What's New

8 Aug 2018

Limes, Limes, Limes!

We are excited to announce that we are now shipping Persian limes year-round and we want to tell you all about ‘em. There’s a whole lot more to our favorite zesty tropical fruit than just its deliciously sweet, citrusy flavor we all know and love.

The limes you most typically see at your local grocery store are known as Persian limes.  Limes are citrus hybrids with thin, rich green skin. They are similar to lemons (they can even turn yellow like lemons when mature and if exposed to cooler conditions) but they are smaller and rounder than your typical lemon and even a little sweeter and more acidic.

Limes are grown commercially year-round  in subtropical climates such as Mexico, Guatemala, India, and Egypt.

Origins

Although the precise origins of limes are not known, wild limes are believed to have first grown in Southeast Asia. They were later sent to the Mediterranean region and were first grown on a larger scale in what is known today as Southern Iraq and Persia.

Fun fact– during the 19th Century British sailors were given a daily allowance of citrus to prevent scurvy. At first, they were given a concoction with lemons but later they used limes. Thus, the British sailor got the nickname, “Limey”.

Uses

While limes aren’t necessarily popular to eat on their own, they are known in cooking for their acidity and aroma. They have long been an important accent for a variety of cuisines including Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese. More recently they have even become a popular (and necessary) garnish for many of our favorite cocktails. What’s a Corona, Cuba libre or vodka soda without a lime wedge, after all?!?

Lime juice is also popular in salad dressings, squeezed over meat to tenderize it, and it can be served as limeade (water, lime juice, and sugar).  It is also well known for its pickling properties such as in ceviche.

Fast Nutrition Facts

  • High in Vitamin C One lime can provide 32% of the vitamin C you need in a day (this is also helpful in boosting your immune system).
  • Good Source of Fiber Foods that are high in fiber can help aid in digestion.
  • They are also, fat-free, saturated fat-free, sodium-free, cholesterol-free, and low-calorie.
  • FINALLY, some studies have shown that the citric acid present in limes may help with weight loss and can reduce fat.

So now you can clearly see why there is so more to love than just that refreshing flavor and aroma. Keep a look out on our social pages for tips and  new recipes using limes!