Key Lime Pie

1 9" graham cracker crust, prepared
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 c key lime juice
1 t lime zest
3 eggs, separated
1/4 t cream of tartar
3 T sugar

Preheat oven to 325°. Blend milk, lime juice, zest and egg yolks until thoroughly combined. Pour into prepared crust. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium high two minutes. Gradually add sugar and beat on high until glossy and stiff peaks form. Pile meringue on filling and bake 15 minutes or until meringue is browned. Cool 30 minutes and refrigerate minimum 4 hours. Serves 8.

Chef's Note: Traditional Key Lime pie is not baked because the acidity of the lime juice reacts with the milk and thickens the pie filling without baking. While this holds true for tradition, it is widely known that raw egg consumption puts you at great risk for bacterial contamination. This short cooking time is probably enough to kill any bacteria lurking in your pie.