Lemons

A tiny little fruit with lots of power, and hidden health benefits that weren't revealed for centuries. History is unsure when lemons were first discovered, as ancient historians unfortunately did not keep accurate records of these things. Plus they didn't have pen, paper, or computers to keep track of these discoveries. It’s thought this powerful little yellow fruit originated in Northern India, and then made its way to other parts of the globe via traders. Its thought they were first introduced into Iraq and Egypt around 700BC. They then gradually spread to other parts of the Mediterranean and Middle east over the next several hundred years. They were first introduced to Europe through my favorite country, Italy. The Roman empire did have it's tentacles throughout the region, so it's not wonder this little fruit was introduced to such a large area.

            The first written reference to a lemon was in ancient Arabic text discussing the horticultural practices of the fruit. At this time it was used for decorative purposes as it’s food capabilities were yet to be discovered, and when it was, it's would soon grow in importance. It wasn’t’ until the 1500’s before it was wildly cultivated in Genoa, Italy. (of course because you know Italians are pretty good at giving the world some of the best things the world has ever known: fashion, art, architecture, and food.) As trade and exploration continued to grow, so did the little fruits expansion. It was brought to America in 1493 by Columbus. It would in time become of the top fruits grown in Florida and California.

            So what can one do with a lemon? Lots.  It’s become an active ingredient in many dishes, soups, salad dressing, drinks, and non food items as well. It's a favorite ingredient in deserts: fruit curd, lemon chiffon cake, lemon meringue pie, lemon tart, shaker lemon pie to just name a few. It’s often used as a main ingredient in main dishes as well: lemon chicken, lemon chicken piccata, and several other dishes as well. Then there are the drinks: an Arnold palmer, Bitter Lemon, which is a carbonated drink, lemon & Paeroa, and of course lemonade. Then there are the fun drinks: lemon drop, lemon liqueur, snowball, lemon sour, and a Limoncello, of course, made from Italians.

While it may be a tiny little fruit, it does carry a mighty punch, and has several uses. What are some of your favorite lemon concoctions

?