Flavoring | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Lemon Zest

Citrus limon (Peel) Allergen-Free
lemon zest

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rutaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Lemon Fruit Peel

The Forktionary Angle

"Harness the pure essence of lemon, where bright aroma meets concentrated flavor without the pucker."

Definition

The fragrant outer yellow peel of a lemon, containing concentrated essential oils that impart a bright, aromatic citrus flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteBright, Citrusy, Pungent, Slightly Bitter (if pith included)
TextureFine shavings, slightly oily
AromaIntense Citrus, Aromatic, Floral
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Essential Oil Concentration

Lemon zest contains concentrated essential oils, offering intense aroma and flavor superior to lemon juice alone.

Freezing Capability

Zested lemon peel can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months, preserving its flavor.

Source of Limonene

Limonene, a major component of lemon zest's oil, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (2g)
Calories45 kcal
Total Fat0.2g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.2g
Total Carbohydrate12g
Dietary Fiber10g
Total Sugars2.5g
Calcium55mg
Iron0.4mg
Potassium160mg

Chef’s Secret

For maximum flavor, add lemon zest at the very end of cooking or just before serving, as its delicate essential oils can dissipate quickly with heat.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lime Zest

1:1

Offers a similar bright, aromatic citrus note, slightly tarter.

Orange Zest

1:1

Adds a sweeter, less tart citrus flavor, good for desserts or savory dishes needing warmth.

Lemon Extract

1/4 tsp extract to 1 tsp zest

Concentrated lemon flavor, but lacks the fresh aroma and texture.

Dried Lemon Peel

1/2 tsp dried to 1 tsp fresh

Less potent, more muted flavor, rehydrate for better effect.

Buying Guide

Choose organic, unwaxed lemons when possible. Wash thoroughly before zesting. Use a microplane for fine zest without pith.

Flavor Pairings

Baked goods seafood chicken dressings sauces cocktails desserts marinades.

Recipes Using Lemon Zest

Vegan Weeknight Low Saturated Fat Fruit

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Seafood Main Dish Shrimp Number Of Servings

4 Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Craving a quick and flavorful weeknight meal? This 4-Minute Spicy Garlic Shrimp recipe (inspired by Rachael Ray!) is your answer! We've tweaked the Food Network classic to deliver a fiery, garlicky shrimp dish ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stovetop recipe is bursting with zesty lemon and fresh parsley. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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A1 Sauce Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Course

A 1 Slow Roasted Shredded Steak With Polenta A1

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this A1 Slow Roasted Shredded Steak recipe! Tender steak, slow-cooked in a rich and savory gravy made with A1 Original Steak Sauce and sweet boysenberry jam, is served over a bed of creamy, cheesy polenta. This recipe is a flavor explosion, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Chicken Poultry Chicken Chicken Breasts

Abby's Lemon Cream Chicken

This delightful Lemon Cream Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, then bathed in a luscious lemon-wine cream sauce, and baked to golden perfection. Serve alongside fettucine, fresh steamed zucchini, and a crisp tossed salad for a complete and unforgettable meal. It's Abby's favorite, and it's sure to become yours too!

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Beginner Cook Desserts Berries Dietary

Almond Blueberry Cobbler

Inspired by a beloved pear cobbler recipe, this Almond Blueberry Cobbler puts a delicious twist on a classic dessert! We've kept the perfect balance of sugar and flour from the original recipe, but swapped out the pears for a burst of juicy blueberries and a delightful crunch of almonds. Get ready for a warm, comforting treat that's perfect for any occasion.

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North American Reynolds Wrap Time To Make Dietary

Almond Crusted Tilapia With Caramelized Onions Rsc

Experience a burst of flavor with this elegant and easy Almond Crusted Tilapia recipe! Sweet caramelized balsamic onions perfectly complement the flaky tilapia, all nestled in individual foil packets for effortless cleanup. A Reynolds Wrap recipe, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress!

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Preparation Number Of Servings Dietary Low Protein

Altwiener Apfelstrudel Traditional Viennese Apple Strudel

Indulge in the rich, authentic flavors of Austria with this traditional Viennese Apple Strudel recipe! This delectable pastry, perfected by caterer Jennifer McGavin, features flaky layers of dough enveloping a warm, spiced apple and raisin filling. A delightful dessert, it's best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping masterpiece!

