Citrus|Liquid | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Lime Juice

Citrus aurantiifolia (Key lime), Citrus latifolia (Persian lime) Allergen-Free
lime juice

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican|Southeast Asian|Caribbean|Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Limes

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate culinary brightener, cutting through richness and awakening flavors with its indispensable zest and acidity."

Definition

The tart, aromatic juice extracted from limes, prized for its bright, acidic flavor and culinary versatility in drinks, marinades, and dressings.

Sensory Profile

TasteSour, Tart, Bright, Aromatic
TextureThin, Liquid
AromaZesty, Citrusy, Floral
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Key Nutrient

Vitamin C

pH Level

~2.0-2.3

Shelf Life (Fresh, Refrigerated)

3-4 days (best used fresh)

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 fl oz (30g)
Calories25 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.4 g
Total Carbohydrate8.4 g
Dietary Fiber0.3 g
Total Sugars1.7 g
Calcium33 mg
Iron0.6 mg
Potassium102 mg

Chef’s Secret

Roll limes firmly on a counter before cutting and squeezing to maximize juice yield. Warm limes slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for even more juice.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lemon Juice

1:1

Most common and similar substitute, provides similar acidity and brightness but with a slightly different floral note.

Rice Vinegar

1:1

Offers acidity but lacks the citrus aroma. Good for savory dishes where sourness is primary.

White Wine Vinegar

1:1 (diluted)

Stronger acidity, may need dilution. Lacks citrus notes. Best for dressings or marinades.

Citric Acid (powder)

1/2 tsp per 1 tbsp juice

Provides pure sourness, lacks the liquid and aromatic complexity. Good for dry seasoning or adjusting acidity.

Buying Guide

Always choose fresh limes over bottled juice for superior flavor. Look for firm, heavy limes.

Flavor Pairings

Cocktails marinades ceviche curries tacos stir-fries desserts salad dressings.

Recipes Using Lime Juice

Course Time To Make No Cook 5 Ingredients Or Less

10 Minute Lime Pie

Craving key lime pie but short on time? This 10-Minute Lime Pie delivers the same tangy, refreshing flavor in a fraction of the time! A simplified version inspired by Serious Eats, this recipe skips the lengthy lime-squeezing process – use fresh lime juice or bottled for ultimate convenience. Get ready for a cool, creamy, and unbelievably easy dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

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Low Fat Healthy Course Low Fat

A Is For Apple C Is For Carrot Salad

This vibrant A is for Apple, C is for Carrot Salad is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. The unexpected warmth of cinnamon and fresh ginger perfectly complements the crisp sweetness of apple and carrot. Toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch and rich flavor – don't skip this step! A food processor makes prep a breeze, allowing you to enjoy this delicious salad in minutes. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Dietary Main Ingredient Cuisine Course

African Peanut Stew

This hearty and flavorful African Peanut Stew recipe is a labor of love, inspired by a Rochester, NY restaurant! Years in the making, this recipe delivers a rich, nutty stew perfect for a cozy night in. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or add brown rice directly to the stew for extra heartiness. Get ready for a taste of Rochester!

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Occasion Seasonal Cuisine Breads

Al Fresco Bread

Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this rustic Al Fresco Bread recipe! This adaptable recipe allows you to create a delicious, crusty loaf bursting with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a delightful side dish. The key is using dry ingredients and building your filling strategically to prevent a soggy bottom. Enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh, homemade bread!

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Black Beans Free Of Something American Vegetarian

Amazing Black Bean Soup In 5 Ingredients

This unbelievably easy black bean soup recipe will blow you away! Packed with flavor and ready in just 25 minutes, it's a totally vegetarian delight. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is easily customizable – top with crusty bread, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra deliciousness. Find your new favorite soup recipe here!

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Main Ingredient Thai Occasion Low Carb

Asparagus With Thai Dressing

Brighten your taste buds with this vibrant Asparagus with Thai Dressing recipe! Perfect for a light lunch or side dish, this recipe showcases the best of seasonal asparagus with a zesty, flavorful Thai twist. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh herbs, it's the perfect way to enjoy this delicious spring vegetable.

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Vegetarian Vegetables 15 Minutes Or Less Salads

Avocado And Kohlrabi Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring creamy avocado, crisp kohlrabi, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This easy 15-minute recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or healthy appetizer. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the slightly peppery kohlrabi, creating a delightful textural and flavor contrast. Impress your guests with this elegant yet simple salad!

