Learn how to make your lemon juice and zest last too.
Key Takeaways
There’s nothing quite like a fresh lemon.
That starts with storing lemons properly.
Credit: Getty/Géza Bálint Ujvárosi / EyeEm
We’ve consulted with Richard LaMarita, chef-instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education.
Richard LaMaritais a chef-instructor at theInstitute of Culinary Education.
“Ripe lemons will have a glossiness, firm feel, and deep yellow color.”
Keeping your lemons fresh for as long as possible starts with what lemons you purchase at the grocery store.
LaMarita recommends staying away from ones that are wrinkled or squishy.
While ripe lemons can be stored on the kitchen counter, they won’t last nearly as long.
The cool temperature of the refrigerator is your best bet to keeping them fresh.
These five lemon storage methods will help.
“I store my lemons free-standing in the crisper drawer,” he explains.
“They can easily last a month or more there.”
When kept this way, your lemons can stay fresh for up to three weeks.
While we’re not sure of that claim, it may keep your lemons fresh for a few weeks.
Be aware that any bacteria on the lemon’s surface may contaminate the water.
Plastic bags, however, can trap moisture, causing the lemons to spoil much quicker.
Freeze Your Lemons
If you end up with way too many lemons, consider freezing them.
“You canfreeze cut or whole lemonsthey freeze very well,” says LaMarita.
So, while the frozen lemons will be mushy when defrosted, their juices will remain intact.
Whether sliced or cut into wedges or halves, cut lemons should be stored in the refrigerator.
It will keep for four days and can be used in drinks or your favorite vinaigrette.
If it begins to darken, throw it out.
it’s possible for you to also freeze the juice.
You’ll be glad to have it on hand for a quick garnish or to boost a seafood dinner.
University of Maryland Extension.Ethylene and the regulation of fruit ripening.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Home Food Storage.
