National Lemonade Day is the first Sunday in May. Started in 2007 by computer network guru, Michael Holthouse and his wife Lisa, their mission was to empower youth to become tomorrows entrepreneurs by teaching them to operate a lemonade stand.
During this COVID-19 pandemic, it seems like the world is giving us lots of lemons. As adults, there are ways we can turn them into “lemonade”. The citrus’ versatility reaches far beyond the childhood drink. Its folded into everyday life in myriad ways, including food, aroma and decor. The fresh smell is an instant pick-me-up, as are household linens tastefully festooned with it’s image.
Having been isolated in our homes for the past six weeks, let’s embrace the little yellow fruit with so many uses to brighten up our households!
In honor of National Lemonade Day, here are a few items to make lemonade out of lemons!
Lemon Print Table Linens
When visiting French shops, I notice they often use the uplifting citron pattern on their table linens. Sun yellow and olive green tones on 100% cotton like the ones above connotes a fresh summertime meal with family and friends. It’s an easy way to spruce up your kitchen.
Place a vase of white daisies in the middle and voilà!
The History of Limones
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is know for its special lemons — sfusato amalfitano. Their wrinkled skin and amazing aroma made these limones popular worldwide. Italians cook with every part of the fruit, including its leaves.
Author Helena Attlee writes beautifully about Italy’s history of citrus in her book “The Land Where Lemons Grow.” She explores Garada’s lemon houses and bergamot groves. Although not a cookbook, it includes interviews with locals in the industry, resulting in old family recipes few have access. And we learn lemons’ place in the perfume world.
Italian Ceramic Serving Platter
One of the best meals I’ve eaten in my life was at a small cafe across the street from Lake Lugano in Italy. It was a simple homemade pasta smothered with fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper. Not only was it pleasing to the palate, but the table setting was aesthetically beautiful. Europeans take great pride in all aspects of a meal, including gorgeous plates and glassware. With online shopping, it’s easy for you to purchase the same stunning pieces to brighten up your table.
Here’s one of my favorite, easy classic Italian recipes to serve on the beautiful platter.
Chicken Piccata
1 Tbl. extra-virgin olive oil
4 bone-in, skin on chicken thighs
2 Tbl. butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
2 Tbl. capers
1 lemon, sliced
Salt & pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and no longer pink; about 8 minutes each side. Transfer chicken to a plate afterwards. Keep chicken juices and reduce heat to low.
Add butter, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and capers and bring to a simmer. Add lemon slices and return chicken thighs to the skillet. Let chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes. Remove chicken and put on serving plate. Pour sauce over chicken, then garnish with parsley.
Buon Appetito!
Lemon Crisp Kit Kats
Yup, for a limited time Kit Kat is making a lemon version. The original crisp wafers are coated in lemon flavored white chocolate. Yum! As if I need another reason to love sweets. They’re are packaged as individually wrapped minis. Order before the candy maker moves on to the next flavor.
Citrus Press
The citrus press is a staple in homes throughout Mexico, and is increasingly popular in the United States. When visiting my husband’s family in Guadalajara, his Tias squeeze fresh lemons and limes into guacamole, margaritas, pan de limon and many other dishes served at their fabulous fiestas!
Toiletry & Makeup Bags
The pandemic has travelers revising summer vacation plans to stay closer to home. Rather than a trip abroad, many American’s will pack up the car for an excursion around our own and nearby states. Whether visiting far flung destinations or the next town over, you’ll need a bag to carry grooming supplies, jewelry, and makeup. This lemon print is adorable and a great size to thrown in your weekender.
Lemon Scented Candles
My exchange student bought a wonderful London Tea & Lemon scented candle at Bath & Body Works. Each time she lit the three wicks, a lovely fragrance filled the air.
Aromas conjure memories of places we visited. This candle reminded me of enjoying afternoon tea served with scones and lemon curd when vacationing in England.
Conjure the feeling of having high tea with the Royals.
Tea Towels
After cooking and cleaning up more than usual while in quarantine, a crisp, new set of tea towels will be a welcome addition to your kitchen. Look for a brand like these pictured here with the pattern woven into the fabric, not printed. The soft cotton absorbs well, and the sunny color will remind you of spring.
The final lemon product —
Recipe for homemade lemon-scented, all-purpose cleaner.
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 Tbl. baking soda
4 cups hot water
1/2 a lemon
In a small bucket, combine vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. Squeeze in the juice from 1/2 of a lemon. Then drop the rind in as well to infuse the cleaner. Stir well to dissolve the baking soda and allow to cool.
Remove the lemon rind. Transfer into a spray bottle and label clearly. Your homemade cleaner is ready to use.
Enjoy National Lemonade Day!
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