Lime — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Limes should exhibit a deep green color and a glossy surface, indicating they are ripe and juicy. The skin should be smooth and firm, reflecting their freshness. When lightly squeezed, limes should give slightly, which suggests they are ripe and ready to use.

Avoid limes that are overly hard or have dry, blemished skins, as these are indicators of dehydration or aging. Quality limes should have a strong citrus aroma and provide a burst of tangy flavor, perfect for enhancing drinks and dishes.

To ensure limes stay fresh, store them in a cool, dry area of your refrigerator. Utilizing the crisper drawer can help preserve their texture and taste for up to 3-4 weeks. It's important to keep them dry to avoid mold growth.

Refrain from putting limes in sealed plastic bags, as this can create moisture buildup and result in spoilage. Keep limes away from apples and bananas since these fruits release ethylene gas, which accelerates the ripening and deterioration of limes. Maintain a dry environment for limes and keep them separated from other fruits and vegetables.

Lime can last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature and up to 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. Proper storage in a cool, dry place helps extend their freshness.

Leftover limes can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Squeeze the juice over salads, grilled meats, or seafood for a burst of acidity, or use the zest in baking to add a bright, citrusy flavor to cakes, cookies, or muffins. Limes are also great when used to make lime curd, perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or as a filling for tarts.

Use lime juice to make a simple vinaigrette with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or mix it into a marinade for chicken or fish. If you have a lot of limes, consider making a batch of limeade or using them in a lime sorbet for a refreshing dessert. Limes can also be preserved by slicing them and packing them in salt, then using the preserved limes in Middle Eastern and Mexican dishes. For a quick snack, zest lime over fresh fruit or yogurt for added flavor, or use lime juice in a detox water with mint and cucumber.

Lime is a citrus fruit packed with vitamin C, supporting immune health and promoting skin health by aiding collagen production. It also contains antioxidants that support heart health by reducing oxidative stress and lowering cholesterol. Limes promote digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Additionally, their low-calorie and hydrating properties make them a refreshing addition to meals and beverages.