Lemon is a nutrient-rich citrus fruit that’s an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 64% of the Daily Value in a 100g reference amount. It’s also a good source of other essential nutrients like folate and fiber. The fruit, juice, rind, and peel of lemons are used in a wide variety of foods and drinks, including marmalade, lemon curd, lemon liqueur, and lemonade. Lemon juice is used as a marinade for fish and meat, tenderizing them by breaking down tough collagen fibers.

It’s also used as a short-term preservative to prevent enzymatic browning in fruits like apples and avocados. In addition to its culinary uses, lemon juice has been used in traditional medicine, and its oil is extracted for use in aromatherapy and as a natural highlight for hair. Lemon trees are typically grown in warm climates and require a minimum temperature of around 7°C (45°F) to thrive. They’re often preserved in salt, which softens the peel and rind, allowing them to be used in a variety of dishes.