When it comes to dessert flavors, pretty much the entire Drummond household would vote for chocolate. And yet, when Ree makes her perfect pound cake or famous lemon bars, “Let me tell you, they never last long.” Suspicious? Not in the least, because the bright, zesty flavor of lemon is always a crowd-pleaser. In fact, The Pioneer Woman’s top lemon recipes are some of her most popular of all time—both with her family and with her followers.
Of course, that puckery perfection doesn’t stop at lemon desserts. Lemon is essential to so many savory meals, adding the right amount of acid to balance flavors. She wouldn’t make her chicken piccata without it! In fact, you shouldn’t either. It only takes a few squeezes, and you’ll be on your way to a “simple, tangy, and pretty darn delectable” chicken dinner. And could you picture serving seafood without it? It’s a must!
The other amazing thing about lemons is that they’re available (and quite tasty) all year round. They’re like a burst of sunshine even on a cold winter night or a dreary, rainy spring day. So be like Ree and make her lemon recipes whenever you’re craving a fresh pop of citrus flavor… you know, like right now, for example. You’ve got ten of her favorites right here, so get squeezin’!
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Lemon Bars
Kate Sears
While there are plenty of lemon bar recipes out there, Ree’s stands out for one buttery reason: the crust! Hers has a larger crust-to-filling ratio, making each bite perfectly balanced.
Asparagus is one of Ree’s favorite vegetables, particularly in spring when it’s in season. Lemon adds a bright freshness to the mix that is not to be missed. Simple ingredients for the win!
Ree had this classic dish “a million years ago” at a restaurant and set out to make it for herself. “With a strong lemon flavor and the decadence of cream,” it will find a place in your dinner rotation for sure!
"This is the best cake of my whole life," Ree’s daughter proclaims. The secret? Lemon extract and lemon-lime soda! She also has a lemon pound cake that uses the juice and zest if you want to try that route. You’ll be happy either way.
Not only are these mini pies easier to serve, they’re easier to make, too. Skip the complicated crust and layer a graham cracker crumble followed by a luscious lemon filling. Dollop with meringue and torch away!
This has been a favorite of Ree’s since at least 1982 (maybe ‘81!) and it’s shockingly easy to make. All you need are butter, garlic, lemon, and shrimp, plus 15 minutes of your time. That’s it!
Lemons and poppy seeds go together like peanut butter and jelly. You get lots of extra lemon flavor in these delicate bites, with zest in the scones, plus both juice and zest in the sweet glaze.
Ree hasn’t met a potato she doesn’t like, but this side dish truly stands out. “The secret is in the sauce: As the potatoes roast, they absorb the lemony, herby broth, resulting in a texture that is pillowy, crisp, and so darn delicious.”
Why have one hit of lemon when you can have three? The tender cake has zest, the tangy frosting uses the juice, and once assembled, they’re topped with candied peel. It’s the perfect amount of pucker in each bite.
Ree continues to experiment with her love of lemon. One of her newer hits is this easy 30-minute meal. “The abundance of herbs is key here—parsley, dill, basil, and chives work so well with the lemon to brighten up the dish.”