The Differences and Similarities of Lime and Lemon
It’s Friday afternoon, and you’re ready to unwind and start your weekend with an ice-cold Junie—and you already know it’s going to be packed with citrusy flavors. But now, that’s got you thinking about the tartness of lemon and the zing of lime. They’re both part of the citrus family, so what makes them different?
Both lemons and limes are low in calories, high in vitamins, and pack a punch in some of your favorite recipes. Not only is the juice inside absolutely mouthwatering, but you can zest the outer layer of the rind for an extra pop of flavor as well. Whichever you prefer, these fruits bring the zing and brightness you didn’t know you needed.
Lemons
You’re seated at your favorite restaurant, and the server automatically brings you a glass of water with a fresh wedge of lemon. It has become the norm at so many hangout spots that you may not even notice that little slice of sunshine added to your H20, but it’s there, adding flavor.
Lemons originated in northern India around 700 AD and made their way to Italy around 200 AD. Today, lemons grow in warm, subtropical climates such as California (our favorite place), Chile, and Belize.
Lemons are common in our daily lives for a reason—they offer killer perks. These little yellow fruits support a healthy metabolism, digestive function, and vitamin absorption and lend a hand towards healthier-looking skin. Due to their high levels of vitamin C (88% of your daily recommended intake), lemons also aid in immune function.
Lemons tend to be sweeter than limes, and they are often paired with complementary flavors like honey and ginger. If you’re looking to sip on something lemon-inspired, try our Iced Tea Lemonade, made with black tea, lemon juice, and Jun Kombucha. This is the perfect hard twist on a classic Arnold Palmer, with 6% (ABV) for a light, bright buzz.
If you’re looking to spice up a meal, you can use lemons to enhance flavors or add a pop of color as a garnish (lemon twist, anyone?). Lemons pair perfectly with seafood like fish, shrimp, and lobster, as well as chicken.
If you’re looking to jazz up a fruit salad, blueberries, blackberries, and coconuts pair perfectly with lemons. Pair the bright acidity of lemon with basil, honey, mint, and chili for an even more complex flavor profile.
Simple Lemon Recipes
If you’re looking for some lemon inspiration, try these simple recipes.
Limes
Similar to lemons, limes originated in northern India. After the exploration of Africa and Asia, they were brought to Europe and used readily in Italian and French cuisine. When Europeans landed in North America, they brought the lime along. Limes are now found in warm, subtropical areas like the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, Central America, and the Florida Keys—the infamous home of the key lime pie.
Like lemons, limes increase vitamin absorption and support firmer, more supple-looking skin. These round, green citrus fruits are also packed with Vitamin C (although a bit less, at only 48% of your recommended value), so they also provide a boost to your immune health.
If you’re looking for a libation bursting with lime, meet the Grapefruit Palmona. This booch is crafted with grapefruit, lime, green tea, and Jun Kombucha. With only 3 grams of sugar and 150 calories, this twist on a classic cocktail is sure to get your weekend started right.
A Grapefruit Paloma obviously calls for a delicious dish alongside it, and if you’re cooking with limes, you have options. Your pick of proteins ranges from beef or chicken to seafood selections like cod, crab, and salmon.
Blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, and avocados work beautifully with the bold juiciness of lime. Add a sprinkle of basil, mint, cilantro, or ginger, and you’ve created a culinary masterpiece.
Simple Lime Recipes
If you’re craving the bite of lime juice in your next meal, try out these options.
Final Takeaway
Whether life has given you lemons or limes, you’ll find something to love about these citrus fruits. Iced Tea Lemonade, Grapefruit Paloma—whichever you choose, you’re in for a beverage bursting with brightness and bubbles.
If you can’t decide what kind of citrus you’re feeling, Hopical Citrus was made for you. This option includes sweet pineapple and tart grapefruit, topped off with citrus zest—citrus forward, laid back, and the best of both worlds all around.
Lemon, lime, grapefruit—it’s all good. Whichever is your fruit of choice, get to enjoying your weekend (or weeknight, for that matter) with an ice-cold Junie.
Sources:
6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Lemons | Healthline
Limes: Nutrition, Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects | Healthline
Meyer Lemon Herbed Crab Bites Recipe | Salt and Wind
Baked Lemon Butter Tilapia | Damn Delicious
Lemon Yogurt Cake | Jessica Gavin
Easy Guacamole Recipe | All Recipes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp | A Couple Cooks
Lime Bars—Uses Only 5 Ingredients & are Super Easy to Make! | Rock Recipes