What can you do with a lemon besides making lemonade?

Ah, the versatile lemon! Lemons are far more than just lemonade material. Here are some ideas:

Cooking and Baking:

* Flavor enhancer: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up sauces, soups, marinades, salad dressings, and even desserts.

* Baking ingredient: Lemon zest adds a vibrant citrus flavor to cakes, cookies, muffins, and frostings.

* Seafood: Lemons pair beautifully with fish and shellfish, both in cooking and as a garnish.

* Chicken and poultry: Lemon juice tenderizes and adds a delicious tang to chicken and turkey dishes.

* Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus and broccoli become even more flavorful with a squeeze of lemon.

Health and Beauty:

* Cleanse and detox: Drink lemon water first thing in the morning to help with digestion and hydration.

* Skin care: Lemon juice can be used as a natural astringent, helping to brighten skin and reduce blemishes.

* Hair care: Lemon juice can help to clarify and brighten hair, removing product buildup and leaving hair shiny.

* Cleaning: Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and can be used to clean surfaces, remove stains, and even brighten laundry.

Other Uses:

* Insect repellent: The scent of lemon can deter insects. Place lemon peels around your home or garden.

* Air freshener: Boil lemon peels in water to create a refreshing scent for your home.

* Candle making: Add lemon zest or essential oil to candles for a citrusy fragrance.

* Homemade cleaning products: Combine lemon juice with baking soda to create a powerful natural cleaner.

* Cocktail ingredient: Lemons are essential for many classic cocktails, like margaritas, mojitos, and lemon drops.

This is just a small sampling of the many ways you can use lemons. With a little creativity, you can find countless ways to enjoy this flavorful and versatile fruit.