When life gives you lemons, why not extract the most juice from them? Lemons are versatile fruits that hold many health benefits and add an amazing zesty flavor to dishes and drinks. However, sometimes it can be challenging to get the maximum juice possible from them. Worry not – here are three efficient ways to squeeze more juice out of your lemons.

1. Roll the Lemon Before Cutting It

The first step to get more juice from a lemon is to use pressure with the palm of your hand while rolling it on a countertop or table. Doing so helps break down the membranes within the lemon and releases more juice when squeezing. To achieve this, apply light pressure while pushing down on the lemon and roll it back and forth several times. This action will lead to an easier extraction process when you eventually cut and squeeze the lemon.

2. Microwave Your Lemons

When you’re in a hurry and need a quick method for juicing your lemons, consider microwaving them for a short period. Heating lemons slightly helps soften their flesh and increases their juiciness. Place your lemon(s) in the microwave for 10-30 seconds, depending on their size and your microwave’s power capacity.

Keep in mind that you’re aiming for warmth rather than cooking them fully. To avoid overheating, turn the lemons halfway through their allotted time in the microwave. Once heated (but not too hot), roll them on the countertop using the first method described above before cutting and squeezing them.

3. Use a Citrus Juicer or Reamer

Using a citrus juicer or reamer can make extracting juice from lemons significantly easier and more effective than doing it by hand alone. A citrus juicer provides mechanical support that allows you to press down firmly on the fruit, while its ridges help release more juice from within.

If you’re using a reamer, cut the lemon in half and hold the reamer over a bowl or container. Press the cut side of the lemon onto the reamer and twist it back and forth, making sure to press firmly to extract maximum juice. If opting for a citrus juicer, cut the lemon in half, place it on the juicer’s ridged dome, and press down while turning it to release the juice.

Implementing any or all of these techniques will help you get more juice out of your lemons for various recipes or your daily dose of vitamin C. Embrace these methods and enjoy every last drop your lemons have to offer.