Bright and Zesty Key Lime Recipes
It’s safe to say, I’m mildly obsessed with key limes (and citrus desserts in general). These sweet-tart little balls of delicious citrus are one of my favorite ingredients. When summer rolls around, you best believe that I’m raiding my local farmer’s markets for a bounty of fresh key limes. There are so many ways to use them in all sorts of recipes, in baking, and beyond. Below, I’m sharing everything you want to know about key limes. Plus, I’ve included 10 of my favorite key lime recipes to inspire your own obsession.
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Limes vs. Key Limes
So, what’s the difference between a lime and a key lime? Key limes are native to Southeast Asia. The main difference between regular limes and key limes is their size and color. Key limes are usually smaller (about the size of a ping-pong ball) and more yellow than Persian limes, which are the common type you’ll find in stores. If you slice a key lime in half, you’ll also notice that it has a thinner skin and more seeds, and the juice is more tart and aromatic than regular limes. The key lime gets its name from where it’s grown Stateside, in the Florida Keys.
What Can I Use Key Limes For?
Key lime is a great ingredient to use in marinades, drinks like limeade and iced tea, as a garnish, and in tons of recipes because of its fresh, citrusy scent and unique, acidic flavor. You can zest the rind and/or squeeze the juice over fish and seafood, or use it to brighten up stir-fries and curries. Of course, it’s also a key ingredient (pun intended?) in desserts like key lime pie.
Where Can I Find Key Limes?
How to Tell When a Key Lime Is Ripe
Key limes are usually picked when they’re still green, and they get more yellow as they ripen. To pick out the best key limes, look for the ripe ones. Ripe key limes are yellowish-green in color, and they’ll feel a bit heavy and firm to touch (not hard, though). Avoid limes that feel rough and dry.
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead?
Yes. If you’re struggling to find key limes in your area, you can use regular Persian limes instead of key limes in most recipes. The flavor will be slightly different, but they’ll absolutely work in a pinch.
The Best Way to Store Key Limes
As mentioned, key limes don’t stay fresh for long. For this reason, it’s best to use them right away. Otherwise, store key limes in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge for up to 2 weeks.
10 Best Key Lime Recipes to Try
If you have your hands on some fresh key limes, you’re going to want to give these treats a try. I can’t wait to zest things up with these mouthwatering key lime recipes this summer! Check out my recipe finder for more easy desserts and recipes made with your favorite ingredients. PIN for later:
