Visually, spring brings vibrant blooms and clear blue skies. But in a more gustatory sense, spring has us craving equally as bright fruits and veggies, from earthy, raw carrots and sweet, juicy apples to tart, mouth-puckering lemons — the latter of which we’re most excited to embrace this season in our very own kitchens. And who better to turn to for lemon-spiked recipes than the Barefoot Contessa herself, Ina Garten?
Garten, who has authored more than one dozen cookbooks, is a seemingly never-ending resource for approachable, down-to-earth, delicious recipes, which range from savory appetizers and one-pan weeknight dinners to sweet, irresistible desserts. And after doing a deep dive into Garten’s many, many dishes, it’s no surprise we were met with dozens of lemon recipes.
From thirst-quenching lemon cocktails and rich-and-creamy lemon mashed potatoes to juicy skillet-roasted lemon chicken and her famous, lemon barsahead are Garten’s very best lemon recipes.
Lemon Drop Cocktail
For an easy cocktail worth sipping while whipping up your lemon dish, shake up Garten’s vodka-spiked Lemon Drop Cocktail.
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Pureed Potatoes with Lemon
Garten’s Puréed Potatoes with Lemon is a beginner-level dish that features just four ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, unsalted butter, whole milk and the grated lemon zest from two lemons.
Get the full recipe at Barefoot Contessa.
Lemon Orzo
Another easy side dish, Garten’s Lemon Orzo pairs perfectly with juicy herb-seasoned chicken breasts.
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Lemon Capellini
Lemon tastes great with pasta, and Garten’s Lemon Capellini is no exception. To make this 10-minute dish, simply boil your pasta, make your butter-lemon sauce, and combine. Bon appetit!
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Lemon Fusilli with Arugula
Garten’s Lemon Fusilli with Arugula has everything you need for a stellar pasta dish: garlic, broccoli, freshly grated parmesan, arugula, cherry tomatoes and plenty of lemon flavor.
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Lemon Pasta with Roasted Shrimp
As the name of the dish suggests, this pepper-sprinkled lemon pasta features shrimp — and lots of it. (We’re talking two pounds!)
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Skillet-Roasted Lemon Chicken
“Skillet-Roasted Lemon Chicken is my go-to dinner any day but particularly now!” Garten writes. “The sliced lemon, onions, and garlic make the best sauce! With some steamed rice to catch the sauce and a roast vegetable, you’ll have a delicious feast!”
Get the full recipe at Barefoot Contessa.
Tuscan Lemon Chicken
This classic Garten recipe was originally published in 2008 in the chef’s cookbook Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics. Since, the chicken dish has garnered much praise from fans.
Get the full recipe at Barefoot Contessa.
Fresh Lemon Mousse Recipe
Garten fans’ go-to dessert for spring and summer, this fluffy Fresh Lemon Mousse dish tastes great when topped with whipped cream and studded with fresh fruits, like strawberries and blueberries.
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Lemon Bars
Fans love Garten’s Lemon Bars and for good reason: They boast a sugary lemon filling and a perfectly flaky lemon crust, dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
Get the full recipe at Barefoot Contessa.
Lemon Yogurt Cake
Put your baking skills to the test with Garten’s Lemon Yogurt Cake, which is drizzled with a lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar glaze.
Get the full recipe at Barefoot Contessa.
Lemon Curd
Garten’s Lemon Curd is actually pretty easy to make. Simply pulse lemon zest and sugar; combine with butter, eggs, lemon juice, and salt; simmer over low heat; and cool.
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
Lemon Meringue Tart
Last but not least is Garten’s showstopping Garten’s Lemon Meringue Tart: a buttery tart shell filled with a tart lemon filling that’ll have you going back for seconds (and thirds).
Get the full recipe at Food Network.
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