Lemon balm is a total staple in home gardens, and for good reason! It brings a bright, delicious scent to your yard and packs some pretty great health benefits, too. In this post, I’m going to show you exactly how to put this versatile herb to work in your kitchen.
Ways to Use Lemon Balm
Yes, lemon balm is 100% edible, and it adds a wonderful zesty kick to so many dishes. Even though it smells and tastes just like lemons, it doesn’t actually have any acidity. This makes it the perfect “secret ingredient” when you want that citrus punch without the sour bite. One quick tip: if you’re adding it to warm meals, wait until right before serving to toss the leaves in. If they cook too long, they’ll lose that signature aroma. It’s also a gorgeous garnish for dressing up desserts!
Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it:
- Paired with fresh fish
- Tossed into light summer salads
- Stirred into homemade jams
- Mixed into creamy yogurt or cheesecake desserts
- Added to marinades and chutneys
And hey, lemon balm isn’t just for eating! Dried leaves make a fantastic base for soothing salves or a calming cup of tea. A warm mug of lemon balm tea is my go-to when I need to de-stress after a long day.
When is the Best Time to Harvest?
To get that peak flavor, timing is everything. You’ll want to harvest your lemon balm a few days *before* it starts to flower; once those blooms appear, the flavor starts to fade. For the best results, try to harvest a couple of days after a good rain (or give it a thorough watering yourself). The sweet spot for picking is early in the morning, right after the dew has evaporated but before the sun gets too hot. Always use a sharp, clean tool when pruning or harvesting to keep the plant healthy.
How to Store Your Harvest
If you’ve got a bumper crop, there are several ways to preserve your lemon balm. If you’re planning on cooking with it later, freezing is your best bet. The freezer locks in all those essential oils and keeps the flavor fresh. On the other hand, air-drying or using a dehydrator/oven is the way to go if you want to use it as a medicinal herb for teas or crafts.
