Lemon Imperfect Each

Imperfect lemons are one of the smartest buys in the fruit aisle. They might be a little thick-skinned, uneven in shape, or carry a surface mark, but squeeze one and you get the same bright, tart juice you are after. The flavour is in the flesh, not the skin.

Lemons are available year-round, but the best eating quality comes through in the cooler months when the fruit is heavier, juicier, and the skin is thinner. That is when they are worth stocking up on.

Look for lemons that feel heavy for their size with smooth skin and a bright yellow colour. A heavy lemon has more juice. Avoid any that feel light or have started to wrinkle.

Squeeze them over fish, stir through dressings and marinades, zest into a cake batter, or wedge alongside a roast chicken. A bowl of lemons on the bench is one of the most useful things you can keep in the kitchen.

Same lemon. Better price.