SWEET & SOUR

Last weekend I was in Los Angeles for a wedding. It was my first trip to the west coast, believe it or not! There are so many great things about California, but one that especially stood out was the MEYER LEMON! We were staying with cousins and in their backyard lies the most beautiful Meyer lemon tree. Take a look...

And it gets better. Beyond their good looks, their taste is just as great! It is a cross between a lemon and an orange, giving it a sweet but also a traditional sour feel. 

Why Have You Done a Good Thing?

Vitamin C, baby! Keep the antioxidants coming. Plus, by using this sweet & sour lemon to flavor drinks, you are getting all the flavor and nutrients but barely any calories.  And, if you are going to sweeten your drink a bit, at least you will be in control of the amount of sugar you decide to add, probably far less than any manufacturer would!

And you know what they say: "when life gives you lemons, especially Meyer lemons, make lemonade!" And that's exactly what we did...

Ok, so we added just a little vodka, everything in moderation! We also cut some fresh mint from the garden to use as a garnish and for added flavoring. 

To Make a great Meyer Lemonade: squeeze the juice of about 6 lemons into a large pitcher, mix with cold water and a little simple syrup (to make a simple syrup just add 1 part sugar and 2 parts water to a small pot and boil until disintegrated). Add fresh mint and a slice of lemon for garnish.

 I know it's hard to find these around New York, so do your best and if you see 'em grab 'em! I brought a few back on the plane with me and kept them in the refrigerator. Regular lemons will work too, but I can't promise that same amazing taste and smell!!

--Samantha Jacobs, MS RD CDN