How to Zest a Lemon

It is easy to give fragrant citrus flavor to baked goods, salad dressings and more with citrus zest. The oils in citrus skin are very strong, so beware. A little bit goes a long way!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A lemon (or other citrus fruit)
• A microplane zester or small grater
• Cutting board
• Wax paper

1. Start with a bumpy, thick skinned citrus and wash the exterior well.

2. Place a microplane or a grater with small holes in the center of a cutting board covered with wax paper. This makes the zest easier to retrieve after you are finished.

3. If the grater or microplane is not free-standing, place the non-handled edge on the cutting board and tilt to a 45 degree angle, making sure the “teeth” of the grater are facing upwards.

4. Applying firm pressure, drag the citrus fruit over the teeth of the grater or microplane and only remove the colored part of the peel. Once you get to the white part, turn the citrus and complete the same action on the next section.

5. When finished, make sure to remove the zest that sticks to the opposite end of the grater. A dry pastry brush works well.

Tips & Warnings

• Because of their thin skin, key limes are not good for zesting. Stick with regular limes.
• The white section underneath the skin is called the pith. It has a bitter flavor and is not part of the zest.