Sicilian lemon is the healthiest fruit in the world. A survey conducted by William Paterson University in the United States, released in the middle of last year, has once again been discussed on the Internet, attracting the attention of people who love healthy food.
The research evaluated the concentration of 17 essential nutrients in 41 types of foods, and analyzed this ratio of nutrients in relation to the number of calories. Fiber, vitamin C, calcium, iron and proteins were analyzed. In the top positions are green leafy vegetables, such as arugula, chard, and spinach.
Fruits were not at the top of the list. They appear only in 28th place led by Sicilian Lemon. There are many Brazilian publications that incorrectly translate lemon as lemon. However, lemon, in English, is Sicilian lemon. Lemon, in English, is lime. But for recipes, the differences are subtle and I'll explain them.
All the winning fruits are rich in vitamin C. The researched Sicilian lemon contains 53 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams, in addition to calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. The top 5 fruits are: lemon (28th), strawberries (30th), orange (33rd), grapefruit (35th) and blackberries (38th).
Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, protects against free radicals and helps maintain collagen. The second most powerful orange, it is rich in fiber, vitamins A, C and B, flavonoids and beta-carotene, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oranges can help prevent and treat colds and flu, reduce bad cholesterol, protect against cardiovascular disease and strengthen the immune system.
Tips for choosing the best lemon:
• Use fresh lemon for the best flavour.
• Wash the lemon well before using it.
• Lemon peel can be used in recipes. The zest gives the lemon flavor without the acidity.
• Lemon juice can be used to season meat and fish.
• Sicilian lemons are milder than Tahitian lemons, and not sour.
• So, to make the preparation more sour, it is important to add more lemon.
Healthy recipes with lemon are already published here on the blog
Summer recipes
Sicilian Lemon Brownie
Detox juices
Colorful dishes
Autumn recipes
More recipes
Detox water with lemon, cucumber and mint
In a large jug, add filtered water, one lemon slices, one cucumber slices, and fresh mint leaves. Leave in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to infuse the flavors. Sip throughout the day for refreshing hydration.
Chicken marinated with lemon and yogurt
Make the marinade by mixing natural yogurt, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, salt, pepper and a pinch of ground cumin. Cover the chicken breasts with the marinade and leave them in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Grill the chicken until it is cooked and golden. Served with grilled vegetables.
Healthy lemon mousse
Blend a ripe avocado, juice of two lemons, zest of one lemon, 2-3 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup and a pinch of salt in a blender until you get a creamy consistency. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Grilled fish with lemon and herbs
Season the fish fillets of your choice with salt, pepper, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, and fresh herbs (such as dill or rosemary). Bake the fish in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked. Served with lemon slices and green salad. You can bake it with lemon slices on the bottom and/or on top.
Lemon quinoa salad
Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions and let cool. Mix cold quinoa with chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives and fresh spinach leaves. To prepare the sauce, combine the juice of one lemon with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the salad with the sauce before serving.
Homemade and healthy lemon ice cream
Blend the juice of 3 lemons, the zest of 1 lemon, 1 frozen banana, 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup, and 1 cup plain Greek yogurt in a blender until smooth. Freeze the mixture for a few hours until it reaches the consistency of ice cream. Serve as a refreshing and healthy dessert.
