Lemon Thyme Basil Bbq Sauce Marinade
Bright, zesty, and herbaceous, this Lemon Thyme Basil BBQ Sauce Marinade is the perfect blend of citrusy freshness and smoky spice to elevate your grilling game. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, fragrant thyme, and chopped basil, this versatile marinade adds a burst of vibrant flavor to proteins and vegetables alike. A touch of honey and balsamic vinegar balance the tangy notes, while Dijon mustard and smoked paprika create a rich, savory depth. Quick to prepare in just 10 minutes and simmered to perfection, this thick but pourable sauce doubles as a marinade and basting glaze, ensuring your grilled dishes are irresistibly flavorful with every bite. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for bold, unforgettable taste!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 whole zest of a lemon
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the lemon zest. Whisk to release the citrus oils.
Add the chopped basil, thyme leaves, and minced garlic to the bowl, stirring to evenly distribute the fresh herbs.
Gradually whisk in the olive oil to emulsify the mixture, followed by the honey and Dijon mustard.
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a uniform blend of spices.
Add in the balsamic vinegar and tomato paste, then stir until the paste is fully integrated.
Slowly mix in the water to adjust the consistency of the marinade. You want it thick but pourable.
Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Bring the marinade to a gentle simmer.
Cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature.
Use the marinade to coat your choice of proteins or vegetables. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
If using as a basting sauce during grilling, brush generously onto food during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
808 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.9 g | 77% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2771 mg | 120% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 65.1 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.1 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 201 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 6.4 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 812 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
