I think we can all agree that limes are a delicious necessity in the kitchen. I use this vitamin C-packed fruit on a daily basis in drinks like my favorite Hugo spritz cocktail, treats like these creamsicle popsicles, or savory dishes like cilantro lime riced cauliflower. Whatever dish I add them to, they just add that perfect bright, tangy taste I can’t get enough of! But, you’re here because you want to know how to cut a lime. I have some tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you cut lime wheels and wedges for the perfect garnish or flavoring.
How to Cut Limes
Some people make this process seem complicated, but it’s actually really simple! Here’s how to cut limes into two different wedge styles and lime wheels.
Wash & Prep
Start by thoroughly washing the lime under cold running water. Dry it off with a clean towel to remove any external residue, then grab out a cutting board and a paring or utility knife. Make a small cut on both sides to create a flat, stable surface.
Lengthwise Wedges
Place the lime on a cutting board. Slice off a small section from both sides to create a flat, stable surface. Position the lime upright on the flat side. Using a sharp knife, slice it vertically down the middle to create two long halves. Place each half flat-side down and slice lengthwise again. Make two more lengthwise cuts with your knife at an angle. You should end up with four wedges per lime half. You can make a small slit in the center of each wedge to secure it on a glass as a garnish.
Crosswise Wedges
Lay the lime on its side on the cutting board. Slice it directly down the center to make two equal halves. You can stop here if you’re just juicing the halves. Or, place each half flat-side down and slice them in half again. Make two more cuts with your knife at an angle, giving you four wedges per lime half. This style is great if you want that classic cartoon lime wedge appearance!
Wheels
Keep the lime on its side on the cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make thin, round slices across the whole lime. Make the slices a uniform thickness to provide the best presentation for drinks and garnishes. Use your knife to make a slit that ends at the center so you can place your wheel on a glass.
Don’t forget…
Knife Choice: A small or paring or utility knife is ideal over a larger knife for more control when you’re cutting smaller fruits like limes. Use a Sharp Knife: Always make sure your knife is nice and sharp for the cleanest cuts and to avoid squishing the fruit. Finger Safety: Tuck your fingers in while you’re cutting the lime, and place a damp paper towel underneath your cutting board to help stabilize it and avoid mishaps. Proper Cutting Technique: Slice the lime gently, using a sawing motion rather than pressing down hard, to preserve all that precious lime juice inside!
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your cut limes, store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel in the crisper section of your refrigerator. This provides the best conditions for preserving their moisture and zest. Properly stored, limes can last between 3-5 days. The exact duration will depend on their initial freshness and the effectiveness of the seal.
Got limes? Make these!
Once you know how to cut a lime, now you need to know how to use it! Limes can be used in both food and drink recipes, which is why I always have them in the fridge. Here are just a few of my favorite recipes with fresh limes:
