VANILLAGOODS / FRESH MARKET BUYING GUIDE
Key limes: Buying, Storage & Baking Guide
Learn how to choose, store, and bake with key limes, with quality checks and U.S. season guidance.
Citrus
Look for
Intact peel; color varies by variety and growing conditions
Feel & texture
Heavy for size, firm with some natural give
Aroma
Fresh citrus aroma, especially when peel is gently rubbed
What to avoid
Soft rotten patches, mold, leaking or rancid odors
How to store
Refrigerate for extended storage
Typical U.S. season
Typical U.S. months: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Growing regions and availability
High-level growing suitability depends on variety, climate and local conditions.
Seasons and growing conditions vary by location and variety. Imported or stored ingredients may be available outside typical growing windows.
Visual buying guide
Where it grows
Pick this one
Intact peel; color varies by variety and growing conditions
Skip this one
Soft rotten patches, mold, leaking or rancid odors
What can you bake with Key limes?
Zest, curds, marmalades and citrus cakes
Explore key lime recipes →
