Oh, lemon balm! What a delightful little herb, truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered and, even better, picked with your own hands. Imagine a sunny day, somewhere in the picturesque Dutch countryside. You’ve heard whispers of a local ‘pluktuin’ (pick-your-own garden), and you arrive, basket in hand, ready for an adventure.

Stepping into the lemon balm patch is like walking into a cloud of pure, uplifting freshness. The air is alive with a gentle, lemony scent, subtle yet invigorating, a promise of summer encapsulated in every verdant leaf. Whether you’re flying solo, enjoying a moment of mindful connection with nature, or leading a giggling troupe of friends or little ones, the act of picking lemon balm is a simple joy.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about gently plucking those crinkly, heart-shaped leaves, feeling their soft texture, and inhaling their bright aroma. Kids, especially, love the sensory experience – the smell, the feel, and the exciting mission of filling a bag with these green treasures. It’s an outing that engages all senses, creates beautiful memories, and leaves you with a tangible (and delicious!) reward. Forget the hustle and bustle; here, it’s just you, the sunshine, and a bounty of fragrant lemon balm, ready to transform your kitchen.

Bringing the Zesty Magic Home: Ways to Enjoy Your Lemon Balm

Once you’ve returned home, your basket brimming with your verdant harvest, the real fun begins! Lemon balm is an incredibly versatile herb, known for its calming properties and its bright, citrusy, slightly minty flavour.

General Uses:

  • Garnish Guru: Sprinkle fresh, chopped lemon balm over fruit salads, desserts, or even a glass of iced tea for a burst of colour and freshness.
  • Infused Goodness: Add a few sprigs to a bottle of water or sparkling water for a refreshing, subtly flavoured drink. You can also infuse olive oil or vinegar.
  • Aromatherapy Boost: Place a handful of leaves in a small bowl on your bedside table or desk. The gentle aroma is wonderfully soothing and uplifting.

Recipes to Make the Most of Your Lemon Balm

1. Lemon Balm & Berry Burst Fruit Salad

This vibrant salad is a fantastic way to showcase the fresh flavour of lemon balm, complementing the sweetness of summer berries.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries halved, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon balm leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the mixed berries.
  2. Add the finely chopped lemon balm to the berries.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey/maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  4. Pour the dressing over the berries and lemon balm. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately, or chill for a short while to allow the flavours to meld. A perfect light dessert or breakfast addition!

2. Lemon Balm & Pistachio Crusted Chicken

A surprising twist on a classic, the lemon balm adds a wonderful herbaceous freshness to the crunchy crust.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the coating: In a food processor, pulse the pistachios, lemon balm, Parmesan (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until a fine crumb forms. Transfer to a shallow dish.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Lightly dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  3. Coat the chicken: Press the chicken breasts firmly into the lemon balm-pistachio mixture, coating both sides evenly.
  4. Cook: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the crusted chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Serve immediately with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

A Calming Cuppa: Lemon Balm Tea

The ultimate way to unwind after a day of picking or simply to enjoy a moment of peace.

Ingredients:

  • A handful of fresh lemon balm leaves (about 10-15 leaves per cup)
  • Hot water
  • Optional: a slice of lemon, a teaspoon of honey

Instructions:

  1. Gently bruise the lemon balm leaves by lightly crushing them in your hands to release their oils.
  2. Place the bruised leaves in a mug.
  3. Pour hot (but not boiling) water over the leaves.
  4. Steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
  5. Strain the leaves (or leave them in for extra flavour), add a slice of lemon and honey if you like, and sip your way to pure serenity.

Cheers to Freshness: The Lemon Balm Fizz Cocktail

Elevate your happy hour with this vibrant and refreshing concoction!

Ingredients:

  • 5-6 fresh lemon balm leaves
  • 1.5 oz (45ml) gin or vodka (for a mocktail, use 1.5 oz elderflower cordial or skip the alcohol)
  • 0.75 oz (22ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved, then cooled)
  • Sparkling water or soda water, to top
  • Ice
  • Garnish: extra lemon balm sprig and a lemon slice

Instructions:

  1. Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the lemon balm leaves with the simple syrup. You want to release the oils, not tear the leaves to shreds.
  2. Shake: Add the gin/vodka (or elderflower cordial) and fresh lemon juice to the shaker. Fill with ice.
  3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
  4. Strain: Strain the mixture into an ice-filled highball or rocks glass.
  5. Top: Top with sparkling water or soda water.
  6. Garnish: Garnish with a fresh sprig of lemon balm and a lemon slice. Enjoy your zingy, herbaceous delight!

So, next time you’re in the Netherlands, keep an eye out for those charming “pluktuinen.” A trip to pick lemon balm isn’t just about collecting an herb; it’s about embracing a moment of simple pleasure, connecting with nature, and bringing a little zest and tranquility back to your home and table. Veel plezier!