Pepper 'Lemon Drop'
The Lemon Drop pepper, scientifically known as Capsicum baccatum, is a vibrant and uniquely flavored chili pepper that hails from South America, particularly Peru. This heirloom pepper variety is renowned for its distinctive appearance and citrusy flavor profile. The Lemon Drop pepper gets its name from its appearance, resembling small, bright yellow, elongated pods that hang gracefully from the plant. The peppers typically measure around 2 to 4 inches in length and have a slender shape, resembling a drop of lemon, hence the name.
What truly sets the Lemon Drop pepper apart is its flavor, which is a delightful combination of heat and citrus. This chili pepper carries a medium level of spiciness, falling somewhere between 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). The heat is accompanied by a pronounced citrusy taste, reminiscent of lemons or limes, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a zesty kick in their culinary creations. The Lemon Drop pepper's versatility makes it an excellent choice for various dishes, from salsas and sauces to pickling and even as a fresh addition to salads. Gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike value the Lemon Drop pepper for its unique taste and aesthetic appeal, adding a burst of color and flavor to gardens and kitchens around the world.
What truly sets the Lemon Drop pepper apart is its flavor, which is a delightful combination of heat and citrus. This chili pepper carries a medium level of spiciness, falling somewhere between 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). The heat is accompanied by a pronounced citrusy taste, reminiscent of lemons or limes, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a zesty kick in their culinary creations. The Lemon Drop pepper's versatility makes it an excellent choice for various dishes, from salsas and sauces to pickling and even as a fresh addition to salads. Gardeners and culinary enthusiasts alike value the Lemon Drop pepper for its unique taste and aesthetic appeal, adding a burst of color and flavor to gardens and kitchens around the world.
Lemon Drop peppers, like other chili pepper varieties, thrive in specific growing conditions. Here are the key conditions that Lemon Drop peppers prefer:
- Climate and Temperature:
- Lemon Drop peppers are native to South America and prefer warm and sunny climates. They are typically grown as annuals, favoring temperatures between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) during the day and not dropping below 50°F (10°C) at night. They can be grown in warmer regions or during the summer in temperate climates.
- Sunlight:
- These peppers require full sunlight to flourish. Aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure that they receive ample sunlight for healthy growth and the development of flavorful fruits.
- Soil:
- Well-draining soil is crucial for Lemon Drop peppers. A slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0) is ideal. Adding organic matter, such as compost, can improve soil structure and fertility. The soil should also be rich in nutrients.
- Watering:
- Lemon Drop peppers prefer consistent moisture, but it's essential not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Watering deeply and less frequently is generally better than shallow and frequent watering.
- Fertilization:
- Fertilize Lemon Drop pepper plants with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. It's advisable to provide a dose of fertilizer when transplanting and then periodically throughout the growing season, following the package instructions to avoid over-fertilization.
- Spacing:
- Give Lemon Drop pepper plants enough space to grow. Proper spacing promotes good air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. Depending on the variety and growth habit, space plants 18 to 24 inches apart.
- Support:
- As the plants mature and produce fruits, they may benefit from some support to prevent the branches from breaking under the weight of the peppers. Stake or cage the plants if necessary.
- Pest and Disease Management:
- Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Additionally, practice good garden hygiene to minimize the risk of diseases. Rotate crops and remove any affected plant material promptly.
Lemon Drop Pepper Shrimp Scampi:
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Lemon Drop peppers, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Saute Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and chopped Lemon Drop peppers. Saute for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Lemon Juice: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, adjusting to taste.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the flavorful mixture. Add the cooked linguine or spaghetti, tossing everything together until well coated.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Lemon Drop Pepper Shrimp Scampi hot, garnished with additional lemon slices if desired.