Lemon Zest: Zero-Calorie Citrus Aromatics Packed with Vitamin C & Flavonoids
Finely grated outer peel concentrates bright oils, vitamin C–rich albedo and polyphenols—amplifying flavour so you can cut salt, sugar and fat.
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What Is Lemon Zest?
Lemon zest is the **coloured outer layer (flavedo) of the lemon peel** removed with a microplane, fine grater or zester—excluding the bitter white pith. It contains volatile essential oils (d-limonene, citral) and flavonoids (hesperidin, eriocitrin).
Nutrition (approx. 1 tsp zest • 2 g)
| | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | <2 kcal |
| **Vitamin C** | ~3–4 mg |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Essential Oils | ~15–20 mg |
Trace flavonoids & minerals; **major value = aroma & micronutrient density** relative to weight.
Potential Benefits
- **Flavor intensifier** allowing 15–30% reduction in added salt/sugar (use zest + herbs).
- Provides **vitamin C & citrus flavonoids** with antioxidant activity.
- Natural oils stimulate salivation & perceived freshness → helps moderate rich dishes.
- Adds aroma with **virtually no calories** (weight-management friendly).
Drawbacks & Precautions
- Waxed, conventionally grown lemons may carry **pesticide residues**—wash, scrub, or choose organic for heavy zest usage.
- Avoid removing too much white pith (bitter).
- Essential oils can irritate sensitive skin; rinse hands after zesting.
- Pre-grated zest rapidly loses volatile aroma—zest **just before using**.
Culinary Uses
- Finish **pasta, risotto, grilled fish, roasted veg** with fresh zest.
- Cream with sugar & butter to infuse baked goods.
- Mix into dressings, gremolata, chimichurri or dukkah.
- Infuse olive oil, vinegars or simple syrup.
- Combine with garlic & parsley for a low-sodium seasoning rub.
Zesting Technique
- Use a **microplane**; glide fruit while rotating—stop before white pith.
- Wash & dry lemons first; zest **before juicing** (easier while whole).
- For wide strips (cocktails, candied peel), use a channel knife or peeler, then mince.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh zest: airtight container **≤ 3 days** refrigerated (aroma fades). Freeze loosely spread zest up to **3 months**; or dry gently at room temperature and store for infusions (less vibrant). Zest before using leftover juiced halves to reduce waste.
Sustainability Notes
Using zest upcycles part of the lemon often discarded—**reducing food waste**. Choose regionally grown, organic lemons when available and compost spent rinds.
Key Takeaways
✔︎ Intensifies flavour with negligible calories
✔︎ Source of vitamin C & flavonoids
✖︎ Zest only clean, unwaxed fruit; use immediately for peak aroma.
- 1. Lemon Zest
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