Lemon Sorbet

Prep: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Bright and refreshing lemon sorbet with tangy citrus flavor, perfect for hot days or as a palate cleanser, suitable for dessert lovers seeking a cool, citrusy treat.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Combine boiling water and sugar, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  2. Let the mixture cool.
  3. Add grated lemon rind and lemon juice.
  4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch square pan and freeze until firm.
  5. To serve, let the sorbet stand at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, consider using an ice cream maker if you have one. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute with a sugar alternative, but note that it may change the texture slightly. Adding a tablespoon of vodka can help prevent it from freezing too hard. This lemon sorbet is great for cleansing the palate between courses, especially after rich dishes like Tim'S Favorite Marinated Kibum.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the lemon sorbet in chilled bowls or glasses for a refreshing dessert. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for garnish. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with a slice of cake, such as Tornado Cake, or serving it alongside Chocolate Lover'S Trifle for a contrasting flavor experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. To rehydrate the sorbet slightly before serving, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften. If it gets too hard, you can also use a fork to scrape it into a fluffy texture. Enjoy within a few weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Sorbet contains roughly 294 calories, with 9g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

294 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9g 18% DV
Total Fat 5.6g 7% DV
Carbs 53.8g 20% DV
Fiber 6g 21% DV
Sugar 8.1g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 178mg 8% DV
Potassium 310.9mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 66.3mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.9mcg
Vitamin C 22.9mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 44.9mg 3% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind that it may not have the same brightness and freshness as freshly squeezed juice. Adjust the amount to taste, as bottled varieties can sometimes be more concentrated.

How long does it take for the sorbet to freeze?

The sorbet typically takes about 4-6 hours to freeze completely, depending on your freezer's temperature. For best results, check it after 3-4 hours and stir it to break up any ice crystals. This step will help achieve a smoother consistency.

Can I add other flavors to the sorbet?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other citrus juices, such as lime or orange, for a mixed citrus sorbet. Just keep the overall liquid measurements in check. You could also infuse the boiling water with herbs like mint for a unique flavor twist.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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