lime zest

Lime Zest

Lime zest, the vibrant outer layer of a lime's peel, offers a concentrated burst of citrusy flavor, delivering a tangy and aromatic experience to any dish. It's finely grated, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that easily disperses its essential oils. Fresh lime zest boasts a bright green color and provides a distinct, zesty aroma, making it a popular choice for adding a refreshing and flavorful lift to both sweet and savory recipes. Looking for the best way to add a zing to your culinary creations? Explore the many uses of fresh lime zest!

Common Uses

  • Lime zest is commonly used to infuse baked goods like cakes, muffins, and cookies with a bright citrus flavor. The finely grated zest adds a zesty aroma and a subtle tartness that complements the sweetness of the dessert perfectly.
  • To brighten up marinades and sauces, add fresh lime zest for a zesty kick. The citrusy notes enhance the flavor profile of meats, seafood, and vegetables, providing a refreshing and tangy counterpoint.
  • Infuse oils and vinegars with the intense flavor of lime by steeping lime zest in them. This creates a fragrant and flavorful base for salad dressings, drizzling over dishes, or using in stir-fries.
  • Incorporate lime zest into cocktails and other beverages to impart a refreshing citrus aroma and flavor. It's perfect for rimming glasses, adding to mixed drinks, or garnishing cocktails with a visually appealing and fragrant touch.
  • Mix lime zest into compound butters to add a zesty element to grilled or sautéed dishes. The lime-infused butter melts beautifully, imparting its citrusy flavor and aroma to the food.
  • For a flavorful twist, incorporate lime zest into rice dishes, couscous, or quinoa. The zest will add a subtle citrusy flavor and aroma that brightens up the dish and complements other ingredients beautifully.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.3kcal (0.01%)

Protein

0.0g (0.02%)

Carbs

0.1g (0.04%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C, boosting immunity and protecting against colds.
  • Contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce chronic disease risk.
  • May improve skin health due to its antioxidant properties.
  • Can aid digestion and relieve bloating.
  • Offers anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially reducing inflammation in the body.

Storage Tips

Store lime zest properly to preserve its flavor and aroma. For short-term storage (a few days), place the zest in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the zest. Spread it in a single layer on parchment paper on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen lime zest can be used directly in recipes without thawing.

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