Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Which Herbs & Spices Go With Lemons

The flavor of lemons can be further enhanced with the addition of herbs and spices.








Lemons are a versatile fruit that can be used for anything from cooking to cleaning. When used as a cooking ingredient, lemons offer many health benefits. Lemons contain a high level of vitamin C and are widely known to aid digestion, act as a diuretic, stave off infections and boost the immune system. Lemons are tasty on their own, but the addition of different herbs and spices help to enhance the flavor of your meals.


Black Pepper


Lemon and black pepper are a tasty combination commonly used to season white meats such as fish and poultry. Lemon and pepper also make a delectable addition to many vegetable dishes. Lemon pepper seasoning, a combination of lemon zest and black pepper, can be found in the spice aisle at any grocery store. You can make your own by combing grated lemon zest with ground black pepper or combine lemon juice with pepper for added citrus flavor. Lemon and pepper can be used to season food while cooking or used as a marinade to flavor foods before cooking.


Garlic


Lemon and garlic is a healthy combination that is especially delicious in dishes with vegetables or white meat. The main ingredient in garlic, allicin, has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-oxidant properties that are most effective when the garlic is served raw. Try using this combination as a marinade, as a cooking aid or as a garnish for already prepared meats and vegetables. You can purchase whole cloves of garlic in the produce aisle of your grocery store or save some time by using pre-minced garlic found in jars in the spice aisle.


Dill


Fresh dill is commonly combined with lemon to enhance the flavor of meat dishes such as fish and lamb. Although this combination can be used with any fish, it is most commonly found in salmon. Try combining lemon juice with melted butter or olive oil, drizzle this over the meat and then season with dry dill. You can also make a tasty sauce by combining two or three tablespoons of lemon juice and dill with Greek yogurt or sour cream. Pour this sauce over grilled salmon or use as a vegetable dip.

Tags: black pepper, lemon juice, Lemon pepper, also make, enhance flavor