Lemon Balm Salsa Verde

Salsas are a fantastic way to transform any ‘meh’ meal into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re looking to elevate leftovers or make something fresh, this Lemon Balm Salsa Verde recipe has you covered. We’ve included a mix of herbs below, but feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand. Stash it in the fridge, and the next time you're eyeing those microwave leftovers, you’ll thank yourself!

Ingredients

• 1 cup basil leaves, loosely packed
• 3 tbsp minced chives
• 3 tbsp minced lemon balm leaves
• 1 tbsp minced mint
• Zest of 1 Meyer lemon
• Juice of half Meyer lemon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 small clove garlic (or ½ of a normal clove)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp sumac
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Roughly chop the basil, chives, lemon balm, and mint, then add them to a small mixing bowl.
2. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Grate the garlic into the bowl using a microplane.
4. Mix in the sumac, olive oil, and black pepper to taste.
5. Store your salsa verde in the fridge for up to two weeks. Ready whenever you need a fresh, tangy hit of flavor!

What Makes Lemon Balm So Special?

Lemon balm isn't just a fresh herb to flavor your dishes—it’s also packed with health benefits. Known for its calming properties, it’s great for easing anxiety and promoting better sleep. You can read more about the health benefits of lemon balm in our blog, or start growing your own with our Herb Seed Collection.

Pro Tip: Make It Your Own

This Lemon Balm Salsa Verde is super versatile! Swap out the lemon balm for cilantro, or add a little spice with chili flakes. It's a great way to reduce food waste by using whatever herbs you have available. Plus, it pairs perfectly with grilled veggies, fish, or even as a topping for tacos. Want to take your cooking skills to the next level? Try growing your own herbs with our Culinary Classics Bottle Garden.

Whether you're looking to add more greens to your meals or exploring new flavors in the kitchen, this recipe will help you elevate your cooking game.