Southern Living's recipe for lemon basil marinade has become a go-to for many home cooks looking to add a burst of flavor to their dishes. This simple yet delicious marinade combines the tanginess of lemon with the herbaceousness of basil, creating a versatile and mouthwatering addition to any meal. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a healthier alternative to store-bought marinades that are often packed with preservatives and additives. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients and steps to create this crowd-pleasing marinade.
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Quaker Quick Grits, Cream Cheese, Crushed
Start off your Beer Can Chicken adventure with a Southern twist. These Jalapeno Cheese Grits from Southern Living add a spicy kick to the traditional grits, making for a perfect pairing with your tender and juicy chicken.
2of 20
Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Nothing says Southern like a good old-fashioned cornbread. This recipe for Southern Skillet Cornbread is a classic and a staple in Southern kitchens. The crispy edges and moist center make it the perfect accompaniment to your Beer Can Chicken.
Take your Beer Can Chicken to the next level with this Southern Smothered Chicken recipe. The chicken is smothered in a flavorful gravy made with onions, mushrooms, and a touch of bacon for added richness. Serve over rice for a hearty and comforting meal.
No Southern meal is complete without some collard greens. This traditional side dish is a staple in Southern cuisine and a perfect addition to your Beer Can Chicken feast. Seasoned with smoked ham hock and apple cider vinegar, these collard greens are sure to be a hit.
Put a Southern twist on your Beer Can Chicken with this Cornbread Dressing. Made with cornbread, sausage, and celery, this dressing is the ultimate comfort food. Serve it alongside your chicken for a delicious and filling meal.
If you're feeling adventurous, try this Southern Smothered Oxtails recipe. Oxtails are slow-cooked in a flavorful gravy made with onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve with your Beer Can Chicken for a true Southern feast.
7of 20
Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a side of biscuits. These Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits are easy to make and the perfect accompaniment to your Beer Can Chicken. Serve them warm with a pat of butter for a delicious treat.
Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic Southern comfort food. This recipe for Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese takes the traditional dish to the next level with the addition of bacon and breadcrumbs. Serve it alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a delicious and indulgent meal.
If you're looking for a lighter version of the classic Southern mac and cheese, try this recipe for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. Made with a combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese, this dish is still creamy and delicious but with a little less guilt.
No Southern meal is complete without a sweet treat to end it. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious and easy dessert to make. The pecans, brown sugar, and butter come together to create a rich and indulgent dessert that pairs perfectly with your Beer Can Chicken.
During the summer months, nothing beats a fresh Southern Peach Cobbler. This recipe is made with fresh peaches, cinnamon, and a buttery biscuit topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate Southern dessert.
Add some greens to your Beer Can Chicken meal with this recipe for Classic Southern Collard Greens. These tender greens are simmered in a flavorful broth made with ham hocks and chicken broth for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Pimento cheese is a beloved Southern dip that is perfect for snacking while your Beer Can Chicken is cooking. This recipe for Southern Pimento Cheese is made with sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. Serve with crackers or veggies for a tasty appetizer.
Cabbage is a staple in Southern cooking and this recipe for Southern Cabbage is a delicious and easy way to enjoy it. Bacon and onions add flavor to this simple dish that is the perfect complement to your Beer Can Chicken.
If you're looking for a classic cornbread recipe, try this one for Southern Cornbread. Made with cornmeal, buttermilk, and honey, this cornbread is moist and flavorful. Serve it alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a delicious meal.
This Southern Sausage Gravy is a staple in many Southern households and for good reason. The combination of sausage, milk, and flour creates a rich and creamy gravy that is perfect for topping your Beer Can Chicken and biscuits.
Hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish that is the perfect accompaniment to your Beer Can Chicken. This recipe for Southern Hush Puppies is easy to make and the cornmeal and buttermilk give them a delicious and unique flavor.
If you're looking for a tasty and creative way to use up some summer squash, try this recipe for Southern Squash Casserole. The combination of squash, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs make for a delicious and comforting side dish.
This recipe for Southern Fried Corn is a delicious and unique way to enjoy this summer vegetable. The corn is cooked in a butter and milk mixture until it is creamy and flavorful. Serve it alongside your Beer Can Chicken for a tasty meal.
20of 20
Southern Living's Best Carrot Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Ground Cinnamon
No Southern celebration is complete without a Carrot Cake. This recipe from Southern Living is considered the best and it's easy to see why. The cream cheese frosting and pecans make for a decadent and delicious dessert that is the perfect end to your Beer Can Chicken meal.
Ingredients:
Lemon Juice
The star of this marinade is lemon juice, which adds a refreshing and acidic element to the dish. Lemon juice is not only packed with Vitamin C, but it also helps tenderize meat and adds a bright flavor to dishes.
Basil
The other key ingredient in this marinade is basil, a fragrant herb that adds a touch of sweetness and earthiness to the dish. Basil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is a great source of Vitamin K, making this marinade not only delicious but also nutritious.
Garlic
No marinade is complete without the addition of garlic. Not only does it add a depth of flavor, but it also has numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, chopped basil, minced garlic, honey, and salt together.
2. Place your meat of choice in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the meat, making sure it's fully coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
5. When ready to cook, remove the meat from the marinade and discard any excess.
6. Grill, bake, or sauté the meat as desired.
Conclusion:
Southern Living's recipe for lemon basil marinade is a must-try for any home cook. Not only is it easy to make, but it also adds a burst of flavor to any dish. So next time you're looking to elevate your cooking, give this marinade a try and watch as your taste buds thank you.