Top Ten: Uses for Lemons

A lemon’s use far exceeds a top ten list, but today I’m going to share my personal favorites. What makes the lemon such a perfect element for a serene space? The varied uses for an inexpensive, easily accessible item. Plus! There are uses for the entire piece of fruit, from peel to juice. It adds value to cooking, cleaning, healthy living, beauty and décor!

1.     To add to (hot) water to begin the day. The health benefits of lemon water have been highly documented, especially when sipped first thing in the morning. From aiding digestion & metabolism to adding from vitamin C & potassium to the bod, the lemon is a welcome friend as you yawn yourself awake.

2.     A skin enhancer. For a myriad types of problem skin – blackheads,  age spots and/ dark spots – lemon juice can improve your calling card by serving as an antibacterial and face brightener. Some people swear by it as their super-effective-yet-super-affordable toner.

3.     To participate in any salad. There is nothing more refreshing than a summer salad dressed simply EVOO & lemon juice. A fruit salad is on your menu? Squirt lemon juice over it to preserve the fruits’ freshness (i.e. no browned apples!).

4.     To drizzle over prior to serving. A simple, stylish dinner party in the works? Or just a home-cooked meal with the fam? A flavorful dish needn't be fancy or have an ingredient count that overwhelms. The last step when plating the dishes? Drizzle lemon – over a hot bowl of soup or a stew, fish, side dishes like grilled veggies, etc. Boom, Mouths will water.

5.     To zest and add to baked goods. I mean, not every baked good would benefit from lemon zest, but many do. Especially if they are a fruit-based dish, like my mama’s blueberry scones… or her peach and blueberry bakes. (Can you tell this is written in the summer time, guys?) .

6.     You’ve finished a culinary masterpiece. Bravo. Brava. But now your lovely hands wreak of onions… or garlic… or fish. Not.so.serene. Wash them with lemon juice and voila. Problem solved.

7.     Do you prefer homemade cleaning products to store bought? That means white vinegar is used throughout the house, most likely. But who likes the smell of white vinegar? Not I. Add lemon peels to your cleaning liquids and your house will smell delightful.

8.     A homemade air freshener that doubles as an aluminum pot cleaner. Dice lemons, place in a pit of water and simmer for an hour.

9.     Simple, stylish (edible) décor. There is nothing more refreshing, bright and cheerful than a bowl bursting with lemons.

10.  You needn’t leave your home to have a spa day. In addition to other household items I add to a bath (Epsom salt, apple cider vinegar and baking soda are my faves), add lemon peels for fragrance. Light a candle, dim the lights, turn on some tunes… and enjoy your serene space.

Do you have other uses for the sunshiny fruit? Share in the comments below!