How to freeze limes and lemons?

 

Lime season is short in Israel, and when I find them at the souq I’m happy, I buy many, and freeze them. Limes, and lemons, stay good in the freezer for several months. When needed, I defrost them overnight in the fridge, or use them frozen.

Here is how I simply freeze limes and lemons:

1. Cut away any areas of the limes/lemons where the skin is damaged. Wash well the fruits under cold running water, and dry them carefully.

2. Cut the limes/lemons into wedges or slices (I prefer to cut them into quarters as it is more convenient for cooking). The zest and juice can also be frozen separately.

3. Place the limes/lemons in a single layer on a baking sheet, and place them in the freezer until frozen.

4. Transfer the frozen limes/lemons to a freezer bag, and store them in the freezer.

5. Here, I freeze lemon juice in a disposable ice cube bag. Each cube is about ½ tablespoon.