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The One Mistake We All Make With Lemons: The Simple Trick to Keep Them Fresh and Mold-Free
Lemons are a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re using them for zest, juice, or garnishing dishes, their bright, tangy flavor is hard to beat. But if you’re like most people, you’ve probably made the mistake of storing lemons the wrong way at some point. You buy a fresh batch, toss them in the fridge or leave them on the counter, and before you know it, they’ve turned moldy, dried out, or mushy.
But what if I told you there’s a simple trick that can extend the life of your lemons, keeping them fresh and mold-free for weeks longer than usual? It turns out that the way you store your lemons can make all the difference.
Let’s explore the most common mistake people make when storing lemons, and the easy fix that will keep them fresh for much longer.
The Common Mistake: Storing Lemons at Room Temperature
One of the biggest mistakes people make is storing lemons at room temperature for too long. While lemons are hardy fruits, they can still dry out or grow mold if left in warm, humid conditions. If you leave your lemons on the counter or in a fruit bowl, especially in a warm kitchen, you’re accelerating the process of deterioration. Over time, the outer skin can start to dry out, the lemon’s flesh becomes less juicy, and eventually, mold sets in.
Why does this happen?
Lemons, like many fruits, release moisture over time. When exposed to the heat of a kitchen or left in a spot with high humidity, they can become soft or moldy. The skin also loses its protective moisture barrier, making it easier for mold spores to take hold.
The Simple Trick: Keep Lemons in Water
The solution is surprisingly simple: keep your lemons in a jar or bowl of water in the fridge. Here’s how it works:
- Fill a Jar or Bowl with Water
Find a glass jar or small bowl that’s large enough to hold your lemons comfortably. Fill it with cold water, enough to cover the lemons by about h
