What is the Difference Between Lime and Key Lime?

The main differences between limes and key limes are their size, color, flavor, and culinary uses. Here are the key distinctions:

1. Size: Key limes are smaller and more spherical than regular limes, averaging about 1 ounce in weight, while regular limes (also known as Persian limes) weigh around 3 ounces.
2. Color: Key limes are light yellow when ripe, while regular limes are green.
3. Flavor: Key limes have a more acidic and intense, tangy taste, often described as more "lime-y" and floral. Regular limes have a milder, less tart flavor.
4. Texture: Key limes have a thinner skin than regular limes and contain more seeds.
5. Culinary Uses: Due to their distinct flavor, key limes are often used in sweetened-up desserts like key lime pie, cupcakes, or thumbprint cookies. Regular limes can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from salads and cocktails to desserts.

While both types of limes can be used interchangeably in many recipes, key limes are particularly prized for their unique flavor in certain dishes.

Comparative Table: Lime vs Key Lime

The main differences between lime and key lime are their size, flavor, acidity, and aroma. Here is a table comparing the two:

Lime, also known as Persian lime, is larger and has thick, bright green skin. It contains fewer seeds and less juice per lime compared to key lime. Lime has a slightly sweeter and less tart flavor, with less aroma than key lime.

Key lime, also known as Mexican lime or West Indian lime, is smaller, rounder, and has thin, light yellow skin when ripe. It contains more seeds and has a more intense, tangy, and floral flavor than lime. Key lime is prized for its aromatic and tart juice, which is often used in desserts like key lime pie.