To make 12 cups of juice, you’ll need about 48 to 60 limes, depending on their juiciness and size, averaging 1/4 cup juice per lime.
Fresh lime juice adds vibrant flavor to cocktails, marinades, and recipes. But how many limes do you need for 1/2 cup of juice? The answer is 12-15 limes. This guide explains lime juice yields, picking tips, and juicing techniques.
How Much Juice Is in One Lime?
On average, one lime contains about 2 tablespoons (1 fl oz) of juice. This means:
- 1 lime = 2 tablespoons juice
- 8 limes = 1 cup juice
- 12-15 limes = 1/2 cup juice
Lime sizes vary slightly, but most grocery store limes yield similar amounts. For consistent results, use a citrus juicer to extract maximum liquid.
How to Pick the Best Limes
Follow these tips when selecting limes for juicing:
1. Check Firmness
Firmer limes contain more juice. Avoid soft or squishy fruits.
2. Look for Smooth Skin
Taut, smooth rinds indicate plump, juicy interiors.
3. Choose Vibrant Green Color
Deep green limes are riper than yellow-green ones.
4. Compare Weight
Heavier limes typically have higher juice content.
How to Juice Limes Efficiently
Extract the most juice with these steps:
- Roll limes firmly on a countertop to break inner membranes.
- Cut limes in half crosswise.
- Use a handheld or electric citrus juicer to press halves.
- Strain seeds if needed.
For large batches, consider a high-volume juicing method to save time.
Lime Juice Storage Tips
Fresh lime juice lasts:
- 2-3 days refrigerated
- 4-6 months frozen
Freeze juice in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
Common Lime Juice Uses
Popular recipes calling for 1/2 cup lime juice include:
| Recipe | Limes Needed |
|---|---|
| Key lime pie | 12-15 |
| Margaritas (gallon batch) | 12-15 |
| Ceviche | 12-15 |
| Limeade | 12-15 |
For cocktail recipes like margaritas, fresh juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
Scaling Lime Juice Quantities
Use this quick reference for other measurements:
- 1/4 cup juice = 6-8 limes
- 1 cup juice = 24-30 limes
- 1 gallon juice = 192-240 limes
When juicing large quantities, consider investing in a commercial juicer for efficiency.
