Filled Lemons Recipe

Filled lemons are a unique and flavorful dish that combines the tangy citrus flavor of lemons with savory sardines and anchovies. This recipe has a long history, originating from Mediterranean cuisine. Filled lemons are a great appetizer or snack, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. They are easy to make and require only a few ingredients. Let's dive into the recipe!

To make filled lemons, you will need the following ingredients:

- Good-sized lemons
- 1 box of boneless sardines
- 6 anchovies
- 2 green peppers
- Lemon juice
- Pimentos
- Horseradish
- Watercress
- Doilies (for serving)

Now, here's how to prepare filled lemons:

1. Start by selecting good-sized lemons. These should be firm and juicy. Cut off the tip of the lemon to create a stable base for them to stand upright. Then, cut off the top of the lemon to use as a cover later on.

2. Carefully scoop out all the lemon pulp using a spoon and put it in a bowl. Be sure to remove all the pulp, leaving only the lemon shells.

3. Place the lemon shells in a bowl of cold water and let them soak while you prepare the filling.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the boneless sardines, anchovies, and green peppers. Finely chop the green peppers and mix them with the sardines and anchovies.

5. Wet the filling mixture with lemon juice until it becomes moist. The lemon juice will enhance the flavors of the sardines and anchovies.

6. Take the lemon shells out of the water and dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. It's essential to remove excess moisture to ensure the filling sticks well.

7. Fill each lemon shell with the sardine and anchovy mixture. Pack it tightly to make sure it stays in place.

8. Place a pimento on top of each filled lemon. The vibrant red color and slightly sweet flavor will add a beautiful touch to the dish.

9. Put the lemon top back on each filled lemon, completing the look of a whole lemon.

10. To serve, place the filled lemons on a doily for an elegant presentation. Accompany them with horseradish and watercress, which will provide additional flavors and textures.

Now, sit back and enjoy the delightful combination of tangy lemon, savory sardines, and anchovies in every bite. Filled lemons are a refreshing and zesty treat that will surprise your taste buds!

Fun Fact: Filled lemons have been prepared in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. They are known for their unique presentation and mix of flavors. This recipe is a creative way to use lemons and demonstrate the versatility of this citrus fruit.

Similar Recipe Dishes: If you enjoy filled lemons, you might also like stuffed tomatoes or bell peppers. These dishes follow a similar concept of hollowing out the vegetable and filling it with a delicious mixture. Stuffed tomatoes are often filled with rice, meat, and various herbs, while stuffed bell peppers can be filled with a combination of ground meat, rice, veggies, and cheese. These dishes offer a satisfying and flavorful meal option.

Get creative with your fillings and experiment with different combinations of ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you choose filled lemons, stuffed tomatoes, or bell peppers, these dishes are a delightful way to showcase fresh produce and enjoy a burst of flavors in each bite.