Need to know: Limelights

If yellow limes are a novel concept to you, you're not alone. Here, we discover that when it comes to limes, the juicier, the better.

The term "the juice is worth the squeeze" is no doubt well-versed among baking circles.

Yet, squeezing every precious little drop out of a pricey, early-season green lime when baking or cooking up a storm in the kitchen, results in very little juice.

So, when we heard about Limelights – a juicier, Gisborne-grown and notably yellow variety of limes (no, not lemons), naturally, we needed to know more.

What is a lime if not lime green? Are all limes created equal? Is a yellow lime more akin to a lemon when it comes to taste? These were questions that needed addressing.

Unbeknown to most, all limes turn yellow when they’re fully ripe. It’s all to do with cooler night time temperatures triggering colour change. Once they reach prime picking stage, they're notably more yellow, boasting a fuller rind and full of juice.

Limelights, the yellow lime proudly grown and harvested in sunny Gisborne, are the limes for everyday and every occasion. What's more, they're not going to break the bank. Grown in our own backyard to their ripest potential, the next time your favourite recipe calls for limes, say hello to yellow.

In need of a little inspiration? Here are five of our favourite recipes that call for juicy, juicy limes:

1. Preserved Limes with Fennel Seed and Turmeric
If you're going to try your hand at preserving, look for limes that have started to go yellow, not the bright green ones. Use both the flesh and the skin of the limes in any recipe that calls for preserved lemons.

2. Little Lime Meringue Tarts
A twist on the classic lemon meringue pie, these beautiful tarts look just as good as they taste, perfect for a Mother's Day high tea.

3. Basil and Lime Granita
Crisp, refreshing and the ideal after-dinner treat for those without much of a sweet tooth, this delicious Italian-inspired frozen dessert is a crowd-pleaser all year round.

4. Three Citrus Slice
A crisp, buttery shortbread base with a sweet, tart topping of lemon, orange and lime – a delicious makeover of the classic lemon slice. Opt for a large, juicy yellow lime to ensure there is plenty of juice to go around.

5. Lime, Riesling and Passionfruit Curd Cakes
These adorable little cakes make for a perfect dinner party sweet treat. To serve, arrange the lime cakes on a tray and dust with icing sugar. Mix a little yoghurt and sour cream in a bowl and place a spoonful on top of each cake.