Need a little extra juice from that lemon or lime? Before you cut it, roll it firmly on the bench or chopping board, under the palm of your hand. It’s a simple trick that helps soften the fruit and makes it easier to squeeze.
Ever cut into a lemon or lime only to find it stubbornly hanging onto its juice? Before you slice it, give it a firm roll on the bench or chopping board.
Rolling helps soften the fruit, making it easier to squeeze and helping you get more of that lovely juice into your recipe — rather than leaving it behind in the fruit.
The same trick works with other citrus too, including oranges and grapefruit.
How to get more juice from citrus
1. Bring them to room temperature
Citrus is generally easier to juice when it isn’t fridge-cold. If you have time, take it out of the fridge a little before you need it.
2. Give it a good roll
Place the whole fruit on the bench or chopping board and press down firmly with the palm of your hand.
Roll it backwards and forwards several times until it feels slightly softer.
You want firm pressure, but don’t squash it completely.
3. Zest first, if you need it
If your recipe calls for citrus zest as well as juice, zest the fruit before cutting and squeezing it. It’s much easier while the fruit is still whole.
4. Cut and squeeze
Cut the fruit in half and squeeze by hand, or use a citrus juicer or reamer.
That’s it — one very small extra step before cutting can make juicing citrus much easier.
Works with more than just limes
This trick is particularly useful for lemons and limes, but you can also use it for:
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
- Other firm citrus
For larger citrus, simply use a little more pressure as you roll.
At-a-glance
Best for: Lemons and limes
Also works with: Oranges and grapefruit
Before juicing: Bring to room temperature if possible
The trick: Roll firmly under your palm before cutting
Don’t forget: If you need the zest, zest first
Give it a go — it only takes a few seconds, and when a recipe calls for every last squeeze of lemon or lime, those few seconds are worth it.
Put this tip to good use with our Lemon Drop Chilli Kingfish Ceviche — fresh, zesty and made for plenty of lime juice.
Enjoy!
