Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Zest and juice the lemon: Use a fine grater or microplane to zest the lemon, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith. After zesting, cut the lemon in half and juice it.
- Chop the garlic: Finely chop the garlic cloves, ensuring they are evenly minced.
- Pick the rosemary leaves: Strip the leaves from the rosemary sprigs and give them a rough chop.
2. Heat the Pan:
- Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get hot for about a minute before adding any ingredients. This ensures even cooking and helps to release the aromatic oils from the rosemary.
3. Infuse the Aromatics:
- Add olive oil to the pan: Pour the olive oil into the hot pan, swirling it to coat the surface.
- Add the rosemary and garlic: Immediately add the chopped rosemary and garlic to the pan. Stir quickly to prevent the garlic from burning. You should hear a gentle sizzle as the ingredients hit the oil. Cook for about 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant and the rosemary has released its aroma.
4. Add the Lemon:
- Zest and juice: Sprinkle the lemon zest into the pan, stirring to combine with the garlic and rosemary. The zest will release its oils into the hot oil, creating a wonderfully aromatic base. After a few seconds, add the lemon juice, allowing it to bubble and reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
5. Cook the Protein:
- Season the protein: Season your chosen protein (chicken, fish, or tofu) with sea salt, black pepper, and, if using, red pepper flakes.
- Cook in the aromatic oil: Add the protein to the pan, ensuring it makes contact with the hot oil. Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes (depending on the thickness) until golden brown and cooked through. If using butter, add it in the last minute of cooking, basting the protein with the melted butter and pan juices for added richness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the dish: Remove the protein from the pan and place it on a serving dish. Spoon any remaining pan sauce over the top, garnishing with a few fresh rosemary leaves and a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Pairing Suggestions:
- Vegetables: This aromatic protein pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
- Grains: Serve alongside a simple grain like quinoa, couscous, or a light lemon risotto to soak up the delicious pan sauce.
This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something delicious but don’t have much time to spare. The combination of rosemary and lemon creates a vibrant, aromatic dish that’s sure to impress, all in just 60 seconds of cooking. Enjoy your meal!
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