Lemon Peel

Lemon peels can be used in cooking for flavor, making cleaning solutions, and providing several health benefits due to their high content of antioxidants and fiber. Culinary uses include adding zest to dishes, making candied peels, or infusing them into drinks like limoncello. For cleaning, they can be used to create a natural, all-purpose vinegar cleaner or to help scrub and shine pots and pans. They also offer health benefits, such as supporting digestion, boosting the immune system, and improving heart health.  

Uses for lemon peels

Culinary uses

Grate the zest:

Use a microplane or fine grater to add zest to baked goods, salad dressings, pasta, and sauces to incorporate a bright, citrus flavor. 

Candy the peels:

Sweeten and candy the peels to create a chewy treat or garnish. 

Infuse drinks:

Make simple syrup for drinks or infuse high-proof alcohol with lemon peel to make limoncello. 

Add to dishes:

Use whole peels to add flavor to rich stews, and use dehydrated peels for a seasoning blend. 

Cleaning and household uses

Make cleaning vinegar:

Place peels in a jar with vinegar for two weeks to create a natural all-purpose cleaner for countertops and sinks. 

Scrubbing agent:

Use the peel itself with a little dish soap to scrub and clean pots and pans, as the citric acid helps cut through grease and grime. 

Deodorizer:

Place peels in a garbage disposal or simmer them in water to naturally freshen the air. 

Health benefits

Nutritional value:

Lemon peels are a source of fiber, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. 

Digestive support:

The pectin in lemon peel is a soluble fiber that can aid digestion and prevent constipation. 

Immune system boost:

The high content of vitamin C helps support the immune system by stimulating white blood cell production. 

Heart health:

Compounds in the peel may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. 

Oral health:

The antibacterial properties can help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause cavities.