As the temperature rises and summer officially sets in, it’s time to refresh our palates with a burst of sweet and tangy flavors. One fruit that shines brightly during this season is the lychee, with its delicate white flesh and translucent skin. Native to China, lychees have been a staple in many Asian cuisines for centuries, but their unique flavor profile has also made them a favorite among chefs around the world. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your cocktails or create a light and refreshing dessert, lychees are an excellent choice.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 refreshing lychee recipes that will elevate your summer cooking game. From savory stir-fries to sweet treats, each recipe showcases the versatility of this exotic fruit. So, get ready to experience the sweet and tangy taste of summer with our collection of lychee recipes!
Lychee and Coconut Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of lychees with the richness of coconut, all wrapped up in a silky panna cotta. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup pureed lychees (canned or fresh)
– Fresh lychee slices and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and pureed lychees.
3. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh lychee slices and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation) + refrigeration time
Lychee Mojito Cocktail
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this cocktail combines the sweet and tangy flavors of lychees with the invigorating zing of mint. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz lychee puree
– Handful of ice
– Sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Lychee fruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and lychee puree to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Fill a highball glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
5. Top with soda water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lychee fruit slice.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Lychee Sorbet with Mint
This sweet and tangy sorbet is the perfect treat for warm weather. The combination of juicy lychees, fresh mint, and a touch of sugar creates a unique and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lychee fruit, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the lychees with the sugar and water until smooth.
2. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and lemon juice.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including churning time)
Lychee and Mango Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweet and tangy flavors of lychees with the juicy sweetness of mango, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lychees, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups diced ripe mango
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lychees and mango.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Lychee Rosewater Jelly
This sweet and fragrant jelly combines the juicy flavor of lychees with the delicate aroma of rosewater, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lychees, peeled and pitted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lychees, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard solids.
3. Add rosewater and powdered pectin to the juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until jelly sets.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar. Refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of jelly
Lychee and Basil Lemonade
This sweet and tangy drink combines the juiciness of lychees with the brightness of basil, perfect for hot summer days. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be sipping this unique lemonade in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup lychee juice (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add water and stir to combine.
3. Stir in lychee juice and chopped basil leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just chill and serve!)
Lychee Chicken Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory dish combines the juicy flavor of lychees with succulent chicken, all in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup lychee fruit, chopped
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, and chopped lychees.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lychee and Passion Fruit Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the luscious flavors of lychees and passion fruit, creating a unique dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh lychees, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup fresh passion fruit, scooped out and pulp removed
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
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. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange lychees and passion fruit pulp on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Mix sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Beat in eggs and heavy cream until smooth. Pour mixture over lychees and passion fruit.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lychee and Ginger Iced Tea
Escape the heat with this exotic and invigorating iced tea infused with the sweetness of lychees and the spiciness of ginger. This perfect blend is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 cups fresh lychee juice (or 2 cups canned lychee syrup)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea or 1 tea bag
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the sliced ginger and reduce heat to low; simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the ginger from the water and discard the ginger.
4. Add the lychee juice (or canned syrup) and black tea (or tea bag) to the pot.
5. Stir well, then remove from heat.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Strain the tea again, if desired, and sweeten with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Lychee and Avocado Smoothie
Combine the sweetness of lychees with the creaminess of avocados to create a refreshing and nutritious smoothie. This tropical blend is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup fresh lychee fruit, drained and chopped
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine avocado, lychee, banana, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Greek yogurt and almond milk. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Optional: add ice cubes for a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lychee and Lime Cheesecake
This Lychee and Lime Cheesecake combines the sweetness of lychees with the brightness of lime, creating a unique and refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup lychee puree
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, lychee puree, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lychee and Shrimp Ceviche
Experience the unique fusion of Asian flavors with this refreshing Lychee and Shrimp Ceviche. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh lychees, pitted
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lychees, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Lychee and Coconut Rice Pudding
This creamy rice pudding gets a tropical twist with the addition of lychees and toasted coconut flakes. Perfect as a warm-weather dessert or a unique brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 3 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup diced fresh lychees
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and cardamom.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 18-20 minutes or until pudding thickens.
3. Stir in diced lychees and toasted coconut flakes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lychee and Raspberry Parfait
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this refreshing Lychee and Raspberry Parfait! Layers of sweet lychees, tart raspberries, and creamy yogurt come together for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup canned lychees in syrup, drained and chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped lychees and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the raspberries, lychee mixture, and Greek yogurt in a tall glass or parfait dish.
3. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
4. If using granola, sprinkle it over the top layer.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None!
Lychee and Honey Glazed Salmon
This Lychee and Honey Glazed Salmon recipe combines the richness of honey with the subtle flavor of lychees, resulting in a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup lychee juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Fresh lychees, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lychee juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sliced lychees, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lychee and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Experience the exotic flavors of Asia with this refreshing ice cream recipe, featuring sweet lychees and creamy vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lychee puree (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup chopped vanilla bean (split lengthwise)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and lychee puree. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an ice cream maker. Discard the solids.
4. Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until the desired consistency is reached (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in chopped vanilla bean during the last 2 minutes of churning.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Lychee and Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional gazpacho. This sweet and savory soup is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups lychees, peeled and pitted
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lychees, cucumber, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and olive oil. Blend until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including blending time)
Lychee and Almond Macarons
A delicate fusion of Asian flavors and French patisserie, these lychee and almond macarons are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) lychee puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
– Sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add lychee puree, salt, and food coloring (if using) to the egg mixture. Fold gently until combined.
5. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture and fold until smooth.
6. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
7. Allow macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour to form a skin.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lychee and Lemongrass Soup
This creamy and fragrant soup is perfect for warm weather, combining the sweetness of lychees with the citrusy zing of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 can lychees in syrup (drained)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lychees, lemongrass, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Remove lemongrass stalks and puree soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender.
3. Return soup to the pot, add cream and honey. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lychee and Pistachio Baklava
This sweet and savory twist on traditional baklava combines the juicy flavor of lychees with the crunch of pistachios, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1/4 cup of lychee fruit, diced
– 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, honey, and orange blossom water.
4. Layer phyllo dough, pistachios, and lychee mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the summer heat with these refreshing lychee recipes! From sweet treats like Lychee and Coconut Panna Cotta and Lychee Rosewater Jelly, to savory dishes like Lychee Chicken Stir-Fry and Lychee and Honey Glazed Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, cool down with drinks like Lychee Mojito Cocktail and Lychee and Ginger Iced Tea. And don’t forget to try your hand at desserts like Lychee and Mango Salad, Lychee and Lime Cheesecake, and more! With 20 recipes in total, you’ll never be stuck for something new to make.
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