Lemon is a round, yellow citrus fruit with a refreshing, tangy taste. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is widely used for culinary, medicinal and aromatic purposes throughout the world.

Lemons can be traced back to Southeast Asia, probably to India, China and Burma. Over the centuries, it has been cultivated and traded in various parts of the world, including the Mediterranean, Europe and the United States. Explorers and traders played a major role in spreading the lemon across continents.

Lemons were already mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman writings, and were used both as a condiment for cooking and as a medicinal remedy. Its vitamin C content made it crucial in preventing scurvy among sailors on long sea voyages.

Today, lemon is widely used for its juice and zest in beverages, sweet and savory dishes, marinades, desserts and skin care products. Because of its distinctive flavor and beneficial properties, lemon occupies a special place in many cultures and cuisines around the world.

Nutritional highlights of lemons

Lemons are rich in essential nutrients and offer numerous health benefits. Here are just a few of the nutritional highlights of lemons:

1. Vitamin C: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, promotes healthy skin, supports wound healing and contributes to healthy gums.
2. Antioxidants: In addition to vitamin C, lemons contain antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Fiber: Lemons provide fiber, which is important for digestion, blood sugar regulation and intestinal health.
4. Citric acid: The citric acid in lemons can help stimulate digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes.
5. Potassium: Lemons contain potassium, an essential mineral that contributes to fluid balance in the body, muscle and nerve function, and blood pressure regulation.
6. Cardiovascular health: Antioxidants in lemons can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health by improving blood vessel function.
7. Ascorbic acid: The ascorbic acid present in lemons can promote the absorption of non-heme iron, which comes from plant sources.
8. Alkalinity: Although lemons are acidic to the taste, they have an alkalizing effect in the body, which can help maintain pH balance.
9. Hydration: Drinking lemon water can contribute to hydration, while adding a pleasant flavor.
10. Reduced risk of kidney stones: Regular consumption of lemon can help prevent the formation of kidney stones, thanks in part to its citric acid, which prevents the crystallization of minerals in the urine.

Lemons are a versatile addition to the diet, whether used to season dishes, prepare refreshing drinks or as a source of health-promoting nutrients.

Choosing and storing lemons

Choosing lemons

When buying lemons, follow these tips for choosing quality fruit:

1. Weight and density: Choose lemons that are heavy for their size. Heavier lemons tend to contain more juice.
2. Smooth, shiny skin: Opt for lemons with smooth, shiny skin, free of dark spots or wrinkles.
3. Color: Look for bright yellow lemons. Avoid those that are too green, as they may not be ripe enough.
4. Absence of bumps or bruises: Avoid lemons with bumps, bruises or soft spots.
5. Fragrance: Choose lemons that give off a fresh, lemony scent when you touch them.

Preserving lemons

To prolong the freshness of your lemons, follow these storage tips:

1. Room temperature : Lemons can be stored at room temperature for about a week if eaten promptly.
2. Refrigeration: If you don't plan to use them immediately, place lemons in the refrigerator crisper. This will extend their shelf life by about two to four weeks.
3. Plastic bags: You can also place lemons in a perforated plastic bag before storing them in the fridge to prevent them from drying out.
4. Zest: If you plan to use lemon zest, remove it before refrigerating them, as the zest is easier to remove when the lemons are at room temperature.
5. Freezing: If you have too many lemons, you can also freeze them. It's best to freeze the juice in ice cube trays for later use.

Tip: If you squeeze lemons to extract the juice, you can also freeze the juice in ice cube trays for future use in recipes.

By following these tips, you'll be able to keep your lemons fresh and tasty for future use.

Tips for preparing lemons

Here are a few tips for preparing lemons before you use them in your recipes or enjoy them:

1. Washing: Wash lemons in cold water to remove any surface dirt or residue. Lightly brush the skin with a vegetable brush if necessary.
2. Zest: If you need lemon zest for your recipes, remove it with a fine grater before cutting the lemons.
3. Cutting: Use a clean knife to cut lemons into halves or quarters, as required. You can also trim the ends of the lemons for easier cutting.
4. Squeezing: If you need lemon juice, squeeze the lemons using a citrus press, first rolling the lemon under the palm of your hand to release the juice.
5. Seed removal: When squeezing lemons, be sure to remove the seeds from the juice.
6. Separation: If you need lemon wedges to decorate or garnish dishes, cut the wedges by separating the segments.
7. Storing the juice: If you don't use all the lemon juice immediately, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.
8. Freezing: If you have lots of lemons and can't use them quickly, squeeze them and freeze the juice in ice cube trays for later use.
9. Using the zest: Lemon zest can be added to enhance the flavour of many dishes, from desserts to savoury dishes. Be careful not to remove the white part, which can be bitter.
10. Garnish: Use lemon slices or wedges to garnish drinks, dishes or desserts for a touch of freshness and flavor.

Lemons are versatile and can be used in many ways in the kitchen. By following these tips, you'll be able to prepare lemons efficiently and incorporate them into your favorite recipes.

Why choose organic lemons?

Opting for organic lemons has many benefits for your health, the environment and sustainable farming practices. Here's why you should choose organic lemons:

1. Chemical-free: Organic lemons are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides or chemical fertilizers. This reduces your exposure to the potentially harmful residues found on conventional lemons.
2. Nutritional quality: Organic growing methods favor nutrient-rich soils, which can result in lemons containing more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
3. Authentic flavor: Organic lemons are often said to have a more intense, authentic flavor, as they grow in balanced, natural environments.
4. Biodiversity and ecosystems: Organic farming encourages the preservation of biodiversity, using practices that maintain healthy soils and ecosystems.
5. Water protection: Organic farming practices reduce ground and surface water pollution by avoiding the use of chemicals that could contaminate water sources.
6. Farmers' health: Farmers and farm workers who grow organic lemons are less exposed to toxic chemicals, which improves their health and well-being.
7. Non-GMO: Organic lemons are not genetically modified (GMO), which may be important for people wishing to avoid genetically modified foods.
8. Environmental ethics: Choosing organic products promotes environmentally-friendly and sustainable farming practices.
9. Traceability and standards: Organic products are subject to strict standards and controls, guaranteeing their quality, origin and authenticity.
10. Support for farmers: Buying organic lemons supports farmers who choose more environmentally-friendly growing methods, helping to promote a more sustainable food system.

By choosing organic lemons, you're not only promoting your own health, but also contributing to a healthier environment, responsible farming practices and the well-being of farming communities.

Recipes with lemons