Times like these make me think how lemons can add a touch of color to an otherwise bland and boring meal. And since they are one of the most versatile fruits out there, it is easy to imagine how lemons can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.

Lemons originated in Asia wherein they served as important ingredients in medicines and holistic healing. They contain antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

They can also be used as household cleaning aid since they have a very low pH level. They are great for removing stains and smells from wood countertops, cutting boards and wooden utensils.

But most importantly, lemons are widely used in foods, and it can brighten a main meal, a dessert or add a dash of piquant bite to some dishes.

Here are some recipes wherein you can incorporate lemons into savory dishes: Sautéed Chicken with Olives, Capers, and Roasted Lemons, Braised Lamb Shanks with Lemon Confit and Sweet Pearl Onions, Salmon with Citrus Dressing, Preserved Lemon Citrus Chicken with Chervil Gremolata, Coquilles St. Jacques Pot Pies with Roasted Lemon, Fried Oysters and Lemon and Balsamic Vinegar and Mama Agata’s Lemon Risotto.

Some sweet recipes wherein you can use lemons are: Creamy Lemon and Raspberry Tart, Tisane Shortbread Cookies with Lemon Verbena, Bottega’s Limoncello, Fresh Lemon Mousse, Lemon Olive Oil Cake, Zesty Lemon Bars and Lemon-Lemon Lemon Cream.