How to Store Limes: Tips for Buying Fresh Limes

Finding the best limes at the grocery store is a straightforward process. Here are some tips to consider when shopping for fresh limes:

1. 1. Check the weight. Heft the lime in your hand to gauge its weight. Pick a heavier lime, which means it is storing ample juice inside.
2. 2. Medium-softness is optimal. Pick up the lime and press it very gently with your thumb. The fruit should be somewhat soft but not hard.
3. 3. Scratches and discoloration don’t affect flavor. Scratches on the rind, brown spots, or light green and white colorations won’t jeopardize the lime’s taste or the amount of juice inside.

Consuming spoiled or moldy limes can cause food poisoning, but proper storage will keep your haul fresh for as long as possible. Use these food storage methods to extend the shelf life of limes, fresh lemons, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits:

1. 1. Freezing lime juice: Juice the limes and put the juice in individual ice cube trays. When frozen, move the juice blocks into a freezer bag. Use the fresh lime juice for any recipe that calls for it, such as limeade or marinades. The frozen lime juice will last for three to four months.
2. 2. Freezing sliced limes: Slice limes into smaller pieces and remove the seeds. Spread the slices on a baking sheet and flash freeze until they’re solid. Next, transfer the lime slices to a freezer bag and seal. Frozen limes will keep for three to four months. Use frozen limes in your cooking and baking.
3. 3. Freezing whole limes: Freeze your haul by placing the limes in a freezer bag, then defrost them until they’re soft again. The pulp will be mushy, but the juice will remain flavorful and potent. Frozen limes will keep for three to four months.
4. 4. Juicing the limes: Juice your limes, then store the liquid in an airtight container or enclosed glass jar in the fridge. Lime juice can last upwards of four days, though it will slowly lose its flavor.
5. 5. Refrigerating cut limes: Refrigerate lime halves and lime slices in the fridge for five to seven days in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. Consider wrapping the lime wedges in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
6. 6. Refrigerating whole limes: Whole limes can last for a month in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag in the crisper drawer.
7. 7. Room-temperature storage: Whole limes can last up to a week when stored at room temperature on the countertop.

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