The Ultimate Guide to Keep Limes Fresh
Limes add zesty flavor to drinks, dishes, and desserts, but improper storage can lead to dryness or spoilage. Knowing how long limes last—and the best ways to store them—ensures you always have fresh limes ready for use.
Shelf Life of Limes
- At Room Temperature (Countertop):
- Whole Limes: 1 week
- In the Refrigerator:
- Whole Limes (in the crisper drawer): 3-4 weeks
- Cut Limes (in an airtight container): 3-4 days
- In the Freezer:
- Whole Limes: 3-4 months
- Lime Slices or Zest: 3-4 months
- Lime Juice (in ice cube trays): 4-6 months
Best Practices for Storing Limes
- Refrigerate for Extended Freshness – Store whole limes in the refrigerator to keep them juicy for up to a month.
- Airtight Storage for Cut Limes – Wrap or place cut limes in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Freeze for Long-Term Use – Freeze lime juice, slices, or zest for future cocktails, marinades, or recipes.
- Avoid Sunlight and Heat – Store limes in a cool, dark area if keeping them at room temperature.
- Use Paper Towels – Wrap limes in paper towels to absorb moisture and extend their shelf life.
Signs Limes Are Going Bad
- Soft or Spongy Texture – Indicates limes are drying out or spoiling.
- Discoloration – Dark spots or browning suggest overripeness.
- Shriveled Skin – A sign the lime is losing moisture.
- Sour or Off Smell – A fermented or unpleasant odor signals spoilage.
Creative Ways to Use Overripe Limes
- Homemade Limeade
- Lime Zest for Cooking or Baking
- Marinades for Meats or Seafood
- DIY Cleaning Solutions
- Lime-Infused Water or Tea
By properly storing limes, you can enjoy their vibrant flavor for longer and reduce waste. Whether you’re refrigerating or freezing them, these tips ensure your limes stay fresh and ready for use.