers
Add a touch of sparkle and whimsy to spring parties with this impressive (but easy!) lemon dessert. Hollowed-out lemons serve as the vessel for a refreshing combo of lemon sorbet and lemon-lime soda or seltzer. For a grownup version, swap in your favorite sparkling wine or splash of vodka.
Get the recipe: Lemon Sorbet Sparklers
Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
This palm-sized play on lemon meringue pie is portable and easy to serve on dessert platters or at your next picnic or potluck. Store-bought mini graham cracker crusts cut down on prep work for two-bite treats topped with a tangy lemon filling and airy meringue.
Get the recipe: Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo
If you’re nursing a springtime cold or just craving a little homemade comfort, a steaming bowl of avgolemono— a traditional Greek soup made with lemon and eggs — is just what the doctor ordered. Our version includes shredded rotisserie chicken and orzo for a complete, nourishing meal in 30 minutes.
Get the recipe: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo
Artichokes with Creamy Lemon Dipping Sauce
Fresh artichokes are a springtime treat not to be missed, but prepping and cooking them can be a daunting task. This low-lift, five-ingredient appetizer makes it easy to enjoy them anytime. Whole artichokes steamed to tender perfection pair perfectly with a creamy, homemade lemon-chive dipping sauce.
Get the recipe: Artichokes with Creamy Lemon Dipping Sauce
Vanilla Lemon Icebox Cake
Impress guests with an epic dessert at your next springtime get-together, no oven required. This frozen treat with layers of lemony cream cheese filling and cookies tastes like cheesecake without the fuss
Get the recipe: Vanilla Lemon Icebox Cake
Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Olive oil is the key to a light and tender, ultra-moist crumb in this standout bundt cake. Ground pistachios impart a subtle nutty flavor counterbalanced with bright, citrusy notes of fresh lemon.
Get the recipe: Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Scallops with Creamy Lemon Sauce
This lightning-fast seafood recipe can turn any night into a special occasion in just 15 minutes. Fresh lemon, shallots, and white wine (or substitute chicken broth) combine in a creamy pan sauce over pan-seared scallops paired with a side of microwave-ready green beans.
Get the recipe: Scallops with Creamy Lemon Sauce
Mango Lemon Bars
Classic lemon bars get a tropical twist in this tasty dessert that comes together with 10 minutes of prep. Fresh or frozen mango adds a pop of sweetness and color to classic lemon bars on a buttery crust with a hint of almond.
Get the recipe: Mango Lemon Bars
Lemony Roast Chicken with Cabbage
One pan, five ingredients, and 15 minutes of prep means dinner is done with this springtime skillet—a favorite among our lemon recipes. Fresh lemon brings the zing to a whole chicken roasted on a bed of green cabbage (not sure about roasted cabbage? Trust us, it’s delicious). For a touch of smoky-sweet flavor, gently char a halved lemon using the stovetop or broiler before quartering and stuffing inside the chicken cavity.
Get the recipe: Lemony Roast Chicken with Cabbage
Lemon Pie Sandwich Cookies
Flowers are a guaranteed way to brighten even the rainiest of spring days, especially when they taste this good. Cute, daisy-shaped flower cookies are cut from sheets of refrigerated pie dough and then sandwiched together with store-bought lemon curd and marshmallow creme to create these lemon-meringue-pie-inspired treats.
Get the recipe: Lemon Pie Sandwich Cookies
Honey Lemon Chicken
A touch of sweetness goes a long way in this family-friendly chicken dinner. Honey, fresh lemon, and chicken broth combine into a sweet-tangy sauce over pan-seared chicken cutlets served with brown rice.
Get the recipe: Honey Lemon Chicken
