Happy Friday! Today I’d like to share with you some photos of my little lemon tree which is covered in ripe Meyer lemons ready to be picked.
These lemons look so pretty hanging bright yellow on the branches that I was reluctant to pick any of them.
I read in one a gardening magazine that you want to wait for the citrus to be ripe before they are picked as they don’t ripen once they are off the tree. So I picked just a handful and left the rest.
What’s unique about Meyer lemons?
I always wondered what sets Meyer lemons apart from regular lemons and why people love them so much. As it turns out Meyer lemons are very different from a regular lemon in that they are actually a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange. Meyer lemons are native to China and are relatively new to the United States. These lemons were first introduced here in the early 20th century by Frank Meyer for whom the lemons are named. Here are a few other unique characteristics of Meyer lemons.
- Appearance – Meyer lemons are smaller than regular lemons, with smoother, thin, deep yellow to orange skin, and dark yellow pulp. The differences are very distinct, especially when you see both varieties side by side.
- Taste – While they’re moderately acidic, Meyer lemons don’t have the same tang as regular lemons. Instead, they’re much sweeter — so much so that some people enjoy adding the raw segments to their salads or desserts. Their rinds also have a more complex scent than regular lemons — a spicy bergamot fragrance that tastes and smells more like an herb or a spice.
- Availability – While regular lemons are readily available all year long, Meyer lemons are more seasonal. They are usually available from December through May.
- Source: thekitchn.com
If you have loads of lemons and are looking for ways to use them check out these lemony recipes 🍋.
Lemon Garlic Pasta with Peas and Leeks
Have a wonderfully refreshing weekend everyone! 🍋🍰
