Pronunciation: [lˈɛmən zˈɛst] (IPA) 
The term "lemon zest" refers to the outer layer of skin on a lemon. It is commonly used in cooking to add a citrus flavor to dishes. The spelling of "lemon zest" is simple, with each word being spelled phonetically. "Lemon" is spelled lɛmən, and "zest" is spelled zɛst. When pronounced together, the phrase sounds like "LEH-muhn ZEHST." Adding lemon zest to recipes is an easy way to add depth and complexity to dishes.
Lemon zest refers to the outer layer of the peel of a lemon. It is derived by carefully removing the colored portion of the peel, containing the aromatic oils and flavor compounds that give the fruit its characteristic citrusy scent and tangy taste. The process usually involves grating the peel using a fine-toothed tool, such as a zester or a microplane, while avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
Lemon zest possesses a vibrant, intense aroma and imparts a distinctive citrus flavor to dishes, making it a popular ingredient in cooking and baking. Its bright and zesty profile is known to enhance the taste of both sweet and savory recipes. Often used as a garnish or ingredient in beverages, salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and desserts, lemon zest can add a fresh, tangy element to a wide range of culinary creations.
Aside from its culinary purposes, lemon zest is also valued for its potential health benefits. It is rich in essential oils and bioactive compounds like limonene, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties are believed to offer various health advantages, such as potential digestive benefits and immune system support.
Overall, lemon zest is a versatile and aromatic ingredient that provides a concentrated burst of lemon flavor to enhance the taste and aroma of many dishes, along with potential health benefits.
The word "lemon zest" consists of two components: "lemon" and "zest".
- Lemon: The word "lemon" originated from the Old French word "limon", which came from the Arabic word "laymūn" or "līmūn". The Arabic term itself traces back to Persian "līmūn" and Sanskrit "nimbū".
- Zest: The word "zest" comes from the Old French "zeste", meaning "orange or lemon peel". It further derives from the Latin word "schistos" or "scestos", meaning "to split" or "to cleave". This is because the outer layer of the citrus peel was often split or cut to extract the aromatic oils.
