Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a burst of citrus flavor? Look no further than the exotic and versatile finger lime! Native to Australia, these small, cylindrical citrus fruits are packed with juice and have a unique “caviar-like” pulp that adds a fascinating texture to any dish. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the finger lime’s culinary potential, from savory tartare and marinades to sweet desserts and refreshing cocktails.
From classic pairings like salmon and prawns to more unexpected combinations like beetroot salad and cheesecake, our recipe roundup has something for every palate. So why not get creative with these small but mighty citrus fruits? Let the flavorful journey begin!
Finger Lime and Avocado Tartare
This refreshing tartare combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy zip of finger lime, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh finger lime juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, finger lime juice, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until the ingredients are well combined and the avocado is slightly mashed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Citrus-Marinated Salmon with Finger Lime Caviar
Citrus-Marinated Salmon with Finger Lime Caviar: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Dish
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the tangy freshness of citrus and the luxurious pop of finger lime caviar. Perfect for a special occasion or a light weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh finger lime caviar for garnish (about 1/4 cup)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the citrus marinade over them.
4. Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the salmon from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish each piece of salmon with finger lime caviar and a sprig of parsley.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Finger Lime and Coconut Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut with the tangy zip of finger lime, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light finish to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 finger limes, peeled and chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, coconut, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Whisk in chopped finger lime.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Prawns with Finger Lime Dressing
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing recipe that combines succulent grilled prawns with a zesty finger lime dressing. Perfect for a summer evening or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 finger lime, cut into small wedges
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Add prawns to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix finger lime wedges into the remaining marinade.
6. Serve grilled prawns with finger lime dressing spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Finger Lime and Passionfruit Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this innovative Finger Lime and Passionfruit Cheesecake, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of Australia’s native finger lime with the exotic taste of passionfruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup passionfruit puree
– 2 finger limes, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, passionfruit puree, finger lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Pour filling over crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
4. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Seared Scallops with Finger Lime Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe featuring succulent scallops and a tangy finger lime butter sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 fingers limes (or 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet; once melted, add scallops. Cook 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. Remove scallops from the skillet; set aside.
5. In a small bowl, mix together finger lime juice (or freshly squeezed lime juice), garlic, and softened butter.
6. Pour sauce over cooked scallops; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Finger Lime and Herb Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this refreshing and aromatic infused olive oil, perfect for finishing dishes or using as a marinade. This recipe combines the citrusy zing of finger limes with the savory flavors of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2-3 fingers of lime (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, and dill)
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the finger limes in half and squeeze the juice into a small bowl.
2. In a separate container, combine the olive oil and squeezed lime juice.
3. Add the fresh herbs to the oil mixture and stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solids.
6. Store the infused olive oil in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Myrtle and Finger Lime Sorbet
This sorbet combines the bright citrus flavors of lemon myrtle with the tangy, effervescent zing of finger lime. Perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons dried lemon myrtle leaves
– 2 teaspoons finger lime juice (or substitute with yuzu or lime)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, dried lemon myrtle leaves, and finger lime juice.
3. Let mixture steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard solids.
5. Chill mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Finger Lime and Mango Ceviche
Finger Lime and Mango Ceviche: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Recipe
This tropical ceviche combines the sweet and tangy flavors of mango with the unique, citrusy burst of finger lime, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light and refreshing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 finger lime, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mango and fish.
2. Pour in the lime juice, making sure that all of the ingredients are coated.
3. Stir in the finger lime pieces.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Roasted Beetroot Salad with Finger Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beetroot with the tangy zip of finger lime dressing, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 finger limes, juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beetroot in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. Peel the roasted beetroot and slice into wedges.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Add the mixed greens, feta cheese (if using), and roasted beetroot to a large bowl. Pour the finger lime juice over the salad and toss gently.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional finger lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Finger Lime and Vanilla Bean Custard
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious custard recipe, infused with the tangy flavor of finger lime and the warmth of vanilla bean. Perfect for topping cakes, waffles, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 finger lime, zested and juiced
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 170°F (75°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream, finger lime zest, and vanilla bean. Whisk until well combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in finger lime juice.
6. Strain custard into a clean bowl and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Finger Lime Skewers with Lemongrass Marinade
Brighten up your outdoor gatherings with these zesty and aromatic skewers, featuring chicken, finger lime, and lemongrass. Perfect for warm weather cookouts or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 finger lime, juiced and sliced into “caviar”
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
3. Brush marinade on both sides of the chicken.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with sliced finger lime “caviar” and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Finger Lime and Gin Cocktail
Add a touch of tropical flavor to your cocktail game with this refreshing Finger Lime and Gin concoction. The tangy sweetness of the limes pairs perfectly with the crispness of the gin, making it a perfect drink for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/2 oz Finger Lime juice (or substitute with regular lime juice if unavailable)
– Ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and Finger Lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Smoked Trout with Finger Lime and Dill Cream
This refreshing appetizer combines the rich flavors of smoked trout with the zesty tang of finger lime and the creamy freshness of dill. Perfect for a light and elegant start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked trout, flaked
– 1/4 cup crème fraîche
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon grated finger lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the crème fraîche, chopped dill, and grated finger lime zest.
2. Fold in the flaked smoked trout until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Finger Lime and White Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and creamy mousse infused with the unique flavor of finger limes. A perfect combination of sweet and tangy, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz white chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 finger limes, zested and juiced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the white chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until combined.
5. Stir in the melted white chocolate, vanilla extract, finger lime zest, and juice.
6. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Grilled Halloumi with Finger Lime Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on traditional halloumi. The tangy finger lime glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor to the rich, grilled cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 finger limes (or 1 lime)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, extract the pulp from the finger limes using a spoon or citrus squeezer.
6. Mix the pulp with a squeeze of fresh lime juice (if using) to create the glaze.
7. Brush the glaze over the grilled halloumi slices.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Finger Lime and Macadamia Tart
This sweet and tangy tart is a perfect blend of Australian flavors, featuring the citrusy sweetness of finger limes and the crunch of macadamias. With a simple pastry crust and a flavorful filling, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed finger lime juice (about 4-6 limes)
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together macadamia nuts, sugar, and honey.
4. Spread the nut mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle finger lime juice over the nuts, then sprinkle with salt.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Finger Lime and Turmeric Pickled Vegetables
This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the brightness of finger limes with the warmth of turmeric to create a stunning condiment perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a side dish. The result is a tangy, slightly sweet, and intensely aromatic pickling liquid that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower, and onions)
– 1/2 cup finger lime juice
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine finger lime juice, white vinegar, honey, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack the mixed vegetables into a clean glass jar or container.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the vegetables, making sure they are fully covered.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including chilling time)
Summary
Discover the unique flavor of finger limes with these 18 exotic recipes perfect for gourmet cooking. From appetizers to desserts, and everything in between, finger lime’s citrusy zing adds a new dimension to your culinary creations. Try making tartare with avocado and finger lime, or marinating salmon with finger lime caviar. You can also indulge in panna cotta, ceviche, cheesecake, and many more mouth-watering dishes that showcase the versatility of this unusual ingredient.
