Yes, you can freeze whole lemons and limes! At least for up to 3 months. After that, they start to get bitter.
Course: freezing
Keyword: citrus, citrus season, freezing, how to freeze fruit, lemon, lime
Author: Getty Stewart
Ingredients
citrus fruit
Instructions
Freeze Whole Lemons
Wash and scrub lemons well.
Dry well to ensure no moisture remains.
Place in airtight freezer container or bag. Remove as much air as possible. Freeze.
Use within 3 months.
Freeze Lemon Zest and Juice Separately
If you don’t think you’ll use whole frozen lemons within 3 months, it’s best to freeze the zest and juice separately. Frozen lemon juice in boiling hot water with a little ginger and honey does wonders for colds and sore throats.
Wash and scrub lemons well.
Zest and juice your citrus fruit.
Place zest and juice in separate airtight freezer containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible. Freeze.
Consider freezing the juice in an ice cube tray and then transferring to airtight freezer container. This is my favourite method. I like using the frozen lemon juice pucks with a bit of honey (infused honey) for hot lemon drinks when we have sore throats or need a soothing, warming drink in the winter – without the calories of hot cocoa!
Use within 12 months.
Freeze Peeled Citrus Fruit Segments
Peel, segment and place citrus in freezer bags and use within 3 months. This is a great method if you like oranges in your smoothies
Freeze Sliced or Quartered Citrus Fruit
Perfect for when you have extra lemon or lime wedges leftover after a party or taco dinner.
Just toss in an airtight freezer container or bag. Use within 3 months.
Use as ice cubes in your mocktails or cocktails, mixed beverages, sangria, or hot tea.