Out of Lemon thyme, one case
Lemon thyme substitute
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular thyme + lemon zest
Per 1 tsp lemon thyme
1 tsp regular thyme + ½ tsp lemon zest
The best substitutes for lemon thyme are regular thyme with lemon zest (1:1 thyme + ½ tsp lemon zest), oregano with lemon (1:1 oregano + ½ tsp lemon zest), or marjoram with lemon (1:1 marjoram + ½ tsp lemon zest).
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- roasted vegetables
One casethe full thyme card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of 1 tsp lemon thyme | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular thyme + lemon zestroasted vegetables | 1 tsp regular thyme + ½ tsp lemon zestWorks | Works |
| 2 | Oregano + lemon zestroasted vegetables | 1 tsp oregano + ½ tsp lemon zestWorks | Works |
| 3 | Marjoram + lemon zestroasted vegetables | 1 tsp marjoram + ½ tsp lemon zestWorks | Works |
| 4 | Lemon balmsalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Lemongrass + thymeAsian marinades | ½ tsp lemongrass + ½ tsp thymeYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Lemon verbenadesserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Regular thyme + lemon zest
similar taste and texture
This combination provides the same earthy thyme flavor with the bright citrus note of lemon thyme
- Best for
- roasted vegetables, marinades, sauces, salads
Most authentic substitute, provides both thyme and citrus flavors.
Oregano + lemon zest
similar taste and texture
Oregano provides similar earthy qualities while lemon zest adds the citrus note
- Best for
- roasted vegetables, marinades, sauces, Mediterranean dishes
Similar earthy flavor with citrus brightness.
Marjoram + lemon zest
similar taste and texture
Marjoram offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with lemon zest
- Best for
- roasted vegetables, marinades, sauces, salads
Slightly sweeter than thyme, excellent in delicate dishes.
Lemon balm
different taste, similar texture
Lemon balm provides natural lemon flavor with herbal notes
- Best for
- salads, desserts, beverages, light sauces
Natural lemon flavor, more delicate than lemon thyme.
Lemongrass + thyme
different taste and texture
Lemongrass provides intense citrus flavor while thyme adds the earthy note
- Best for
- Asian marinades, soups, stir-fries, curries
More intense citrus flavor, excellent in Asian-inspired dishes.
Lemon verbena
different taste, similar texture
Lemon verbena provides intense lemon flavor with floral notes
- Best for
- desserts, beverages, light sauces, salads
Intense lemon flavor, more floral than lemon thyme.
How it behaves in this recipe
Lemon thyme is prized for its unique combination of earthy thyme flavor and bright citrus notes. When substituting, it's important to include both the herbal and citrus elements to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Tips for substituting lemon thyme
6 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
Notes on lemon thyme
- Use lemon thyme sprigs as garnish for finished dishes
- Make lemon thyme-infused oil for drizzling over vegetables
- Create lemon thyme butter for finishing grilled meats
- Use lemon thyme in compound butters for bread
Questions
5 questionsWhat'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 ½ 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 ½ 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.