What Is Key Lime (Mexican Lime)?
Key lime (also known as Mexican lime) is the small, round fruit of the species Citrus × aurantiifolia. It is noticeably smaller and thinner-skinned than the large green lime commonly sold in supermarkets (Persian lime, Citrus × latifolia).
As it ripens, the peel turns pale yellow, but most recipes use the fruit while it is still green, when it is at its tartest. Compared with Persian lime, it has a sharper flavor and a more complex aroma.
Nutritional Values of Key Lime
One hundred grams of key lime provide about 30 kcal of energy. Like other citrus fruits, it contains a high level of vitamin C and a moderate amount of fiber. The values are approximate.
How Should You Consume Key Lime?
Like other citrus fruits, key lime is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; key lime is a fruit, not a medical treatment.
How to Choose Key Limes
A good key lime has a glossy, firm peel, feels heavy for its size (a sign that it is juicy), and has no soft or bruised spots. Its color may range from green to yellow; both are suitable to eat.
- The peel should be glossy and firm; wrinkled skin indicates staleness.
- Fruits that feel heavy in the hand are juicier.
- There should be no soft or bruised spots.
How to Store Key Limes
Key limes stay fresh for a few days at room temperature and for 2–3 weeks in the refrigerator crisper drawer.
Using Key Lime in the Kitchen
Key lime juice is most often used in salad dressings, marinades, and desserts. Its zest can be grated in for flavor, and it adds tartness to many Mexican and Southeast Asian dishes.
What Is Key Lime Pie?
Key lime pie is a classic American pie associated with the Florida Keys. It is made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and condensed milk, and is named after the lime. It is one of the best-known uses of key lime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between key lime and regular lime?
Key lime is noticeably smaller than the Persian lime commonly sold in supermarkets, has thinner skin, and has a sharper, more aromatic flavor. It also generally has more seeds.
Are key lime and kumquat the same fruit?
No, they are two different fruits. Kumquat (Citrus japonica) is a small citrus fruit with a sweet peel that is eaten whole without peeling; key lime is a sour lime whose peel is not eaten.
Can you find key limes in Türkiye?
They are not widely available; they may be found in limited quantities in season at gourmet produce shops and markets in major cities and are mostly imported.