You Need a Table Lemon
I never managed to master table lunch when I worked in the office. No matter what I packed, the food looked bleak and utilitarian in the fluorescent light. Aside from the lighting and lack of windows, the main problem I had was that no matter what I was packing – salad, sandwich or plate – the fresh flavors were always a bit muted. But even the saddest work lunch can be brought to life at the table – all you need is a tabletop lemon.
A desktop lemon, as you might have guessed, is a lemon that you keep on your desk. Unpeeled lemons do great without refrigeration, so you can bring a few on a Monday and use them throughout the week. You’ll also need a small knife of some kind and – if you want to get really creative – a mini microplane. (Depending on office culture, you may be teased a little by your office colleagues.)
If you have a table lemon, I think you will find many ways to brighten up your day. For example:
- Start your day with a cup of hot tea (or hot water) with freshly squeezed lemon.
- Season your salad with tuna, chicken or pasta with juice and a pinch of zest (if you’re going the microplan route).
- Harness the power of two acids by adding fresh lemon juice to your salad.
- Make a sad Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Roll.
- Add some brightness to an insipid fruit salad.
If you have enough lemon left at the end of the day, just cut it up and throw it in your water bottle. I don’t know about you, but I’m more likely to drink water if it tastes like something , especially if it’s something fresh and juicy lemony.