Can I use grapefruit instead of lemon in shrimp scampi?

Question

I do not have any lemons! Can I substitute grapefruit instead of lemon in a lemon, garlic butter recipe for shrimp scampi?

Answer 1

Sure, you can use grapefruit. However, it will have the taste of grapefruit, rather than lemon. It will still be a version of shrimp scampi, not traditional...maybe delicious?

Answer 2

I was once told a secret by a cook: all citrus fruits are substitutable, What's more, they should always be used in combination. "Never use only one citrus!"

I have found this produces excellent results. The most common response is "Wow! that's the best ...... I've ever had!" You guests expect the usual but get something a bit different.

It is as simple as spiking the lemon juice with lime.

• moscafj: Sorry....just don't buy this. I don't want lemon, orange, or grapefruit in my pico de gallo, for example. In addition, there are different acid components to varying citrus, impacting flavor as well. A substitution or combination might certainly be workable...or delicious...but they are not direct substitutes and "never use only one" would never be the mantra of an experienced cook.
• Questor: "It is as simple as spiking the lemon juice with lime." As lemons are inferior to limes. It makes sense that adding lime would improve the taste.... I have yet to find a dish where using limes instead of lemons was a bad idea... But I might be biased in favor of limes (my favorite citrus).