Pink lemons are in season now and available at selected retail stores throughout the United States. “They are the most unusual lemon variety,” says Alex Teague with Limoneira. “The exteriors are variegated (striped) and the stripes fade as the lemons mature. Their fleshy interiors become more vibrantly pink with age.” The riper the lemon, the more intense the pink color inside.
Alex Teague, Limoneira's COO.
Sweeter taste and visible appeal
Not only does the pink lemon look different from classic lemons, it also has a different flavor. “It is slightly sweeter than our classic lemons added with a hint of grapefruit,” shared Teague. “The combination of a sweeter taste and visible appeal make celebrated chefs and mixologists around the world love them,” he added. This lemon variety adds artistic flair to chefs’ creations and their vibrant exterior makes them a perfect garnish for cocktails.
“Each of our lemon varieties have slightly different flavor profiles that pair perfectly with recipes. Pinks are wonderful with fish, poultry, vegetables and salads.” For a sweet twist on the classic lemons, Teague recommends using them in lemon cake, lemon bars and lemon pies. At the same time, the juice of pink lemons makes a delicious lemonade, when sweetened with sugar or agave.
Small, but growing demand
Pink lemons were discovered in the 1960s as a Eureka lemon hybrid. “Until today, they are still quite rare.” Limoneira sees a small, but growing demand for pink lemons and the company has increased its acreage for the lemon variety in recent years. “Our pink lemons are sustainably grown, using solar energy, recycled mulch and precision irrigation. Fun and sustainable fact is that the company’s English Miniature Sheep graze among the solar orchards and help with weed abatement.
Limoneira’s pink lemons are in season from December through May. One of the US retailers carrying them is Trader Joe’s where they go for $1.69 per bag of three.
Check out Limoneira’s pink lemons at Southern Exposure this weekend, booth 603.
For more information:
John Chamberlain
Limoneira
Tel: +1 (805) 525-5541
[email protected]
www.limoneira.com