20 Southern Garden and Guns Inspired Recipes

Get ready to fire up your taste buds and bring a little bit of the South into your kitchen! In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that combine the flavors of the garden with the boldness of the gun. From classic comfort foods like smoked brisket and fried chicken to fresh and flavorful dishes like grilled shrimp skewers and garden tarts, these recipes are sure to satisfy any appetite.

In the South, food is often a reflection of the land and the people who live there. That’s why we’ve incorporated fresh herbs and vegetables from the garden into many of these recipes, along with a dash of Southern charm and hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and perfect for any occasion.

So grab your apron, put on some good ol’ country music, and get ready to cook up some deliciousness with our 20 Southern garden and guns inspired recipes!

Smoked Brisket with Garden Herb Rub

Elevate your BBQ game with this tender and flavorful smoked brisket recipe, perfectly seasoned with a homemade garden herb rub.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole brisket (5-6 pounds), trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup garden herb rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwoods like post oak or mesquite)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt

Garden Herb Rub:

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1/2 tablespoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garden herb rub ingredients.
3. Rub the mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 10 hours or overnight.
6. After 10 hours, wrap the brisket tightly with foil and continue smoking for another 2-3 hours or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.

Cooking Time:

– 12-14 hours total cooking time
– 10 hours at 225°F (110°C), then 2-3 hours wrapped in foil

Southern Fried Chicken with Garden Fresh Herbs

Elevate your fried chicken game with this refreshing twist that combines the classic Southern favorite with the bright, herbal flavors of the garden. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a delightful pop of color and a burst of freshness to each bite.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or thyme) for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garden Salsa

Savor the flavor of summer with this simple and refreshing recipe that combines succulent grilled shrimp with a vibrant garden salsa. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Shrimp Skewers:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers

For the Garden Salsa:

– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (such as cherry or grape)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto the shrimp.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine garden salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
6. Serve grilled shrimp skewers with garden salsa spooned over top.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops with Garden Relish

A sweet and savory twist on classic pork chops, this recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the freshness of a garden relish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Garden relish (see below for ingredients)

Garden Relish:

– 1 cup chopped fresh cucumber
– 1 cup chopped fresh bell peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare garden relish by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve pork chops with warm garden relish spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Garden Fresh Tomato and Basil Tart

This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a summer evening, showcasing the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil from your garden.

Ingredients:

– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange tomato slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil and drizzle with olive oil over tomatoes.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese if using.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Southern Style Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hock

A classic Southern dish that’s both hearty and flavorful, this recipe is a staple of soul food cuisine. The smoky richness of the ham hock pairs perfectly with the tender collard greens, making it a comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 1 smoked ham hock
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or tough leaves.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens and smoked ham hock to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover the greens by about an inch.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the greens are tender.

Cooking Time: 1-2 hours

Garden Vegetable Jambalaya

A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the freshness of garden vegetables with the bold spices and herbs of traditional jambalaya.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed garden vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and snap peas)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add garden vegetables, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

A classic summer side dish gets a flavorful boost from fresh herbs and creamy butter.

Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Brush the herb butter mixture onto each ear of corn, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place the ears of corn on the grill, turning every 5 minutes or so, until they’re lightly charred and tender (about 10-12 minutes total).
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Southern Peach Cobbler with Garden Mint

This classic Southern dessert gets a refreshing twist with the addition of garden mint, creating a sweet and tangy combination that’s perfect for warm weather. This peach cobbler is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 2 sprigs of fresh garden mint, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the peaches to release their juice and the mixture to thicken.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and melted butter.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour peach mixture into the pie crust, followed by the cream mixture.
6. Sprinkle chopped mint on top of the cobbler.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Smoked Turkey Breast with Garden Herb Marinade

Elevate your turkey game with this succulent smoked breast, infused with the bright flavors of a garden herb marinade. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey breast in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 4-5 hours

Garden Fresh Cucumber and Onion Salad

A refreshing summer salad that’s perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, onion slices, and garlic.
2. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add lemon juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade

This classic Southern dish combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the crunch of a fried coating and the tanginess of remoulade sauce. A perfect side dish or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated tomato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with remoulade sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Garden Pesto

Elevate your summer grilling game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms with the brightness of garden pesto.

Ingredients:

– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup garden pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the mushrooms with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garden pesto and a pinch of salt.
5. Once the mushrooms are cooked, brush them with the garden pesto mixture.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Southern Style Buttermilk Biscuits with Garden Chives

Classic Southern biscuits just got a fresh twist! These tender, flaky treats are infused with the bright flavor of garden chives for a delightful addition to your breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh garden chives

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and chopped chives.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out dough to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (biscuits, squares, or strips).
8. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garden Fresh Strawberry Shortcake

Sweeten up your summer with this classic dessert featuring fresh strawberries, creamy whipped cream, and tender biscuits.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 6 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Split the shortcake biscuits in half and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Arrange toasted biscuit halves on individual serving plates.
5. Spoon sliced strawberries over the biscuits.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Garden Fresh Strawberry Shortcake!

Smoked Ribs with Garden Spice Rub

Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe for smoked ribs slathered in a fragrant garden spice rub. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup garden spice blend (containing thyme, oregano, basil, and more)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garden spice blend, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Slather the garden spice rub all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Place the ribs in the smoker, bone-side down. Close the lid and let them cook for 4-5 hours or until tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add wood chips to the smoker to infuse a rich, smoky flavor.

Cooking Time: 4-5 hours

Southern Style Grits with Garden Roasted Vegetables

Elevate your breakfast game with this Southern-inspired recipe that combines creamy grits with a medley of roasted garden vegetables. This hearty dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a comforting weekday meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
3. Meanwhile, toss vegetables with butter, salt, pepper, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir cooked grits with chopped parsley (if using). Serve with roasted vegetables.

Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Garden Herb Marinade

Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe featuring a zesty garden herb marinade.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, rosemary, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until well combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken thighs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Garden Fresh Blackberry Pie

This classic blackberry pie recipe showcases the sweetness of fresh blackberries, perfectly balanced with a hint of tartness and a crumbly crust. With its simplicity and flavor, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the blackberry mixture and dot with melted butter.
4. Roll out the remaining pie crust to fit the top of the pie. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam escape.
5. Brush the top crust with beaten egg mixed with milk.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Southern Style Sweet Tea with Garden Mint

Classic sweet tea gets a refreshing boost from the coolness of garden mint. This twist on the traditional Southern favorite is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Luzianne)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh garden mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Bring the quart of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the tea bags and let steep for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
4. Stir in the chopped mint leaves.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the sweet tea over ice cubes and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)

Summary

Get ready to taste the South! This collection of 20 recipes combines the best of garden-fresh flavors with the bold spirit of the American South. From classic comfort foods like Southern Fried Chicken and Grits, to innovative twists on BBQ favorites like Smoked Brisket and Grilled Shrimp Skewers, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a focus on herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables, each recipe is a love letter to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a Southerner at heart or just looking for some tasty inspiration, this article has got you covered!