Tuesday’s Cupful: Limes

Citrus goes green with this fruit

Limes may be the more acidic cousin to lemons. They are usually enjoyed with a margarita or shot of tequila. These fruits (aka Citrus aurantifolia) are available year around at most major supermarkets, but they’re in season between May through October. Expect a thin green skin with translucent greenish inner flesh that’s loaded with juice. Meanwhile, you can also distinguish limes by their oval shape that ranges from 1 inch to just more than 2 inches in diameter. Sweet limes contain less citric acid while sour limes contain a lot of citric acid. Key limes and Tahitian limes tend to be the most popular varieties. Limes are valued for their juice, which can bring out more taste and flavors in many marinades and dishes. The tropical and subtropical plant is native to Southeast Asia. The Spanish brought limes to the West Indies in the 16th Century. Select fresh limes with a shiny deep green skin without discoloration or bruises. Limes are a good source of Vitamin C.