Lime Zest

Lime zest is the fragrant outer skin of the lime, grated or peeled into fine strips. It is not bound by a specific season, as limes are available year-round, but they are at their peak during the summer months. Lime zest is commonly used in a variety of cuisines, including Southeast Asian, Latin American, and Caribbean, to impart a bright, citrusy flavor to dishes. It is often used in marinades, dressings, baked goods, and cocktails for its aromatic oils and tangy taste.

Lime Zest Synonyms

Lime peel
Citrus zest

Lime Zest Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Lime Zest

Dried zest

Dehydrated lime zest, which offers a more concentrated flavor and longer shelf life, suitable for spice blends and baking.

Fresh zest

The outermost layer of the lime rind, grated or peeled into thin strips, which contains the fruit's essential oils and provides a vibrant citrus flavor.

Frozen zest

Fresh lime zest that has been frozen to preserve its flavor, useful for out-of-season needs or bulk preparation.

Candied zest

Lime zest that has been cooked in sugar syrup and then dried, used as a sweet and tangy garnish or ingredient in desserts.

How to Choose Lime Zest

When selecting limes for zesting, choose fruits that are heavy for their size, indicating juiciness, with bright, unblemished skin. Organic limes are preferable for zesting to avoid pesticide residues. For pre-packaged zest products, ensure they are well-sealed and check for freshness or any signs of moisture, which can lead to spoilage.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Lime Zest

Lime zest offers a burst of citrus flavor that can brighten up a variety of dishes. When using lime zest, it's important to only grate the green part of the peel, as the white pith underneath is bitter. A microplane zester is an ideal tool for getting fine, fluffy zest without the pith. Since lime zest contains oils that are highly aromatic, it's best added towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor. For cold dishes or dressings, you can mix in the zest earlier to allow its oils to infuse the dish.

Shelf Life of Lime Zest

Fresh lime zest should be used immediately for the best flavor, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Dried zest should be kept in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed container. Candied zest can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. Frozen zest should be kept in a freezer-safe bag or container and can last for several months. Always label and date your stored zest to keep track of freshness.

Recommended Brands for Lime Zest

dried zest: Frontier Co-op

candied zest: Paradise

organic fresh limes: Melissa's

Cooking Techniques for Lime Zest

Candying: Candied lime zest can be a delightful addition to desserts. Boil strips of zest in simple syrup until they become translucent, then roll in sugar and let dry. This process preserves the zest and imparts a sweet, citrusy flavor.

Infusing: Infuse lime zest into oils, syrups, or alcohol to impart a citrus note to your culinary creations. Steep the zest in your chosen medium at a moderate temperature to extract its essential oils without bitterness.

Marinating: Lime zest is a key component in many marinades, providing a fresh, citrusy kick. Combine it with other marinade ingredients and let it sit with the protein or vegetables to tenderize and flavor them before cooking.

Popular Lime Zest Recipes

Key Lime Pie
Ceviche
Lime Zest Shortbread Cookies

Lime Zest Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.3 g
fiber: 10.6 g
sugar: 2.5 g
protein: 1.5 g
calories: 47 kcal
carbohydrates: 16 g

Flavor Combinations

Lime zest pairs exceptionally well with coconut, ginger, and honey for sweet applications. In savory dishes, it complements cilantro, chili, garlic, and seafood. It's also a key flavor in Thai, Mexican, and Vietnamese cuisines, often used alongside fish sauce, soy sauce, and tamarind.

Allergen Information

Lime zest is not a common allergen, but some individuals may experience a reaction to citrus fruits. It's important to handle lime zest with care, as the oils can be phototoxic and cause skin irritation when exposed to sunlight.