Lime curd is a creamy and tangy spread that is perfect for adding a zesty kick to your dish. With just 60 calories in 1 tablespoon (19 g), it can easily fit into your daily calorie intake. Made from lime juice, sugar, egg yolks, and butter, lime curd has a smooth and buttery texture that makes it versatile for use in a variety of recipes.

Aside from its delicious taste, lime curd also offers several health benefits. Lime juice is rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost your immune system and protect against illnesses. It also contains antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of lime curd, its nutritional content, and how it can be incorporated into a healthy diet.

What is Lime Curd and how is it made?

To make lime curd, you'll need fresh lime juice, sugar, egg yolks, and unsalted butter. First, combine the lime juice and sugar in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become light and frothy. Slowly pour in the lime juice mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until it has melted and the mixture is smooth. Transfer the lime curd to a jar and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What are the Health Benefits of Lime Curd?

Lime juice is rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost your immune system and protect against illnesses. It also contains antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases. Additionally, lime juice has been found to aid in digestion, lower blood pressure, and improve skin health. However, it's important to note that lime curd is high in sugar and fat due to the added sugar and butter. Eating it in moderation is key to enjoying its health benefits without overindulging in calories.

What does 1 Tbsp (19 g) of Lime Curd Contain?

1 tablespoon (19 g) of lime curd contains approximately 60 calories, 4 g of fat, 6 g of sugar, and 0.5 g of protein. It also contains small amounts of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium and iron. While lime curd is a tasty addition to many dishes, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes to avoid consuming excess calories and sugar.

How Can You Incorporate Lime Curd into Your Diet?

Lime curd can be used as a spread on toast or muffins, as a filling for cakes and cupcakes, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It can also be used to flavor yogurt, smoothies, and oatmeal. For a healthy and refreshing snack, try topping a bowl of fresh berries with a spoonful of lime curd. Or, mix it with whipped cream and use it as a dip for fruit skewers.

How Does Lime Curd Taste?

Lime curd has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, with a creamy and smooth texture. The lime juice gives it a refreshing and zesty kick, while the eggs and butter lend it a rich and decadent taste. Some people compare the taste of lime curd to lemon curd, which is another popular fruit spread. However, lime curd has a more distinct and bold flavor that can enhance a variety of dishes.

What are the Nutritional Facts of Lime Curd?

1 tablespoon (19 g) of lime curd contains approximately 60 calories, 4 g of fat, 6 g of sugar, and 0.5 g of protein. It also contains small amounts of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium and iron. While lime curd can add a burst of flavor to many dishes, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes to avoid consuming excess calories and sugar.

Does Lime Curd have any Side Effects?

Consuming large amounts of sugar and fat can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar levels, and other health issues. Additionally, some people may be allergic to the ingredients in lime curd, such as eggs or dairy products. If you experience any negative symptoms after consuming lime curd, such as stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhea, it's best to avoid it in the future.

How to Store Lime Curd?

To store lime curd, transfer it to an airtight jar or container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. If you're making a large batch of lime curd, you can also freeze it for later use. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How Long Does Lime Curd Last?

Because of its high sugar content, lime curd has a longer shelf life than many other homemade spreads. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To ensure its freshness and taste, it's important to store lime curd properly and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for an extended period of time.

What are Different Recipes that Use Lime Curd?

Some popular recipes that use lime curd include key lime pie, lemon lime bars, lime curd tartlets, and lime curd cheesecake. It can also be used as a marinade or glaze for chicken, fish, or vegetables. For a quick and easy snack, spread lime curd on top of crackers or toast. Or, mix it with Greek yogurt and granola for a healthy and protein-packed breakfast.