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Easy Fruit Beginner Cook Seasonal

Apple And Pear Crisp

This irresistible Apple and Pear Crisp is a holiday baking sensation! Inspired by Ina Garten's recipe, this version uses Granny Smith apples for a delightful tartness that the whole family will crave. Enjoy the warm, bubbly fruit filling topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy autumn gathering!

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Desserts Course Apples Fruit

Apple Maple Fool

This irresistible Apple Maple Fool recipe is bursting with autumnal flavor! Made with crisp Granny Smith apples (for the best tartness – ask a friend with an apple tree!), this dessert is surprisingly easy to make. The perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and brown sugar creates a delightful creamy texture that's sure to impress. Get ready for a taste of fall perfection!

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Course Cheesecake Preparation Low In Something

Apple Streusel Cheesecake

Escape the ordinary with this irresistible Apple Streusel Cheesecake! A delightful twist on classic cheesecakes, this recipe features a buttery, unique crust and a luscious apple filling topped with a crunchy streusel. Imagine tender apple slices infused with warm spices, enveloped in a creamy, dreamy cheesecake, and finished with a perfectly crumbly streusel topping. Make it ahead – it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months! Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a special weeknight treat.

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Poultry Meat Poultry 4 Hours Or Less

Apricot Lemon Chicken

This Apricot Lemon Chicken recipe creates a unique culinary experience! Forget crispy breading – this dish features a luscious, soft coating made by combining a flavorful apricot glaze with the chicken. Bursting with bright lemon flavor (adjust to your liking!), and enhanced with the sweetness of apricot/orange conserve (containing raisins and nuts), this recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and tangy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Fruit Course 4 Hours Or Less Tropical Fruit

Bahamian Papaya Rum Cake

Escape to the tropical paradise of the Bahamas with every bite of this decadent papaya rum cake! Infused with the rich flavors of Caribbean rum and sweet papaya, this moist and tender cake is the perfect ending to any meal. Our recipe captures the essence of island life, bringing the taste of a Bahamian vacation straight to your kitchen. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Free Of Something Dietary Cuisine Fish

Baked Fish With Mustard Marinade

Elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with this quick and easy Baked Fish with Zesty Mustard Marinade! This recipe, adapted from Moosewood Restaurant's low-fat favorites, delivers flaky, flavorful fish in under an hour. The vibrant mustard marinade adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal!

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Desserts Low Cholesterol Low Protein Easy

Baked Pear Ginger Cobbler Whole Grain Goodness

This irresistible Baked Pear Ginger Cobbler is a healthy twist on a classic dessert (or breakfast!). Quick and easy to make, this recipe boasts decadent flavor without the guilt. Made with wholesome whole grains and minimal fat, it's packed with nutrition your taste buds will love. A delightful combination of two family recipes, updated for modern health-conscious palates. Get ready for a guilt-free indulgence that's surprisingly light and incredibly delicious!

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Quick Breads Time To Make Number Of Servings Breads

Bakery Style Lemon Crumb Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of these bakery-style lemon crumb muffins! Bursting with zesty lemon flavor and topped with a delightful crunchy crumb topping, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Easy to follow instructions ensure baking success, even for beginners. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these unbelievably delicious muffins!

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Whole Chicken Comfort Food Time To Make Inexpensive

Barbecue Lemon Chicken In The Oven

Bring the smoky flavors of summer indoors with this incredible oven-baked barbecue lemon chicken! This recipe transforms a whole chicken into a juicy, tender masterpiece, infused with zesty lemon and tangy barbecue sauce. Adapted from Kraftfoods, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Course Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation Salads

Barley Shrimp And Corn Salad

This vibrant Barley, Shrimp, and Corn Salad is a summer sensation! Featuring tender barley, juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful appetizer. Get ready for a burst of flavor in under an hour!

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Time To Make Novelty Chicken Poultry

Basteeya Moroccan Chicken Pie

Inspired by Christine Cushing's show, this Basteeya recipe delivers an unforgettable Moroccan culinary experience. Flaky phyllo pastry cradles a savory blend of tender chicken, warming spices, and fragrant almonds. A showstopper for any occasion, this recipe is perfect for adventurous home cooks looking for a delicious and impressive main course.

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