Fresh-squeezed or bottled lime juice. Tart and floral. Essential in Mexican, Thai, and cocktail recipes.
Substitutes
Lemon Juice — 1:1. Best substitute. Less floral than lime but same acidity. Works in guacamole, margaritas, and Thai recipes.
White Wine Vinegar — 1/2 tsp vinegar per 1 tsp lime juice. Provides acidity without citrus character. Best in cooking and marinades. Not for cocktails or guacamole.
Rice Vinegar — 1:1. Milder and slightly sweet. Works well as a lime substitute in Asian dishes and light salad dressings.
Apple Cider Vinegar — 1/2 tsp ACV per 1 tsp lime juice. Fruity acid but lacks citrus character. Works in marinades and dressings. Not suitable for guacamole or cocktails.
White Vinegar — 1/2 tbsp white vinegar per 1 tbsp lime juice. Good for pure acidity in dressings and marinades, but it lacks lime's citrus aroma and is too sharp for cocktails.