Lemons are small to medium fruits, and sometimes have an ovate to oblong shape with pointed, curved ends. The rind, also known as the peel, is generally pale to bright yellow and bears many small, fragrant oil glands, creating a textured and glossy, finely pitted surface. Underneath the rind, there is a semi-thin, white pith with a spongy, cotton-like consistency, encasing 8 to 11 segments of soft, tender flesh. The pale-yellow flesh is comprised of translucent sacs filled with juice and pulp and are known for their complex, bright, and acidic flavors with floral, sweet-tart, and tangy undertones.

Health Benefits

Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids, which are antioxidants which help remove free radicals that can damage cells from the body.  These nutrients can help prevent diseases and boost health and wellbeing.  They are an excellent source of fiber to stimulate the digestive tract and vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, boost collagen production within the skin, and reduce inflammation. The fruits are also a good source of potassium, copper, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Usage

Lemons are versatile fruits utilized as a flavoring in both raw and cooked, sweet and savory applications. The fruits can be sliced and used as an edible garnish with roasted meats, tacos, or wedged on the side of beverages, and the slices can be squeezed as a finishing element. They can also be juiced and used to cut through rich flavors in salad dressings, dips, marinades, and sauces, or it can be used to brighten soups, whipped cream, and rich, cheesy pasta dishes. Beyond savory preparations, Lemons are used as a flavoring for baked goods, including pies, cakes, muffins, and tarts, or the juice is mixed into puddings, icings, sherbet, bars, marmalades, and curds.  In addition to the juice, the peel can be zested for cookies, salads, grain bowls, or meats, or it can be sliced and candied as a sweet dessert.  

Storage

Whole, unwashed Lemons will keep for a couple of days at room temperature and 1 to 2 weeks when stored in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. Freshly squeezed juice will also last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.