Lemons

Pink lemons are small to medium-sized fruits with an oblong to oval, slightly tapered shape. The rind is thin, semi-rough, and covered in vertical, mottled green and white stripes. Each green stripe is ribbed, creating a textured surface, and as the fruit ripens, it develops pronounced oil glands while the stripes fade. Beneath the surface, the flesh is a light pink color and is tender and juicy, and can be either seedless or contain a few seeds. When juiced, the fruit releases clear juice despite the colored rind. Pink lemons are aromatic and emit a fresh citrus scent, and they have a low acidity level, resulting in a sweet, slightly tart, floral, and fruity flavor. Pink lemon trees also have mottled and glossy green and white ovate leaves and fragrant blossoms, which are known among citrus enthusiasts as one of the most aromatic varieties.

Nutritional Value

Pink lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production in the skin. The lemons also contain fiber to regulate the digestive tract, calcium to protect bones and teeth, and small amounts of lycopene, a compound that gives the flesh its pink color and has antioxidant-like properties.

Uses

Pink lemons have a sweet-tart flavor that lends itself well to flavoring both culinary dishes, baked goods, and beverages. The lemons can be used in any recipe that calls for regular lemons, and they can be sliced and juiced to add vibrant flavor to fish dishes, vegetables, curries, soups, and grain bowls. The juice is also commonly mixed into salad dressings, vinaigrettes, and sauces. In addition to savory dishes, pink lemons are used for their juice and zest to flavor desserts and baked goods, including pies, cakes, scones, lemon bars, and tarts. The lemon juice can be frozen into popsicles or candied in slices to serve as an edible garnish. Aside from flavoring culinary creations, pink lemons can be sliced and muddled into water, lemonade, and cocktails, sweetened with sugar, honey, or agave for a balanced flavor. They can also add a subtle sourness to mixed drinks and sparkling beverages. It is important to note that the juice from the lemon will be clear and will not contain any pink color. Pink lemons pair well with herbs such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, meats such as chicken, turkey, pork, and fish, other seafood, honey, and fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, coconut, and peaches. Unwashed pink lemons will keep fresh for up to a month when stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Storage Tips

To keep lemons fresh and flavorful at home, store them at room temperature if you plan on using them within a week. For longer storage, place them loosely in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator, away from other fruits and vegetables, as they can spoil faster due to the ethylene gas they produce.