India’s intense summer heat calls for something light, fresh, and hydrating, and what better ingredient to turn to than lemon? Packed with vitamin C and a natural detoxifier, lemon not only boosts immunity but also adds a tangy and refreshing flavour to your meals and drinks. So, here are five easy and delicious ways to add lemons to your summer diet.
1. Start Your Day With A Glass Of Lemon Water
Drinking lemon water the first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, has multiple benefits. Squeeze half a lime in a glass and mix it with lukewarm water for best results. You can also add a bit of honey to the mix for a better taste. The lime drink helps to boost the immune system and flush out all toxins from the body. It enhances digestion while also keeping the body hydrated for those brutal summer days.
2. Use It In Cooking
Lemon is a very versatile fruit. You can use it in various ways while cooking. Its juice can be used to marinate meats, can be drizzled in salads and can also be used in sauces. Marinating meat in lime juice helps reduce the formation of harmful substances that cause the meat to age fast or develop chronic diseases. Lime juice aids digestion, so consuming it along with salad encourages bile production and also helps you feel fuller throughout the day.
3. Refreshing Summer Drinks
The main component of many popular summertime drinks is lemon. You can make several popular lime-infused herbal teas, shikanji, or a good old lemonade. These beverages cool the body, prevent heat stroke, and restore lost electrolytes. For added cooling and digestive effects, add herbs like basil seeds, black salt, or mint.
Also Read: 5 Reasons Why You Should Drink Lemon Water This Summer
4. Make Use Of Lemon Zest
Most people do not know the benefits of using lemon zest. Lemon zest refers to the thin, coluored outer layer of the peel, specifically the flavedo. This layer contains the essential oils present in the fruit and helps with digestion and skin health. This can be eaten in multiple ways, like in savoury dishes and even desserts.
5. Lemon Ice Cubes
The most convenient and quick way to consume the citrus fruit during summer is by making lime-infused ice cubes. Wash and job 2-3 lemons, blend them with water and pour the mix into ice cube trays to solidify. You can add these cubes to iced teas, water or smoothies for a quick boost of energy!
Also Read: 5 Benefits Of Drinking Lemon Water Mixed With Chia Seeds And Mint You Should Know About