I know we love our lemons, but how about limes? They can do so much more than add sparkle to guacamole. This little green ball explodes with potential!

When it comes to health benefits, limes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Research shows eating limes or drinking the juice strengthens immunity, reduces heart disease risk factors, prevents kidney stones, aids iron absorption, and promotes healthy skin.

But where they really shine is in the flavor department. Food scientists say that while lemons are typically more acidic and have a sour, tart taste, limes are less acidic and have a slightly sweeter, more floral taste.

Now I’m not pitting limes against lemons. They’re both fantastic for all sorts of reasons. I’m just saying let’s give ‘em BOTH equal time. After all, limes are just as versatile as lemons. Professional chefs say lime juice is a great addition to salad dressings, lime pairs well with chili seasoning and fresh cilantro, it revs up honey, it blends well with coconut, and even compliments garlic.

Professional bakers will tell you that adding lime zest to sugar cookie dough is an act of brilliance! Mixing it into the crust for key lime pie is another top secret. They also advocate incorporating it into vanilla custards as a terrific filling for cream puffs and eclairs.

And adding lime juice and zest to marinades is a tasty alternative to flavored vinegars. Like vinegar, lime’s acid breaks down the proteins in raw meat allowing the spices and oil in the marinade to infuse the meat. Tougher proteins, such as chicken breast, especially do well in a lime marinade.

Use lime juice and zest to brighten up simple summer vegetables. Consider mixing the juice and zest with fresh corn, tomatoes, red onion, and black beans. Even cooked squash cubes are yummy in this. Actually, just about every summer vegetable does well with lime.

Speaking of vegetables, typically, lemon is squeezed over asparagus for a subtle tangy finish, but there's nothing that says you can't use lime instead. When you do, you’ll notice a subtle shift in the flavor of your asparagus. Truly tasty! In fact, find out for yourself, since its season is right around the corner. Here’s a favorite asparagus recipe from www.allrecipes.com. It never fails.



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Lastly, as soon as the warmer weather of summer hits, how about an easy, healthy non-alcoholic drink? Just combine limes and a few cucumbers to make a sparkling agua fresca. Or blend your fresh limes with kiwi, sugar, and a little plain Greek yogurt for a refreshing and simple popsicle.

My final thought: It’s time to give lime the respect and attention it deserves. Let’s bring it out of the lemon’s shadow and provide it the “limelight” it deserves! (Sorry, couldn’t resist…)