Lemons and limes

Although lemons and limes are not usually eaten as one would eat an apple or a peach, they are very useful when we want to bring out the flavor of other foods. While both are available throughout the year, lemons are in the peak of their season around May, June and August while limes are at their peak from May through October.

 

Lemons are oval in shape and feature a yellow, texturized outer peel. Like other citrus fruits, their inner flesh is encased in eight to ten segments.  While most lemons are tart, acidic and astringent, they are also surprisingly refreshing.

 

Limes are oval or round in shape having a diameter of one to two inches with green flesh and skin. They can be either sour or sweet depending on the variety; however, sweet limes are not readily available in the United States. Sour limes contain citric acid giving them an acidic and tart taste, while sweet limes lack citric acid and are sweeter in flavor.

 

In addition to their unique phytonutrient properties, lemons and limes are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants in nature. Vitamin C is one of the main antioxidants found in food and the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body.  Lemon-juice is a powerful antibacterial. It has been proved by experiments that the bacteria of malaria, cholera, diphtheria, typhoid and other deadly diseases are destroyed in lemon-juice.  Because of the acicidic content in lemon and lime juices, it should be diluted with water before drinking.  This acid is damaging to tooth enamel.

Fresh Lemon-Lime Sorbet

2 c. sugar

2 c. water

3/4 c. freshly squeezed lime juice

3/4 c. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 T. lemon (or lime) zest

Combine sugar amd water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.  Reduce heat to low, and simmer without stirring until the sugar has dissolved.  Cool completely.  When cool, add lemon and lime juice and zest; stir to combine.  Turn your ice cream maker to "on".  Pour into the maker and let churn for about 25-30 min.  Let ripen in the freezer for about 2 hours. 



A simple and refreshing summer treat







Resources:
http://www.earthincommon.com
http://www.whfoods.com