A Zest for Lemons
Can you imagine life without lemons? From iced tea to icebox pie, lemon adds a spark of flavor that is simply irreplaceable. Good cooks everywhere recognize the culinary value of lemon — not only for its own refreshing taste, but also for the way it brings out flavor in other foods.
There may be no more versatile fruit than a lemon. Valued for its undeniably refreshing flavor, lemon pies, cakes, cookies and sauces are among our favorite desserts. But lemon also enhances the flavor of breads, salads, salad dressings, fish, chicken, vegetables and even other fruits like melons. A squeeze of lemon juice enlivens beverages like iced tea, tomato juice and, of course, its namesake, lemonade. And as a natural antioxidant, lemon prevents browning of fruits and vegetables.
Baking with Lemons
For all the wonderful uses of lemons, baking has to be high on the list. Making something sweet out of a naturally tart fruit is simply magic. Lemon curd and the filling for a lemon pie are basically thickened and sweetened lemon juice. A little lemon juice and grated peel contribute a subtle flavor to cakes, cookies and breads. And sometimes lemon is the secret ingredient in a fruit cobbler or pie that provides a special little flavor boost.
Even Martha White® Muffin Mixes get a new twist with some lemon juice or peel. Luscious Lemon Berry Muffins are easy to make and will provide the perfect accent to a spring brunch or luncheon. And Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is great to have on hand for breakfast or to pair with fresh fruit for a casual dessert.
Of course, you can never go wrong with lemon bars. Lemon Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery cookie crust topped with a lemony cream cheese layer — the perfect refreshing finish to a spring get-together.
Click Here for Tips on Cooking and Baking with Lemons.