No-Bake Key Lime Pie

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pie crust (ready-made or homemade)
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of softened butter
• 2 cups of fresh or canned key limes juice (ensure it is sweetened if using canned)
• 4 large eggs, separated (yolks and whites)
• 1 teaspoon of lime zest (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Cooking Time: None (no baking required)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate - requires precise mixing and following instructions)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (if using a homemade pie crust, bake it for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar and softened butter. Mix well until creamy.
3. Add the key lime juice and mix thoroughly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Add them to the lime mixture and blend well.
5. Beat the egg whites in another bowl until stiff peaks form and gently fold them into the lime mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
7. Garnish with lime zest (if using) and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Depending on the ingredients used, the calorie count can vary. A small slice of the pie may contain around 250-300 calories.

Dish Characteristics:

• No baking required, making it an easy and quick dessert to prepare.
• Key limes provide a unique, citrusy flavor that Americans often enjoy in their desserts.
• Refreshing and perfect for warm weather occasions or as a light dessert.

User Comments:

1. "This was such a refreshing dessert! The key lime flavor was perfect."
2. "I loved the combination of lime and egg in this pie. It was delicious."
3. "I made this for a party and it was a hit! Everyone loved the unique flavor."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure to use fresh key limes for the best flavor. If using canned juice, make sure it is sweetened to balance the tartness.
• When mixing the egg yolks, be careful not to overmix to avoid incorporating too much air, which can affect the texture of the pie.
• This pie is best served chilled, so ensure to refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours before slicing and serving.