🌿 Spices & Herbs

Lemon Thyme Substitute - Best Alternatives for Lemon Thyme

Discover the best substitutes for lemon thyme in your recipes. Learn about regular thyme with lemon, oregano, marjoram, and other citrus-herb combinations.

✓

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for lemon thyme are regular thyme with lemon zest (1:1 thyme + 1/2 tsp lemon zest), oregano with lemon (1:1 oregano + 1/2 tsp lemon zest), or marjoram with lemon (1:1 marjoram + 1/2 tsp lemon zest).

Best Substitutes

Regular Thyme + Lemon Zest

1 tsp lemon thyme = 1 tsp regular thyme + 1/2 tsp lemon zest

This combination provides the same earthy thyme flavor with the bright citrus note of lemon thyme

Best for:

roasted vegetablesmarinadessaucessalads

Most authentic substitute, provides both thyme and citrus flavors

Oregano + Lemon Zest

1 tsp lemon thyme = 1 tsp oregano + 1/2 tsp lemon zest

Oregano provides similar earthy qualities while lemon zest adds the citrus note

Best for:

roasted vegetablesmarinadessaucesMediterranean dishes

Similar earthy flavor with citrus brightness

Marjoram + Lemon Zest

1 tsp lemon thyme = 1 tsp marjoram + 1/2 tsp lemon zest

Marjoram offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with lemon zest

Best for:

roasted vegetablesmarinadessaucessalads

Slightly sweeter than thyme, excellent in delicate dishes

Lemon Balm

1:1

Lemon balm provides natural lemon flavor with herbal notes

Best for:

saladsdessertsbeverageslight sauces

Natural lemon flavor, more delicate than lemon thyme

Lemongrass + Thyme

1 tsp lemon thyme = 1/2 tsp lemongrass + 1/2 tsp thyme

Lemongrass provides intense citrus flavor while thyme adds the earthy note

Best for:

Asian marinadessoupsstir-friescurries

More intense citrus flavor, excellent in Asian-inspired dishes

Lemon Verbena

1:1

Lemon verbena provides intense lemon flavor with floral notes

Best for:

dessertsbeverageslight saucessalads

Intense lemon flavor, more floral than lemon thyme

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Lemon thyme provides both earthy and citrus flavors, so substitutes should include both elements
  • 💡Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus flavor in substitutes
  • 💡Add lemon zest towards the end of cooking to preserve its bright flavor
  • 💡Lemon thyme works well in both savory and sweet dishes
  • 💡Store fresh lemon thyme in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towel
  • 💡Use lemon thyme sprigs as garnish for finished dishes

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for lemon thyme in roasted vegetables?

For roasted vegetables, regular thyme with lemon zest works best. Use 1 teaspoon thyme plus 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest per teaspoon of lemon thyme.

Can I use oregano instead of lemon thyme?

Yes, oregano can substitute for lemon thyme, but add lemon zest to get the citrus flavor. Use 1 teaspoon oregano plus 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest.

What's the difference between lemon thyme and regular thyme?

Lemon thyme has a natural citrus flavor in addition to the earthy thyme flavor, while regular thyme only has the earthy flavor.

Can I use lemon balm instead of lemon thyme?

Yes, lemon balm can work as a substitute, though it's more delicate and floral than lemon thyme. It's best in light dishes and desserts.

What's the best substitute for lemon thyme in marinades?

For marinades, regular thyme with lemon zest works best. You can also use oregano with lemon zest for a slightly different flavor profile.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for lemon thyme including regular thyme with lemon zest, oregano with lemon, and marjoram with lemon. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for successful substitution.