Lemon-Buttered Turnips
Bright and tender turnips are tossed with lemon and herbs, making a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with fresh, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel turnips and cut into 1/2-inch cubes or 2 x 1/2-inch sticks.
- Cook, covered, in a small amount of boiling water for 10 to 12 minutes or until crisp-tender.
- Drain.
- Stir in margarine or butter, sliced green onion or snipped parsley, and lemon juice.
- Season to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of margarine. If turnips are not available, you could substitute with parsnips or radishes. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your cubes. Adding a sprinkle of Blackened Seasoning Powder can enhance the dish with a spicy kick. Always taste before seasoning to ensure perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon-buttered turnips make a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted chicken. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or with a light sauce, like a yogurt dressing, to balance the flavors. They also complement dishes like Sweet Rice Balls for a unique meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a little extra butter or margarine until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, though be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon-Buttered Turnips contains roughly 546 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen turnips for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh turnips for optimal texture and flavor. Frozen turnips may become mushy when cooked. If you must use frozen, reduce the boiling time and check for doneness frequently.
How do I know when the turnips are done cooking?
Turnips are done when they are fork-tender but still slightly firm, which typically takes about 10 to 12 minutes of boiling. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on them.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. For a different twist, try adding snipped parsley as suggested, which brightens the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).