Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Garnishes > Other Garnishes > Lemon or Lime Wedges
Lemon and Lime Wedges for Soups & Stews
Add a burst of fresh citrus flavor and visual appeal to your soups and stews with simple lemon and lime wedges. This garnish enhances both the taste and presentation of your dishes.
Ingredients
- 1-2 Lemons
- 1-2 Limes
Choosing Your Citrus
Select fresh, firm lemons and limes with smooth, unblemished skin. Look for fruits that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Organic citrus is preferable to avoid pesticide residue on the peel.
Washing the Citrus
Thoroughly wash the lemons and limes under cold running water. Use a vegetable brush to scrub the skin, removing any dirt or wax. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Cutting the Wedges
Cut the lemon and lime in half lengthwise. Place each half cut-side down on a cutting board and slice into wedges. The number of wedges will depend on the size of the fruit and your preference. Aim for approximately 6-8 wedges per fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Place a few lemon and lime wedges on a small plate or in a bowl alongside your soup or stew. Allow each diner to add the wedges to their individual serving, squeezing the juice over the soup or stew to taste. Alternatively, you can pre-garnish each bowl with a wedge.
Flavor Pairing Ideas
Lemon wedges pair well with seafood-based soups and stews, as well as those with chicken or vegetable broth. Lime wedges are excellent with spicy soups, Latin-inspired stews, or soups with coconut milk.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: The nutritional value of lemon and lime wedges is minimal due to the small quantity used per serving. The information below is approximate.
Calories: Approximately 3-5 kcal
Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
Fiber: <1g
Sugars: <1g
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
Lemon and lime wedges offer a small amount of Vitamin C and antioxidants. They are generally low in calories and contribute very little to the overall nutritional profile of the soup or stew. If you have citrus allergies, avoid this garnish.
FAQ
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How long can I store lemon and lime wedges?
Lemon and lime wedges are best used immediately. However, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They may dry out slightly. -
Can I use bottled lemon or lime juice instead?
While bottled juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon and lime wedges offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor. The zest of the peel also adds a fragrant aroma. -
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, oranges and grapefruits can also be used as garnishes, depending on the flavor profile of your soup or stew. However, lemons and limes are the most commonly used.