If you love lemons but sometimes find them a little sharp, the Meyer lemon may be your new favorite winter citrus. With its thin, fragrant skin, deep golden color, and naturally sweeter flavor, the Meyer lemon is a standout fruit that bridges the gap between lemon and mandarin orange.
Unlike standard lemons, Meyer lemons are lower in acidity and have a soft floral aroma that makes them especially versatile in the kitchen. Their smooth skin is edible and delicate, their juice is abundant, and their flavor is round and balanced rather than puckering. This makes them just as at home in savory dishes as they are in desserts.
Meyer lemons shine wherever you would normally use a lemon—but with less bite and more nuance. Use the juice for salad dressings, sauces, and vinaigrettes; tuck slices into roasted chicken or fish; or add zest to pasta, grains, and steamed vegetables for a bright lift without overwhelming acidity. In baking, the entire fruit can be used — chopped skin and al — in cakes, muffins, and quick breads, where its aromatic oils add depth and fragrance.
They also make exceptional lemonade. Because Meyer lemons are naturally sweeter than Eureka lemons, they require significantly less sugar, resulting in a cleaner, more citrus-forward drink. Their juice freezes beautifully, making it easy to enjoy their flavor well beyond the winter season.
When They’re in Season
Meyer lemons are a cool-season citrus, typically available from November through March. This limited window is part of what makes them so special—when you see them, it’s worth stocking up.
How to Select
Choose Meyer lemons that feel heavy for their size, an indicator of good juice content. The skin should be smooth and thin, with a soft sheen rather than a glossy finish. Color ranges from golden yellow to deep orange-yellow.
How to Store
Meyer lemons will keep at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, where they’ll hold their quality even longer.
You’ll find beautiful Meyer lemons at our farmers’ markets from Brokaw Ranch Company, Schletewitz Family Farms, and Rodoni Farm. Be sure to ask the farmers for their favorite ways to use them—you’ll likely go home with both lemons and inspiration.
