Ingredients
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup juice)
- 4 large cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme for an herbal note
How to Make Lemon Garlic Mix
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Zest and Juice the Lemons: Start by zesting the lemons for that aromatic citrus peel. After zesting, juice the lemons, making sure to remove any seeds.
- Mince the Garlic: Chop the garlic finely for a more even flavor. For a smoother mix, you can even grate the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Combine
- Mix Together: In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Add Olive Oil: Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the mix is well-emulsified.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add dried oregano or thyme for a hint of earthiness.
Step 3: Store
Transfer the mix to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate. This Lemon Garlic Mix will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Use Lemon Garlic Mix
1. Marinades
- For Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts, thighs, or even wings in this mix for at least 30 minutes before cooking for a vibrant, flavorful result.
- For Fish: Use as a marinade for salmon, tilapia, or shrimp. The lemon brightens the seafood flavors beautifully.
2. Dressings
- For Salads: Toss with fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, and cucumbers for a zesty salad dressing.
- For Grains: Stir into cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice to add a burst of flavor without extra cooking.
3. Sauce or Drizzle
- For Roasted Veggies: Drizzle over roasted veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini before serving.
- For Pasta: Add to freshly cooked pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a simple, tasty dish.
4. Finishing Touch
- For Grilled Meats: After grilling, brush a little over steaks, lamb, or pork chops for a finishing burst of flavor.
- For Toast: Drizzle onto warm crusty bread for an easy appetizer or snack.
Tips for the Perfect Mix
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon and garlic really make the difference here, so skip the bottled substitutes.
- Adjust the Garlic: Add more or less garlic based on your taste preference—garlic lovers may want to add an extra clove or two.
- Experiment with Herbs: This mix works wonderfully with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill, so feel free to get creative!
Brighten Up Every Meal
This Lemon Garlic Mix is one of those easy, essential recipes that bring vibrant flavor to countless dishes. It’s an easy way to refresh your meals with bright, tangy, and savory notes. So, next time your meal needs a little something extra, reach for this homemade mix and watch your dishes come to life!
