Lemons

The lemon is an evergreen tree which bears a fruit of the same name. Lemon trees are thought to have first appeared in India, China, and Burma. Originally, the fruit was not harvested for cooking purposes, but as an antidote for poisons. During the 15th century, the citrus was cultivated in Genoa; the fruit was introduced to the United States when Christopher Columbus brought lemon seeds with him. Here lemons were also mainly grown for ornamental or medicinal purposes, and it was not until the late 17th and 18th centuries that the fruit began to be harvested in the US for its flavor.
The citrus is used for its juice or its zest, or as a garnish. It can be macerated and added to liquor or made into a preserve. The acid from lemon juice is also used to tenderize meats in marinades, and the rind can also be pickled for a savory delicacy.
In Season
Available From
Recipes with Lemons
![]() |
Candied Citrus PeelJordan Champagne, It Starts with Fruit |
![]() |
Cauliflower TabboulehDorie Greenspan, author, Everyday Dorie |
![]() |
Lemon Oatmeal and Walnut CrispsJen Musty, Batter Bakery |
![]() |
Very Tangy Lemon BarsAlice Medrich, author of Chewy Gooey Crispy Crunchy Melt-In-your Mouth Cookies (Artisan, 2010) |
- 1 of 8
- next ›
Articles about Lemons
![]() |
January 12, 2018Sunshine in the Winter: A Farmers Market Guide to CitrusFrom Cara Cara oranges to Buddha’s Hand citron, here are the winter citrus fruits you don’t want to miss the farmers market. |
About CUESA
CUESA (Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture) is dedicated to growing thriving communities through the power and joy of local food. Learn More »