Lemon Balm Sorbet in Lemon Cups

a crowd-pleasing treat, perfect for alfresco meals

A few summers back, I had the joy of hosting a sweet little luncheon at my home in Sebastopol with Pineapple Collaborative and winemaker Martha Stoumen. The table was filled with vibrant, creative women from the Bay Area food world, and it truly felt like a gift to cook for such an inspiring group.

In the whirlwind of moving out of my cozy cottage and heading up to Oregon to teach, I somehow never got around to sharing the dessert I made that day—a simple yet stunning treat that ended up being a total crowd-pleaser.

Recently, while scrolling through old photos, I stumbled across a snapshot of it and was instantly transported back to that sunny afternoon. It reminded me just how perfect this dessert is for summer—easy to throw together, endlessly adaptable, and bursting with seasonal goodness.

To keep with the “lemony” vibe of the menu, I infused the sorbet base with fresh lemon balm, which grows without abandon this time of year. You can keep it simple or play around with herbal additions depending on what you have on hand or growing nearby. Summer herbs like lemon verbena, chamomile, or lavender come to mind as good additions if you need more inspiration.

To complement the tartness of the lemon cups, I served them with Amaretti Cookies, which are another easy dessert idea that you can make ahead of time.

It’s one of those recipes that looks impressive but comes together with very little fuss—the kind of dessert meant to be enjoyed outdoors, surrounded by friends, with the scent of fragrant herbs in the air.

Photo on the left by Anna Schneider

Lemon balm is one of those herbs I find myself reaching for as soon as spring arrives and the sun starts to linger a little longer. Its bright, lemony scent and flavor make it a favorite for both kids and grown-ups alike, and it’s not just tasty.

It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nourishing, feel-good herb to keep close. On those hot days when you’re feeling frayed or in need of a gentle reset, lemon balm offers a refreshing, cooling presence that can help take the edge off.

As a member of the mint family, it grows abundantly, which makes it perfect for harvesting often and drying for later. There’s something so comforting about plants that come back strong and generous year after year; they remind us of the natural abundance that’s always available, especially during the lushness of summer.

When life feels like too much—whether you’re stretched thin, overcommitted, or just plain worn out—lemon balm has a way of softening things. It doesn’t knock you out or make you drowsy; rather, it gently soothes the nervous system, offering it a chance to rest from being constantly on high alert. That alone can bring immense relief.