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How to Use Meyer Lemons

10 Great Ways to Use Meyer Lemons

By , About.com Guide

Meyer lemons are a bit sweeter than regular lemons, with a discernible orange-y flavor. They can be used in place of regular lemons in many recipes, but keep in mind that they contain more sugar and less acid, and thus have a softer flavor than their famously sour siblings. Find great ways to use Meyer lemons below.

1. Candied Peel

Candied Lemon PeelPhoto © Molly Watson
Meyer lemon peel makes particularly sweet and tender Candied Lemon Peel. Meyer lemon peels are often thinner than other lemons, so they may require extra care when zesting.

2. Chutney

Photo © Molly Watson
Sweet and spicy Meyer lemon chutney preserves the bright flavor of winter Meyer lemons all year long. Perfect with chicken, pork, or salmon.

3. Cocktails

Rosemary Mint Lemon CoolerPhoto © Molly Watson
To use Meyer lemon juice in place of regular lemon juice in your favorite cocktail (sidecar, lemon drop), be sure to reduce the amount of sugar or sweet liqueur to balance out the cocktail and highlight the unique flavor of Meyer lemons.

4. Fruit Salads

Photo © Molly Watson
Meyer lemons are so mild and sweet that you can use them simply peeled and sliced in fruits salads, as in this Sliced Winter Citrus Salad.

5. Lemonade

Homemade LemonadePhoto © Molly Watson
Meyer lemons make wonderfully floral and tempting Homemade Lemonade. Remember, since Meyers are sweeter than other lemons, so start with about half the sugar, only adding more to taste if you like.

6. Marmalade

Photo © Molly Watson
This creamy Meyer Lemon Marmalade is much easier than most marmalades - Meyer lemon pith isn't anywhere near as bitter as other citrus, so you can simply include it in the mix!

7. Preserved Meyer Lemons

Photo © Molly Watson
Meyer lemons can be preserved in salty lemon juice and used in a wide ranges of savory dishes - salads, roast chicken, and stews. See this Step-by-Step Guide to Making Preserved Meyer Lemons.

8. Salads

Photo © Molly Watson
Peel and remove the pith of a few Meyer lemons. Chop lemon flesh and mix with plenty of chopped parsley, Toss with some fruity extra-virgin olive oil and salt. Also try Meyer Lemon and Fennel Salad, Arugula Salad with Broiled Lemons, or Meyer Lemon and Parsley Salad.

9. Sorbets or Granitas

Refreshing and easy - Meyer lemon sorbet can be ready in a snap if you have an ice cream maker, and a few hours in any freezer. Bring a cup of sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil, simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Set aside and let cool. Meanwhile, juice enough Meyer lemons for 4 cups of juice. Add enough sugar syrup to sweeten to taste (make it a little bit sweeter than you like it, since freezing dulls the sweetness. Freeze according to manufacturer's instructions in an ice cream maker for sorbet or pour into a shallow pan and freeze, stirring every few hours, for granita.

10. With Fish

The bright sweetness of Meyer lemons makes them a great match for fish. Bake fish with thin slices of Meyer lemon on top or simply serve a few wedges for squirting alongside your favorite baked, broiled, steamed, or grilled fish.

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