Are you looking for a flavor boost to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the tangy and sweet combination of lemons, peppers, and spices! In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the perfect harmony of these three ingredients. From savory dishes like Lemon Drop Pepper Chicken Skewers and Spicy Lemon Drop Pepper Shrimp Tacos to sweet treats like Lemon Drop Pepper Honey Glazed Salmon and refreshing drinks like Lemon Drop Pepper Margarita Cocktail, there’s something for everyone.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemons, the bold kick of peppers, and the warmth of spices. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Lemon Drop Pepper Chicken Skewers
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful and colorful skewers, perfect for a summer evening or anytime you need a burst of citrusy goodness!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and bell peppers; toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Lemon Drop Pepper Shrimp Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and zesty recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy lemon pepper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, hot sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and stir to combine.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the tacos with the shrimp mixture, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Honey Glazed Salmon
This refreshing recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the brightness of lemon and the crunch of black pepper to create a flavorful and moist salmon dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-lemon glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glaze and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Lemon Drop Pepper Salsa
A refreshing twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the heat of peppers and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced fresh yellow bell peppers
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced red and yellow bell peppers.
2. Add the lemon juice, chopped jalapeño, and honey to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Lemon Drop Pepper Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and colorful stir-fry! This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers, the tanginess of lemons, and the spiciness of black pepper to create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional: your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu work well)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers; cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until tender.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this zesty and aromatic infused olive oil, perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to various dishes. This recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the subtle heat of pepper flakes, creating a unique and tantalizing condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the oil has taken on a slightly golden hue.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
5. Store the infused olive oil in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Lemon Drop Pepper Grilled Corn on the Cob
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your summer grilling with this simple recipe for Lemon Drop Pepper Grilled Corn on the Cob.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup black peppercorns, coarsely ground
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and black pepper.
3. Brush the corn with the melted butter, then sprinkle with the lemon-pepper mixture.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your roasted Brussels sprouts with this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt until well coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Margarita Cocktail
This refreshing twist on a classic margarita combines the brightness of lemon and the spiciness of pepper, perfect for a warm evening or a sophisticated gathering. With its citrusy and peppery flavors, this cocktail is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounce pepper-infused simple syrup (see note)
• Salt, for rimming glass
• Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, lemon juice, agave nectar, and pepper-infused simple syrup.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make pepper-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool before using.
Lemon Drop Pepper Garlic Butter Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines the zesty zing of lemon with the pungency of garlic butter, all tied together with a hint of sweet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup roasted bell pepper strips (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice and roasted bell pepper strips. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the garlic-butter-lemon-pepper mixture until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper and Honey Glazed Wings
Elevate your wing game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the heat of pepper, and the richness of honey. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, hot sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Pickled Cucumbers
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your pickling game with these Lemon Drop Pepper Pickled Cucumbers. The perfect snack or side dish for any occasion, these pickles are infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtle heat of peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1-2 peppers, sliced (depending on desired heat level)
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. Add lemon juice and pepper slices to the bowl. Stir to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours to allow flavors to meld.
4. Once pickled, transfer the cucumbers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours
Lemon Drop Pepper Citrus Salad Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and tangy Lemon Drop Pepper Citrus Salad Dressing! Made with a perfect balance of citrus flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Lemon Drop Pepper Baked Brie with Crackers
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of creamy brie, tangy lemon, and crunchy crackers.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup lemon curd
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the brie cheese for 10-12 minutes, or until softened and slightly puffed.
- In a small bowl, mix together lemon curd, honey, and black pepper.
- Remove the baked brie from the oven and spread the lemon drop mixture evenly over the top.
- Serve with baguette slices and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Grilled Pineapple Slices
Elevate your summer barbecues with this refreshing twist on traditional grilled pineapple. The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy lemon zest, and spicy pepper flakes will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, lemon juice, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple slices with the sugar mixture.
4. Place pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle red pepper flakes (if using) over the pineapple.
6. Remove from heat and brush with melted butter.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Spiced Popcorn
Brighten up your snack time with this zesty and addictive popcorn flavor combination! A perfect blend of sweet and spicy, Lemon Drop Pepper Spiced Popcorn is sure to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until popped.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle salt over the popcorn and toss again to combine.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the popcorn and toss until well coated.
Cooking Time:
– 5 minutes to pop the kernels
– 2-3 minutes to toss with wet ingredients
– Total time: 7-8 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper and Herb Roasted Potatoes
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful roasted potatoes infused with the zesty tang of lemon, the warmth of pepper, and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, and rosemary.
3. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Drop Pepper Mojito Mocktail
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this mocktail combines the tanginess of lemon and the spiciness of pepper with the sweetness of simple syrup. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups club soda
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1-2 dashes black pepper
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slices or wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves.
2. Add club soda and stir gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle black pepper over the top of the mixture.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the mocktail mixture over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with lemon slices or wedges.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Discover the zesty flavor combination of lemon, drop peppers, and spices with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From savory dishes like Lemon Drop Pepper Chicken Skewers and Spicy Lemon Drop Pepper Shrimp Tacos to sweet treats like Lemon Drop Pepper Honey Glazed Salmon and refreshing drinks like Lemon Drop Pepper Margarita Cocktail, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and zesty collection of recipes.
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