Lemon Pepper Substitute: Get the Most Out of Your Seasoning!

There are times when we don’t have access to certain ingredients and have to come up with creative substitutes and since lemon pepper is a versatile addition to many dishes, there are plenty of options out there if you’re looking for an alternative. Choose your preferred lemon pepper substitute.

Jump to:

• What is Lemon Pepper Seasoning?
• List of Best Lemon Pepper Substitutes
• 1. Lemon Thyme
• 2. Lemon Zest
• 3. Lemon Curry Powder
• 4. Shichimi Togarashi
• 5. Garlic Pepper
• 6. Orange Pepper seasoning
• 7. Lemon Juice
• People Also Ask [FAQs]
• Wrap Up: Lemon Pepper Substitute
• Recipe

What is Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

Lemon pepper seasoning has a unique combination of flavors that work together in perfect harmony. On its own, the spice from the black pepper is quite intense but when paired with the tartness of the lemon, it creates a balanced flavor profile that will make any dish sing.

It pairs particularly well with seafood dishes like grilled salmon or steamed mussels [you must try our super easy baked panko-crusted cod!] and can also be used as a finishing touch to salads or roasted vegetables.

List of Best Lemon Pepper Substitutes

If you’re not able to find lemon pepper seasoning for whatever reason, there are several substitutes that will give your meals an equally delicious flavor boost.

1. Lemon Thyme

If you love the combination of citrusy and savory flavors, then lemon thyme is perfect for you. It has the same lemony taste as lemon pepper seasoning but also an added earthiness from the thyme.

Lemon thyme is great in soups, salads, fish dishes, or even roasted vegetables. You can use it just as you would use lemon pepper seasoning—sprinkle it over whatever dish you’re making right before serving.

2. Lemon Zest

The zest of citrus fruit can be used as a substitute for lemon pepper seasoning—it offers a similar flavor without any added salt or sugar.

The best way to use this substitute is to combine it with other herbs and spices like oregano, basil, or garlic powder. This will give the dish some more depth of flavor while still getting that nice citrusy taste from the zest. Great on top of this zucchini and feta pasta!

3. Lemon Curry Powder

This one might sound a little strange but it works surprisingly well! Lemon curry powder combines the traditional spices found in curry powder with a hint of citrus flavor from the lemons.

It packs quite a punch so I recommend starting out small when using this substitute—just a pinch or two should do the trick! You can use it to make curries, marinades for meat dishes, or even sprinkle over popcorn for an interesting twist on movie night snacks!

4. Shichimi Togarashi

This Japanese spice blend is one of my favorite alternatives to lemon pepper. It contains seven ingredients—including chili pepper flakes, sesame seeds, orange peel, ground ginger, seaweed flakes, poppy seed, and hemp seed—which combine to create an incredibly flavorful combination that has a bit of heat but isn't overly spicy.

This blend works particularly well with fish or seafood dishes since it adds a hint of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the dish. 

5. Garlic Pepper

This seasoning blend combines two pantry staples—garlic powder and black pepper—into one powerful punch.

Unlike traditional garlic powder, garlic pepper also contains coarsely ground peppers which give it an extra kick that you won't find with regular garlic powder alone. This blend works great on roasted veggies, grilled meats, and all kinds of other savory dishes that could use a little extra oomph! 

6. Orange Pepper seasoning

If you're looking for something fruity yet still savory, then this blend may be just what you need! Orange pepper seasoning contains roasted orange peel (obviously), black pepper, salt, and other spices like paprika and onion powder that work together to create a bright citrusy flavor with a hint of heat from the black pepper.

This blend tastes fantastic on salads or grilled fish—you can even add it to desserts like muffins or cakes for an unexpected twist! 

7. Lemon Juice

Finally, there’s always good old-fashioned lemon juice! While not quite as flavorful as other substitutes listed above (or actual lemon pepper mix), using fresh lemon juice can still give your dish that subtle hint of citrus that makes all the difference. Just add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking time—it will really brighten up whatever dish you’re making!

People Also Ask [FAQs]

Wrap Up: Lemon Pepper Substitute

• Experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices until you find the perfect blend for your dish! With these options in mind, it'll be easy to substitute lemon pepper if needed or else you can try to make your own homemade seasoning.
• The finished homemade lemon pepper seasoning is a tasty and cost-effective alternative to store-bought varieties, and with just a few simple steps you can easily create your own special blend of flavors at home. Whether used as a marinade, topping, or rub, this zesty seasoning is sure to add a delicious twist to any dish!

Recipe