Looking for a tasty and versatile marinade that will elevate your grilled meats and vegetables? Look no further than this classic herb and citrus marinade! Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, lemon and orange zest, this marinade infuses your food with a burst of tangy, herbaceous flavor that’s perfect for summer grilling. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner cook, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your friends and family. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try and take your grilling game to the next level!
Here is why you might love this Classic Herb and Citrus Marinade Recipe
1. It adds a fresh and bright flavor to any meat or vegetable dish.
2. The combination of herbs and citrus creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste.
3. It’s a versatile marinade that can be used on a variety of dishes, making it a go-to recipe for any season or occasion.
Classic Herb and Citrus Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (109.6 g) extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup (61.9 g) lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (61.4 g) lime juice
- 1/4 cup (62.9 g) orange juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.2 teaspoon) black pepper
Instructions
- Classic Herb and Citrus Marinade
- Measure out 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- Measure out 1/4 cup each of fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and orange juice
- Add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons of honey
- Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- Mince 3 garlic cloves and add to mixture
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined
- Use to marinate meat or vegetables as desired
- Recipe yields 10 servings.
Notes
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Main Ingredients Explained
| Ingredients | Description | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh herbs | Usually a combination of thyme, rosemary, and oregano. | Dried herbs can be used instead or other fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. |
| Citrus juice/zest | Typically from lemons and oranges for a bright, tangy flavor. | Lime or grapefruit can be used instead or add in other fruits like pineapple or mango for a tropical twist. |
| Garlic | Adds depth and richness to the marinade. | Shallots, ginger or onion can be used instead or omit for a milder flavor. |
Storage Tips
– Storing: Store the marinade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents.
– Freezing: If you want to freeze the marinade, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag, leaving some space for expansion during freezing. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
– Defrosting: To use frozen marinade, defrost it overnight in the fridge or under cold running water. Do not defrost it in the microwave or at room temperature, as it may promote bacterial growth.
– Shelf life: The shelf life of a marinade depends on its ingredients, such as the acidity level and the presence of fresh herbs or garlic, which can promote bacterial growth.
In general, a marinade that contains vinegar or citrus juice can last up to a month in the fridge, while a marinade with oil and fresh herbs should be used within a week.
Frozen marinade can last up to 3 months. Always use your own judgement and common sense when deciding if a marinade is still safe to use. If it smells off, looks cloudy, or has an unusual texture, discard it.
Recipe Variations
1. Asian-Inspired Herb and Citrus Marinade: This variation uses ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and ginger along with fresh herbs and citrus juices to give a complex and savory flavor to the marinade.
2. Spicy Herb and Citrus Marinade: This variation adds ingredients such as chili flakes, cumin, and mustard to the base recipe, giving it a spicy kick.
3. Greek-style Herb and Citrus Marinade: This marinade variation incorporates Mediterranean staples like olive oil, garlic, and oregano to create a flavorful, herbaceous option that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and meats.
4. Sweet Herb and Citrus Marinade: If you prefer a sweeter marinade, this variation substitutes honey or brown sugar for the citrus juice, and incorporates cinnamon or other warming spices.
5. Smoky Herb and Citrus Marinade: This variation uses smoked paprika, cumin, and other smoky spices to infuse the marinade with a rich, smoky flavor.
What To Serve With
There are several options for serving dishes with Classic Herb and Citrus Marinade such as:
1. Grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions
2. Grilled meats such as steak, chicken, pork chops, or lamb
3. Salads consisting of mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, and avocado
4. Grilled seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or fish
5. Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
6. Couscous, quinoa, or rice pilaf
7. Garlic bread or crusty bread
8. Corn on the cob or grilled veggie skewers
9. Charred broccoli or asparagus
10. Grilled pineapple for dessert.
We are dedicated to providing the best and most effective meal plans to help you stay on track with your goals. Our team constantly tests and experiments with different recipes and approaches to ensure our offerings are of the highest quality. We also collaborate with a network of nutrition and data experts from around the globe to bring you innovative and advanced meal plans.