27 Diabetic-Friendly Lemon Recipes

Updated on Aug. 05, 2023

Pucker up to our best lemon recipes that deliver a bright burst of citrus in every bite. Each one fits within the guidelines of a diabetic diet—and the entire family will enjoy them!

1/27

Lemon-Pepper Tilapia with Mushrooms

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My husband and I are trying to add more fish and healthy entrees to our diet and this one makes it easy. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for hectic weeknights. Not sure what to make for dinner tonight? Try one of these delicious low-carb entrees. —Donna McDonald, Lake Elsinore, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 fillet: 216 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 173mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
2/27

Crunchy Lemon-Pesto Garden Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I love using vegetables straight from the garden in preparing this salad. If I pick the squash and cucumbers early enough, their skins are so tender that there’s no need to remove them! Best of all, it’s easily adaptable—any fresh veggie from the garden can be swapped in with delicious results! Psst! Here are more diabetic-friendly recipes you can make in 30 minutes or less! —Carmell Childs, Clawson, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 159 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
3/27

Lemon Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: As the family cook, I appreciate how easy this is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, this salad never gets boring. One of my favorite variations is to substitute diced fresh mango for the cranberries, cilantro for the parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 218 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 370mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
4/27

Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 145 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 76mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 fat, 1 fruit.
5/27

Lemon-Dijon Pork Sheet-Pan Supper

Total Time 40 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Most nights I need something that I can get on the table with minimal effort and delicious results. This sheet-pan supper has become an all-time favorite, not only because of its bright flavors but also because of its speedy cleanup time. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop with 1-1/4 cups vegetables: 516 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 505mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 9g fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 5 lean meat, 3 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
6/27

Fresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt Dip

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 12 servings (1-1/2 cups dip)
From the Recipe Creator: Artichokes are at their best when you prepare them simply, without a lot of fuss or seasonings to overdress them. Many people dip the petals in melted butter or mayonnaise, but I think you'll love my tangy lemon-yogurt dip. —Jill Haapaniemi, Brooklyn, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 artichoke with 2 tablespoons dip: 81 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 99mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
7/27

Baked Lemon Haddock

Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After testing out a ton of haddock recipes, I’ve decided this baked version is the best. The mix of crunchy topping and lemon is just delicious. —Jean Ann Perkins, Newburyport, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 4 ounces cooked fish: 269 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 446mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
8/27

Lemon Chia Seed Parfaits

Total Time 15 min
Servings 4 servings.
From the Recipe Creator: These bright and tangy parfaits start the day on a healthy note, but they're also sweet enough to double as dessert. —Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 214 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 48mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (26g sugars, 5g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 1/2 reduced-fat milk.
9/27

Lemon Artichoke Romaine Salad

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I created this dish when I was trying to duplicate a very lemony Caesar salad. I think my version is not only delicious but more healthful, too! —Kathy Armstrong, Post Falls, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups: 105 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
10/27

Lemony Mushroom-Orzo Soup for Two

Total Time 30 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a versatile soup that works as an appetizer or as a side for a sandwich lunch. It’s loaded with mushrooms and orzo pasta—and lemon livens up its mild flavor.—Edrie O’Brien, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 191 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 437mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
11/27

Lemon-Parmesan Broiled Asparagus

Total Time 15 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These special spears are packed with flavor, thanks to the lemon-garlic dressing they're tossed in before roasting. It's a simple, quick side that goes with almost anything. —Tina Repak, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 156 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 309mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
12/27

Air-Fryer Cauliflower

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 161 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
13/27

Frozen Watermelon Lemon Cream Tarts

Total Time 20 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These fruit tarts are so refreshing on a hot summer day! They are extremely healthy and convenient, and just a few ingredients means they're easy to make, too. —Bethany DiCarlo, Harleysville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 tart: 55 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 17mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
14/27

Lemon & Garlic New Potatoes

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This is a simplified version of a dish my Costa Rican host sister used to make when I was in the Peace Corps. It has become a favorite side dish at my house. —Katie Bartle, Parkville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 166 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
15/27

Lemon-Pepper Broccoli

Total Time 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Fresh green broccoli turns tangy and tasty when roasted with lemon juice and pepper. A sprinkle of almonds adds crunch. —Liz Bellville, Jacksonville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 84 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 103mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
16/27

Lemon Feta Chicken

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This bright, Greek-inspired chicken has only five ingredients—it’s a busy-day lifesaver! My husband and I prepare the dish often, and it’s a hit every time. —Ann Cain, Morrill, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 chicken breast half: 143 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 122mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
17/27

Roasted Green Beans with Lemon & Walnuts

Total Time 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I first tasted roasted green beans in a Chinese restaurant and fell in love with the texture and flavor. This is my Americanized version and it's always a big hit at our holiday table. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 119 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
18/27

Lemon Salmon with Basil

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: At our house we opt for healthy foods, and this lemony salmon with basil is a knockout in the good-for-you category. We have it with asparagus or zucchini. —Shanna Belz, Prineville, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1 salmon fillet: 294 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
19/27

Lemon Couscous with Broccoli

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I combined two recipes to create this side with broccoli and pasta. The splash of lemon adds nice flavor. Instead of toasted almonds, you could also sprinkle servings with grated Parmesan cheese. —Beth Dauenhauer, Pueblo, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 2/3 cup: 115 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 328mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
20/27

Turkey Cutlets in Lemon Wine Sauce

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After I ate something like this at a local Italian restaurant, I figured out how to make it at home for my family. Now I serve it a lot since it's so quick to make—and they're so happy I do. —Kathie Wilson, Warrenton, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 turkey cutlet with 2 tablespoons sauce: 145 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
21/27

Italian Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Total Time 20 min
Servings 8 servings (1/2 cup vinaigrette)
From the Recipe Creator: For an Italian twist on salad, I mix greens with red onion, mushrooms, olives, pepperoncini, lemon juice and Italian seasoning. Add tomatoes and carrots if you'd like. —Deborah Loop, Clinton Township, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 109 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 343mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
22/27

Lemon-Garlic Pork Chops

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My son James created these zesty chops spiced with paprika and cayenne. He keeps the spice rub in a jar to use with chops or chicken. —Molly Seidel, Edgewood, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop: 233 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat.
23/27

Spicy Lemon Chicken Kabobs

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When I see Meyer lemons in the store, I know it must be spring. I like using them for these easy chicken kabobs, but regular grilled lemons still add the signature smoky tang. —Terri Crandall, Gardnerville, Nevada
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 182 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 55mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
24/27

Lemon Roasted Fingerlings and Brussels Sprouts

Total Time 35 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My trick to roasting veggies is to choose ones that cook in the same amount of time. Other combinations to try? Cauliflower florets with baby carrots or okra with cherry tomatoes. —Courtney Gaylord, Columbus, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 167 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
25/27

Lemon Baked Cod

Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After trying a few baked cod recipes, this was the first fish recipe that got two thumbs up from my picky meat-only eaters. The tangy lemon gives the cod fish some oomph. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 fillet: 232 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 fat, 1/2 starch.
26/27

Lemon-Apricot Fruit Pops

Total Time 15 min
Servings 6 pops
From the Recipe Creator: With just 31 calories, 4 teaspoons of sugar total and lots of vitamin C, this is one light and refreshing summer dessert everyone can find room for! —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 pop: 31 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fruit.
27/27

Lemon Basil Chicken

Total Time 1 hour 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: For Sunday dinner or any time, this tender, fragrant chicken is special. —;Marguerite Marshall, Carencro, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 282 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 299mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein.