Lime Meringue Pie
A tangy and sweet lime meringue pie featuring a crisp crust, zesty lime filling, and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornstarch, sugar, salt, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook and stir until thick and transparent.
- Separate the eggs, setting aside the whites.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the egg yolks and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add butter, grated lime rind, and lime juice to the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the baked pie shell.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff, gradually adding 6 tablespoons of sugar to make meringue.
- Spread the meringue over the filling.
- Bake a few minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize the egg whites. If you don't have lime juice, lemon juice can be a good substitute for a similar tartness. For added texture, consider folding in finely crushed graham crackers into the filling for an interesting twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Lime Meringue Pie is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. Pair it with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with a light salad dressed with Orange Dressing for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Pound Cake Delight(Always A Winner) for a sweet ending to a dinner party.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from weeping. It's best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Reheat the pie lightly in the oven if desired, but be cautious not to overheat the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lime Meringue Pie contains roughly 215 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 965mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
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 lime juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lime juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it's 100% pure and not from concentrate to maintain the pie's fresh taste.
What should I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur due to excess moisture or undercooking. Ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and that the meringue is spread over the filling while it's still warm. Serving the pie chilled can also help minimize weeping.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Lime Meringue Pie is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free pie crust. Many stores offer gluten-free options, or you can make your own using ground nuts or gluten-free flour blends.
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).