5 Tips for Squeezing the Most Juice from Limes & Lemons
Limes are crazy expensive this year, which means that once you get your hands on a few, you’ll want to squeeze out every last drop of juice. Here are a few easy tips for making sure you are getting the most juice out of your limes, lemons, and other citrus fruits.
Tip 1: Use a reamer or other citrus juicer.
Whether you use a
simple wooden reamer
citrus squeezer
Tip 2: Stick it in the microwave.
A good 20 to 30 seconds on high helps the citrus juice flow more easily, especially if you’re taking the fruit straight from the fridge. After microwaving, let it cool for a minute before juicing.
Tip 3: Roll it against the counter.
Rolling helps to burst open some of the individual segments inside limes and lemons so it’s easier to get at the juice. It’s like pre-juicing!
Tip 4: Cut it lengthwise.
Although this doesn’t extract more juice if you’re using a reamer or juicer, cutting the fruit lengthwise instead of crosswise makes it easier to grip and squeeze if you are juicing with your hands alone. Cutting a little off center also helps to cut through some of the section membranes.
Tip 5: Use a fork.
If all else fails and you’re convinced there’s still juice to be had, try twisting the citrus segment around a fork. The tines will help to break open any remaining bits of pulp.
What other tricks do you have for getting the most juice out of limes and lemons?
(Updated from a post originally published on June 21, 2010.)