Removing Zest from Citrus Fruit

Zest is the colorful outer portion of citrus fruit peel (the bitter white portion underneath is called pith). The zest can be used to flavor a variety of foods, so it's great to have on hand. Before peeling or juicing any citrus fruit, remove the zest with a small grater or citrus zester or stripper, avoiding the pith. If the zest has been removed in strips, chop it into fine pieces. Then place in a resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 6 months. When needed for a recipe, measure only as much zest as needed and return the rest to the freezer.