Lime

Fresh limes bring bright, zesty flavor and aromatic oils to countless dishes, making them an essential ingredient for home cooks and professional chefs alike. These small, green citrus fruits pack an intensely tart and acidic punch with subtle floral notes that distinguish them from their yellow lemon cousins. Limes feature thin, bumpy skin that releases fragrant oils when zested, while the juicy flesh inside delivers that signature sharp, tangy taste. Originally native to Southeast Asia, limes have become fundamental to cuisines across Latin America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean, where their bold acidity brightens everything from marinades to cocktails. In the kitchen, limes excel at balancing rich, spicy, or sweet flavors while adding essential brightness to dishes. The juice works beautifully in marinades for fish, chicken, and pork, helping to tenderize proteins while infusing them with citrusy flavor. Fresh lime juice is indispensable for authentic Mexican salsas, guacamole, and ceviche, while the zest adds aromatic depth to baked goods, curries, and stir-fries. Popular cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and caipirinhas rely on lime's tartness to create perfect flavor balance. For best results, choose limes that feel heavy for their size with smooth, unblemished skin. Roll them firmly on the counter before juicing to maximize juice extraction, and always zest before juicing to capture those precious aromatic oils. Store fresh limes at room temperature for immediate use or refrigerate for up to two weeks.