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lemon peel

ProduceLemons are harvested year-round in major growing regions such as California, Spain, and Italy, with peaks during winter and early spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

Lemon peel is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and flavonoid antioxidants, particularly when the zest is consumed. It also contains limonene and other volatile compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

About

Lemon peel refers to the outer zest and white pith of the Citrus limon fruit, a small yellow citrus native to Asia and now cultivated worldwide. The peel comprises two distinct layers: the thin, colored zest containing essential oils and pigments, and the thicker white pith beneath, which is bitter and less flavorful. The zest is highly aromatic with a bright, tart citrus flavor due to its concentration of volatile compounds including limonene, while the pith is characteristically bitter. Lemon peel may be used fresh, dried, candied, or processed into powders and extracts.

Culinary Uses

Lemon peel is valued for both its aromatic zest and its preserved forms across numerous cuisines. The fresh zest is grated or minced to brighten sweet and savory dishes, including baked goods, pasta, seafood preparations, and beverages. Candied lemon peel appears in desserts, confections, and as a garnish; dried peel is infused into teas, mulled wines, and stocks; and peel powder seasons spice blends and rubs. The white pith, though bitter, is sometimes preserved in marmalade or used to extract pectin for jams.

Recipes Using lemon peel (75)

RCI-ND.001.0329.001

Penne with Summer Squash

Penne with Summer Squash from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0577.001

Pepperpot

Pepperpot from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.004.0616.001

Pineapple Rice Parfaits

Makes 8 servings

RCI-SN.004.1430.001

Placek Swiateczny

Christmas bread cake Placek Swiateczny Makes 1 loaf

RCI-BR.004.0714.001

Poppyseed Cake

Poppyseed Cake from the Recidemia collection

RCI-BR.006.0259.001

Poppy Seed Kolache

60 pieces Poppy Seed Kolache

RCI-RC.001.0044.001

Pork Chops and Fruited Pilaf

Makes 4 servings

RCI-SP.001.0285.001

Pork Chops with Rice Royale

Makes 2 servings

RCI-SN.001.0024.001

Red and White Onion Tapenade

Prep. Time: 10 min. Cook Time: 0 min.

RCI-BR.006.0448.001

Rhubarb-Pineapple Crumble

Serves 6 – 8

RCI-DS.001.0098.001

Rice Pudding I

Rice Pudding I from the Recidemia collection

RCI-ND.001.0101.001

Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Wadley Estate in Allen, Texas in 1990.

RCI-VG.003.0212.001

Shrimp and Orzo Casserole

Orzo is an ideal candidate for a baked pasta dish because it doesn't need to be cooked first; simply cover and cook the casserole for 15 minutes before adding the topping.

RCI-SN.004.1083.001

Sinful Spuds

Do ahead: The feta mixture can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated, but don't add pine nuts until the last minute. Bring the mixture to room temperature before stuffing potatoes. The potatoes can be stuffed up to 4 hours in advance.

RCI-SN.001.0373.001

Strawberries with Fresh Lemon-Poppy Seed Dip

Strawberries with Fresh Lemon-Poppy Seed Dip from the Recidemia collection

RCI-BR.006.0265.001

Strawberry Crown Tart

Strawberry Crown Tart from the Recidemia collection

RCI-BR.006.0539.001

Strawberry Lemondrift Pie

Strawberry Lemondrift Pie from the Recidemia collection

RCI-BV.004.0823.001

Strawberry Rice Zabaglione

Makes 8 servings.

RCI-BR.005.0102.001

Sugar Cookies II

Sugar Cookies II from the Recidemia collection

RCI-BV.004.0802.001

Sweet Lemon Butter

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Hoffman Estate in Grand Prairie, Texas in 1992.

RCI-BR.003.0081.001

Tea Scones

Tea Scones from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.001.0260.001

Tri-Color Avocado and Corn Salsa

This mixture of fresh avocado, golden corn, red and green bell peppers is perfect to serve on turkey tacos, quesadillas, fajitas and can also be served anytime of the year over grilled fish or chicken.

RCI-DS.001.0204.001

Velvet Rice Pudding with Strawberry Sauce

Makes 8 servings.

RCI-SF.001.0376.001

Wild Salmon Rillettes

Thanks to its high oil content, wild salmon—the star of this delicious spread—boasts a rich, creamy flavor and numerous health benefits. If wild salmon is unavailable, you can substitute farm-raised salmon.

RCI-BV.003.0353.001

Yogurt coffee cake

Yogurt coffee cake from the Recidemia collection