Lemon juice substitutes

To replace 1 tablespoon lemon juice, use 1 tablespoon lime juice. The closest match in sourness. Works almost everywhere.

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Lemon juice substitutes

For 1 tablespoon lemon juice, use:

  1. 1

    1 tablespoon lime juice

    The closest match in sourness. Works almost everywhere.

  2. 2

    1½ teaspoons white wine or cider vinegar

    Vinegar is sharper, so use half. Best in dressings and sauces, not desserts.

Good to know about swapping lemon juice

If a recipe uses lemon zest too, there's no good swap for the zest's flavor; leave it out.

More substitutes

Frequently asked questions

What can I use instead of lemon juice?

To replace 1 tablespoon lemon juice, use 1 tablespoon lime juice. The closest match in sourness. Works almost everywhere.

Can I use vinegar instead of lemon juice?

Yes. For 1 tablespoon lemon juice, use 1½ teaspoons white wine or cider vinegar. Vinegar is sharper, so use half. Best in dressings and sauces, not desserts.

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