Making your own herb rub is the best feeling in the world! I mean, apart from having your own quantity you have the herb rub fresh. Plus the added advantage of smelling the sweet aroma as the spices meld together while blending. So far my best homemade rub I have made so far.

INGREDIENTS

1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
4 Garlic Cloves
1 Teaspoon Ground Thyme
3 Teaspoon Grated Lemon
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
2 Teaspoon GRosemary
1 Teaspoon Basil

METHOD

Add thyme to medium bowl

Add salt

Add rosemary

Add basil

Add grated lemon rinds

Add black pepper

Add garlic

The aroma coming from this mixture is just perfect

Start mixing the herbs and seasoning

Mix until slightly combined

Add the mixture into a grinder and pulse a few minutes until coarse

The herbs and seasonings combined

Pour the lemon herb rub in small jar

Use to rub on chicken, beef or even pork

You can store in tightly closed jar for several weeks if not using immediately

You will totally fall in love with this simple lemon herb rub that is filled with fresh, lemony aroma perfect for flavoring your protein

LEMON HERB RUB

Recipe by Mulunga Alukwe

Prep time: 05 Minutes

Cook time: 00 Minutes

Total time: 05 Minutes

Yield: 1/2 Jar

Ingredients

1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
4 Garlic Cloves
1 Teaspoon Ground Thyme
1 Teaspoon Grated Lemon
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
2 Teaspoons Dried Rosemary
1 Teaspoon Basil

Cooking Directions

Add thyme to medium bowl. Add salt. Add rosemary. Add basil. Add grated lemon rinds. Add black pepper. Add garlic. The aroma coming from this mixture is just perfect
Start mixing the herbs and seasoning. Mix until slightly combined. Add the mixture into a grinder and pulse a few minutes until coarse
Pour the lemon herb rub in small jar. Use to rub on chicken, beef or even pork. You can store in tightly closed jar for several weeks if not using immediately
You will totally fall in love with this simple lemon herb rub that is filled with fresh, lemony aroma perfect for flavoring your protein

Here are 20 recipe ideas using Lemon Herb Rub, each packed with bright, citrusy flavor and savory herbs — perfect for light and refreshing meals:

Chicken Dishes

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts – Marinate with olive oil + rub, then grill until juicy.
Baked Lemon Herb Drumsticks – Coat generously and bake for crispy skin and zesty flavor.
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs (Sheet Pan) – Add baby potatoes and green beans for an all-in-one meal.
Stuffed Chicken Breast – Fill with cream cheese and spinach, season with rub before baking.
Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers – Thread onto skewers with bell peppers and grill.

Fish & Seafood

Baked Salmon Fillet – Sprinkle rub on salmon, drizzle with olive oil, and bake with lemon slices.
Lemon Herb Tilapia – Quick-pan seared or oven-baked with rub and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Toss shrimp in rub and olive oil, grill until just pink.
Lemon Herb Cod Packets – Bake cod in foil with zucchini and cherry tomatoes.
Seared Scallops – Light dusting of rub, seared in butter, served over risotto or pasta.

Vegetarian & Sides

Roasted Lemon Herb Potatoes – Toss wedges with olive oil and rub, roast until golden.
Grilled Asparagus – Lightly coat with oil and rub, grill until tender-crisp.
Lemon Herb Couscous or Rice – Stir into warm grains for a fresh finish.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats – Fill with quinoa or rice and season with the rub.
Oven-Roasted Cauliflower – Great for meal prep or a low-carb side.

Light & Fresh

Lemon Herb Pasta Salad – Add to vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, and veggies.
Quinoa Chickpea Salad – Season grains and chickpeas with rub and lemon juice.
Lemon Herb Greek Salad – Toss cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, and feta with rub and olive oil.

Creative Uses

Lemon Herb Butter – Mix with softened butter for spreading on bread or melting over veggies.

Lemon Herb Popcorn Seasoning – Sprinkle a pinch on hot popcorn with olive oil for a unique snack!

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Lemon Herb Rub. A zesty and aromatic seasoning blend made with fresh lemon zest and a mix of herbs, perfect for adding bright citrus flavor and herbal freshness to meats, fish, vegetables, or tofu. This versatile rub enhances dishes with minimal effort and maximum taste.

FAQs – Lemon Herb Rub

Q: What herbs are typically included in a lemon herb rub?
A: Common herbs include rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, and sometimes basil, combined with lemon zest and garlic powder.

Q: How should I apply the lemon herb rub?
A: Pat your protein or vegetables dry, then evenly rub the mixture over the surface. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking for best flavor.

Q: Can I store the lemon herb rub?
A: Yes, if made as a dry blend, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months in a cool, dry place. Fresh versions with lemon juice should be used immediately or refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Q: Is this rub suitable for all types of cooking?
A: Absolutely! It works great for grilling, roasting, baking, or pan-searing.

Q: Can I use lemon herb rub on seafood?
A: Yes, it’s especially excellent on fish, shrimp, and scallops, adding a bright and fresh flavor.

Printable Nutrition Card (Per 1 tsp serving — dry rub)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	5 kcal	Very low calorie, mainly from herbs and zest
Total Fat	0 g	Negligible fat
Sodium	Varies	Depends on added salt; adjust to taste
Carbohydrates	1 g	From herbs and lemon zest
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	Contains some dietary fiber from herbs
Sugars	0 g	Negligible sugar
Protein	0.1 g	Trace amounts from herbs
Vitamin C	3% DV	From lemon zest

DV = Daily Value; based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Dietary Information Table

Diet Type	Suitable?	Notes
Vegetarian	✅ Yes	No animal products
Vegan	✅ Yes	Entirely plant-based
Gluten-Free	✅ Yes	Naturally gluten-free
Keto / Low-Carb	✅ Yes	Very low carbohydrate
Paleo	✅ Yes	Compliant ingredients
Low-FODMAP	✅ Yes*	Use without garlic powder or replace with garlic-infused oil
Dairy-Free	✅ Yes	Contains no dairy
Heart-Healthy	✅ Yes	Low sodium option recommended; no added fats

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.