Pucker up because we’re going to get the squeeze on lemons! Don’t be deterred from the sour taste of lemons. These tart fruits are so useful in many ways. Eating them, smelling them, decorating with them…lemons bring zest to my life!
Why did the lemon go to the doctor? Because it was feeling a little sour.
When life brings your lemons…celebrate! Lemons are one of those wonderful foods that give us life sustaining support. They contain a high level of vitamin C, which is a critical vitamin our bodies need to support and form healthy bones, cartilage, skin, and blood vessels. The juice of one lemon will provide about half of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Lemons may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing various conditions, including some cancers, heart disease and may even aid in diabetes treatment. It can help with the iron absorption. It’s a natural antioxidant which helps our immune systems. That’s why when I feel the tickle of a cold coming, I find ways to increase my vitamin C. My favorite throat-soother is to sip on lemon juice, honey and hot water. My daughter adds a healthy squeeze of lemon to her morning glass of water every day. (She’s so smart!)
There are zillions (not really an exaggeration!) of recipes using lemon to enhance the flavor of a dish. While I often think of lemons with fish, there are so many other delightful recipes such as pastas, chicken, pork and more. Don’t forget desserts and drinks!
Why was the lemon sad? Because it was feeling juiceless.
Zingy Tips:
Choose lemons that are firm, heavy and have a bright color. Avoid those that are too green or too soft.- Clean lemons even if you aren’t using the rind.
- Store lemons for up to a month in the refrigerator.
- Lemons can be frozen whole, sliced or juiced and will be good for up to four months. Clean well first and then store in an airtight container. To thaw a whole lemon, soak in warm water for about 15 seconds. Fortunately, the vitamin C in the lemons will not be lost by freezing.
- Sprinkling lemon juice on cut fruits like apples, bananas or peaches can prevent them from turning brown.
- An average lemon holds three tablespoons of juice.
- Zest first before cutting to get the most from your lemon.
- Avoid the bitter pith (white part of the rind.)
- If you don’t have a zester (fine grater or rasp) you can use a sharp paring knife to mince the rind.
- For juicing, to get the most juice, roll a room-temperature lemon on a cutting board with your palm to loosen the fibers before cutting.
- For wedges, cut from each end. Then, stand the lemon upright, cut it into quarters, and slice each wedge in half lengthwise.
- For twists, cut the lemon in half widthwise and slice off a quarter-inch thick round. Make a cut down the center, remove the pulp, then twist the rind.
I like my lemonade how I like my jokes – fresh and squeezed.
The Best Refresher
Natural Cleaner: Soak lemon peels in vinegar for a week or two and then mix 50/50 with water. The acid in lemons is antibacterial and antiseptic, and it acts as a natural bleach.- Magically Clean Microwave: Place a few lemon peels in a bowl of water and microwave for five minutes. Remove the bowl and easily wipe clean.
- Smelly Garbage Disposal No More: Toss used up lemons down the disposal to clean and refresh.
- Coffee Pot Sparkler: Put a few lemon peels, two tablespoons of salt and two cups of ice inside a cool coffee pot. Swirl the mixture around to remove any residue.
- Air Freshener: Simmer citrus peels for a delightful scent. Add other herbs and spices like cinnamon, mint or cardamon to create a favorite fragrance.
- Bathe In Luxury: Add peels to bath water for a fragrant and exhilarating treat.
- Softening Face Wash: Mix one zested lemon peel with half a cup of sugar and slowly add in olive oil until a paste forms. Gently use on face to exfoliate skin.
- Bug Deterrent: Rub peels of lemons on skin as a natural deterrent to bugs.
- Flavorful Oil: Make a special olive oil infused with lemon flavor. Add three tablespoons of lemon zest to a cup of oil. You can also add thinly sliced peels. Store the mixture in a glass jar for up to two weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and use for added flavor in fish and chicken recipes or for salad dressing.
Why was the lemon invited to the party? Because it was always a little sweet and a little sour.
Bright Decor
Garnish a Plate: Wedges or twists of lemon rind add distinct and pleasing color.
Easy Centerpiece: Hide your stems by lining a glass vessel with lemon slices and then place flower stems in the middle.
Place Card Holder: It’s fun and pretty to use something interesting like a lemon to hold a place card. It’s as easy as attaching a card to a toothpick and sticking that in the lemon. Be even more crafty and make your card in the shape of a leaf!
Display Happy Vibes: Quick…guests are coming over…you don’t even need flowers to create a centerpiece. Lemons add a squeeze of color to a room. After your guests leave, freeze the extra lemons for future use.
What do you give an injured lemon? Lemon-Aid!
Fun Fact: Egyptians once believed that eating lemons offered protection from several forms of poison.
Zangy Lemon Recipes
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So much zesty flavor in this dish!
If life gives you lemons, ask for tequila and salt!
Sunshine in a bar!