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Number Of Servings Fall Technique Main Ingredient

Avocado And Tomatillo Dip

This vibrant Avocado and Tomatillo Dip is bursting with fresh flavor and incredibly easy to make! Perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, or side dish, this recipe combines creamy avocados with tangy tomatillos for an unforgettable taste sensation. Ready in under 10 minutes, it's the perfect last-minute addition to any gathering.

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Bisques Cream Soups Bisques Cream Soups Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less

Avocado Soup

Indulge in this vibrant and creamy avocado soup, bursting with fresh flavors! This quick and easy recipe combines ripe avocados, zesty lime, spicy jalapeño, and a touch of sherry for a luxuriously smooth and subtly spicy soup. Perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or starter for a special occasion.

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Grilling Equipment Course Barbecue

Aw Shucks Grilled Corn

Elevate your grilling game with this incredible Aw Shucks Grilled Corn recipe, inspired by Rick Browne's Barbecue America! Juicy, smoky corn on the cob gets a flavor boost from a zesty spiced mayonnaise-butter mixture. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues and family gatherings. Get ready for unbelievably delicious grilled corn!

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Course Soups Stews North American Easy

Award Winning White Chicken Chili

Spice up your weeknight with this creamy, dreamy, and slightly spicy Award-Winning White Chicken Chili! This recipe, a crowd-pleaser that took 3rd place in a chili cook-off (beating out all the traditional red chilis!), delivers a thick, satisfying chili with a delightful kick. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends, this recipe is easy to follow and bursting with flavor. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Seafood Central American

Bahamian Boiled Fish

This soul-satisfying Bahamian Boiled Fish recipe (a gentle simmer, not a boil!) is unbelievably delicious. Adapted from Rosemary Parkinson's *Culinaria: The Caribbean* and featured in the Miami Herald, this recipe uses any white fish (grouper preferred) simmered in a fragrant broth. The result? A light, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. Serve with creamy grits and cornbread for a complete Bahamian experience! Add fiery fish peppers for an extra kick (if you can find them!).

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Mexican North American Main Ingredient Meat

Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Crispy, cheesy chicken taquitos baked to golden perfection! This easy recipe, adapted from Our Best Bites and Pennies on a Platter, delivers creamy, flavorful chicken in perfectly rolled tortillas. A fantastic appetizer or weeknight meal, these taquitos are sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Vegetarian Berries Sweet American

Banana Berry Frozen Yogurt

Cool down with this ridiculously easy, low-calorie Banana Berry Frozen Yogurt! Made with fresh or frozen berries (your choice!), this healthy dessert requires no cooking – just freezing and blending. Get ready for creamy, dreamy deliciousness in under an hour!

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Low Calorie Chicken Main Ingredient Occasion

Basic Chicken Breasts W 4 Variation Toppers

Transform simple chicken breasts into four exciting gourmet meals! This recipe provides a base for perfectly cooked chicken, then guides you through four delicious and easy-to-make toppers: tangy mustard-caper, earthy mushroom-wine, sweet and spicy Caribbean, and vibrant tomato-artichoke. Each topper takes just minutes to prepare, making this recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cooking project. Get inspired to create your own variations!

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Seafood Course Seafood Preparation

Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Soft Tacos W Coleslaw And Avocado Sauce

Dive into a taste of paradise with these incredible Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Tacos! Flaky, crispy mahi-mahi fillets are tossed in a light and bubbly beer batter, then flash-fried to golden perfection. Each taco is generously layered with a vibrant, crunchy coleslaw, a luscious homemade avocado sauce, and fresh cilantro. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend fiesta.

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Presentation Spicy Seafood Taste Mood

Shrimp With Chipotle Sauce

Elevate your appetizer game with this fiery Shrimp with Chipotle Sauce recipe! Inspired by Surreal Gourmet, this recipe lets you control the heat with customizable chipotle pepper and adobo sauce. Succulent shrimp are tossed in a zesty dry rub, then pan-seared to perfection. Serve this delightful dish over a vibrant mesclun mix for a restaurant-quality experience. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal!

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Preparation Squash Thai Beans

Thai Tofu With Zucchini Red Bell Pepper And Lime

Spice up your weeknight with this vibrant Thai Tofu recipe! A delicious vegetarian dish bursting with flavor, featuring tender tofu, crisp zucchini and red bell pepper in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fragrant red curry paste. Adapted from Bon Appetit, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

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