How Limes Grow
Limes start out as deep dark green fruit on the tree when they are young. As they grow and mature, they become brighter and brighter. And if they are left on the tree , they will turn yellow.
They turn yellow as the chlorophyll in the peel begins to break down, revealing the skin’s yellow pigments.
When Limes are Harvested
Timing is everything. Limes do not ripen further once picked. They are a non-climacteric fruit. As they age post-harvest, they may turn yellow, but this is not a sign of further ripening but rather them just getting old AF.
Limes are harvested when they are bright green because this is when they are their most flavorful, acidic, and juicy. Right before they start to turn yellow. It depends on the variety and region, but they can be harvested year-round.
How to Buy Limes
Look for limes that are a bright green color for peak flavor. How do you know what that color is? Find a lime that has a small yellow spot on it. The green on the rest of that lime is the bright green you are looking for. Simply choose limes that match that green.
Choose limes that feel heavy for their size. Pick ones that are of similar size and shape and compare them. Grocery stores typically have scales if you are unsure. The heavier they are, the juicer they will be!
Pick a limes that are firm, have no soft spots, and a smooth skin.
Remember, limes are a non-climacteric fruit. They will not ripen further. So you want to buy good limes. What you see is what you get.
Choosing the best limes means they will keep longer when properly stored.
How to Store Limes
Nothing quite brightens up a kitchen like a bowl of fresh and colorful fruit on the counter or kitchen table. Especially if it includes fresh citrus. But I have some bad news.
This is the worst possible way to store limes.
Limes, and citrus in general, prefer the cold. It is best to keep limes in the refrigerator and not on the counter. Keep them in a plastic bag or container (my preference to reduce waste) with the opening slightly ajar. Stored this way they can keep for a longtime. A few months even!
Limes emit some ethylene gas, the plant hormone that causes ripening and aging in produce. They aren’t very sensitive to the gas but long term storage in a sealed container in the fridge can accelerate their deterioration. That is why you want to keep the bag or container opening ajar.
