Getting creative with fresh thyme is a great way to elevate your cooking game, regardless of the season. This versatile herb adds depth and warmth to a wide range of dishes, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet treats and even cocktails. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the best of fresh thyme, from classic combinations like lemon and thyme roasted chicken to innovative uses like thyme-infused olive oil. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to delight. So let’s get cooking and discover the many wonders of fresh thyme!
Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing and flavorful lemon thyme roasted chicken recipe. The combination of tangy lemon, fragrant thyme, and savory chicken makes for a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the mixture evenly all over the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Thyme Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your meals with this flavorful side dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of garlic and thyme. This simple recipe is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for burgers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, or until they release their moisture and start browning.
5. Sprinkle thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Fresh Thyme and Honey Glazed Carrots
Fresh Thyme and Honey Glazed Carrots
A sweet and savory twist on classic roasted carrots, this recipe combines the brightness of fresh thyme with the warmth of honey for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot pieces with olive oil, salt, and thyme leaves until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the honey over the carrots, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Thyme Polenta
This comforting side dish combines the creamy richness of polenta with the earthy flavor of thyme, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup polenta
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to medium.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and thyme sprigs.
5. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thyme Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with the warm, earthy flavor of thyme infused into rich olive oil. This simple recipe is perfect for adding a unique twist to salads, sauces, and marinades.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup good-quality olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat.
2. Add the thyme leaves and salt to the warm oil.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
4. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time:
– 30 minutes (minimum) to overnight
Tips:
– Use fresh thyme leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
– Adjust the amount of thyme to your taste preferences.
– This infused oil is perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
Herbed Thyme and Parmesan Focaccia
Experience the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked focaccia infused with the earthy sweetness of thyme and the salty tang of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and yeast.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and thyme; mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shaping into desired form.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Drizzle with water and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Potatoes with Fresh Thyme
Roasted Potatoes with Fresh Thyme Recipe
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of potatoes while highlighting the warm, earthy flavor of fresh thyme. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, combine potato chunks, olive oil, and chopped thyme.
3. Toss to coat potatoes evenly with the mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thyme and White Wine Braised Lamb Shanks
This classic braising recipe showcases the rich flavour of lamb shanks, slow-cooked to tender perfection with thyme and white wine. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add white wine, broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Fresh Thyme and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a light dinner or brunch. The combination of fresh thyme, creamy goat cheese, and flaky pastry crust creates a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and chopped thyme.
4. Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the goat cheese mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place tart on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thyme and Lemon Grilled Salmon
Thyme and Lemon Grilled Salmon Recipe
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional grilled salmon, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of thyme for a dish that’s perfect for spring and summer.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place salmon on the grill and brush with the lemon-thyme mixture.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tomato Thyme Soup with Croutons
This recipe combines the flavors of summer with a hint of herbal freshness, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With the simplicity of a tomato soup and the added crunch of croutons, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Croutons:
+ 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
+ 2 tbsp olive oil
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, thyme sprigs, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning to the pot.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
7. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil and salt until evenly coated. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Thyme and Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory flavors of thyme and garlic with rich butter.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs flank steak or ribeye
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the steak on a cutting board and spread the garlic-thyme mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Place the steak in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Reduce heat to low and add butter to the pan. Let melt and coat the steak.
6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Thyme and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells! The combination of creamy ricotta, fragrant thyme, and herby parsley creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente, then set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, thyme, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Thyme and Rosemary Focaccia
Elevate your meal with the aromatic flavors of fresh thyme and rosemary in this easy-to-make focaccia recipe. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish, this herby flatbread is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Coarse sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining cup of flour; knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough on a floured surface; dimple with fingers, then sprinkle thyme and rosemary evenly.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle coarse sea salt (if using).
6. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thyme and Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate the humble Brussels sprout with a flavorful glaze featuring thyme and balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and thyme until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the sprouts are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar and salt.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the balsamic glaze.
7. Continue to roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and syrupy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and herbaceous shortbread cookies infused with the freshness of lemon and thyme. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in lemon juice and thyme leaves.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thyme and Honey Roasted Figs
Savor the sweetness of fresh figs with a hint of thyme and honey in this simple yet elegant dessert recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe figs, stemmed and halved
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
– Salt (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and thyme leaves until well combined.
3. Place the fig halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-thyme mixture evenly onto each fig half.
5. If using lemon juice, drizzle it over the figs for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the figs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Thyme and Citrus Salad Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and flavorful dressing, featuring the subtle earthiness of thyme and the tanginess of citrus. Perfect for warm weather, this recipe is a great way to add a pop of flavor to your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the chopped thyme and whisk until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in mere minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 18 flavorful fresh thyme recipes, perfect for every season. From savory dishes like Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken and Thyme Infused Olive Oil, to sweet treats like Lemony Thyme Shortbread Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add depth and warmth to your meals with classic combinations like garlic and thyme, or try new pairings like thyme and honey. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes are sure to delight.
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