Lemon Lovers—Lightened Up

For our recent Lemon Lovers contest, readers proved that they are sweet on citrus by submitting more than 2,600 recipes! In addition to the prize-winners in the April/May magazine, you’ll want to try these lightened-up lemon favorites:

Roasted Lemon Chicken
This gorgeous herb-rubbed chicken is so moist and tender that you’ll want to serve it for special occasions as well as family suppers. Margaret Wilson of Hemet, California shared the succulent entree.

No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake
This dazzling dessert is a dieter’s delight. A light and refreshing alternative to classic cheesecake, the slim sweet calls for gelatin and lower-fat cheeses. Eva Wright, who sent the recipe from Grant, Alabama, recommends, "Vary the gelatin and pie filling flavors to suit your family’s taste."

Make-Ahead Lemon Bombe
"My neighbor gave me the recipe for this refreshing dessert, but it was made with sugar and lots of whipped cream. I lightened it up for my diabetic husband, and it’s difficult to taste the difference," assures Nadine Johnson of Clackamas, Oregon.

Lemon Carrots and Rutabaga
Bernice Larsen of Gretna, Nebraska notes, "Ever since I found this recipe in a newspaper, it’s become a side dish staple at my house. It’s colorful and tasty—and special enough to serve to company."

Lemon Artichoke Romaine Salad
"I created this dish when I was trying to duplicate a very lemony Caesar salad," recalls Kathleen Law of Pullman, Washington. "I think my version is not only delicious but more healthful, too!"

Refreshing Lemon-Lime Drink
Here is a lighter version of the famous margarita—without the alcohol! It goes very well with Mexican dishes or as a cool summertime drink in the shade. —Lisa Castillo of Bourbonnais, Illinois

Lemon Raspberry-Filled Cake
This attractive layer cake tastes as good as it looks. It’s special enough for company…but you’ll have to convince your guests it’s light! —Heidi Scott of Appleton, Wisconsin

Lemon Roasted Potatoes
Delicious with almost any meat or fish entree, these crispy potatoes from Mitzi Sentiff in Alexandria, Virginia are really something special. "Tangy lemon permeates the potatoes and adds marvelous flavor," Mitzi promises.

Pink Lemonade Dip
"I was experimenting with a guilt-free fruit dip and came up with this quick and easy one," relates Judi Laskovics of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. "It’s great with strawberries and nectarines."