Lemons: Zesting, Juicing, Freezing & More

by Joost Nusselder Updated:  July 24, 2022

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Lemons are a great way to add a fresh citrusy flavor to your cooking. But how do you use them?

Lemons are great in savory dishes like fish and chicken, but they’re also perfect for sweet recipes like cakes and pies. Plus, they’re a healthy way to add some vitamin C to your diet.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to use lemons in cooking and share some of my favorite recipes so you can get creative in the kitchen.

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Let’s Get to Know Lemons: The Versatile Ingredient for Cooking

Lemons are a staple ingredient in many kitchens, especially for chefs who want to add a burst of fresh, natural flavor to their dishes. They are not only a great substitute for sugar in recipes, but they also contain citric acid, which can help prevent the browning of fruits and vegetables.

How to Start Cooking with Lemons?

If you’re new to cooking with lemons, it’s important to learn how to cut them properly. Start by washing the lemon thoroughly and then cut off the ends. Slice the lemon in half and then cut each half into thin slices or wedges. You can also use a zester or peeler to remove the zest or peel for added flavor.

What Are the Benefits of Using Lemons in Cooking?

Aside from adding flavor to your dish, lemons also have health benefits. They are a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and preserve the texture and color of fruits and vegetables. Lemon juice is also a great natural remedy for cold and flu symptoms.

How to Use Lemons in Cooking?

Here are some easy ways to incorporate lemons into your cooking:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over fish, chicken, or vegetables for added flavor.
• Add lemon zest to sauces or dressings for a tangy kick.
• Use lemon juice in marinades to tenderize meat.
• Mix lemon juice with water and ginger for a refreshing drink.
• Make lemonade by mixing lemon juice, sugar, and water.

What Are Some Important Tips to Keep in Mind When Cooking with Lemons?

• Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• When adding lemon juice to a dish, start with a small amount and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Be careful not to add too much lemon juice to dairy-based dishes, as the acid can cause the mixture to curdle.
• When using lemon zest, be sure to only use the colored part of the peel, as the white pith can be bitter.
• Store lemons in a cool, dry place to help preserve their freshness.

Cutting Lemons: A Tutorial on How to Slice and Dice Perfectly

Before you start cutting your lemons, make sure to clean them properly. Rinse them under cold water and dry them with a clean towel.

Cutting Techniques

To maximize the juice and get beautifully uniform slices, follow these proper cutting techniques:

• Hold the lemon vertically on a cutting board.
• Slice off one end of the lemon, about 1/4 inch from the end.
• Stand the lemon on the flat end you just created.
• Cut the lemon in half, from top to bottom, using a sharp knife.
• Place each half of the lemon flat side down on the cutting board.
• Slice each half into thin slices or wedges, depending on your preference.

Removing Seeds

To remove the seeds from your lemon slices, use the tip of your knife or a small spoon to gently pry them out.

Storing Lemons

If you don’t need to use all of your lemon slices right away, tightly pack them in a sealed container and store them in the fridge. This will keep them fresh and juicy for up to a few days.

Using Lemons in Recipes

Lemons are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many culinary creations. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over grilled fish or chicken for added flavor.
• Use lemon zest to add a little zing to your baked goods.
• Make a refreshing lemonade by mixing lemon juice, water, and a little sugar.
• Add lemon slices to your meals for a pop of color and flavor.

With these cutting techniques and recipe ideas, you can make the most out of your lemons and add a little yumna to your servings.

Get Creative in the Kitchen: Ultimate Guide to Using Lemons

Lemons can be combined with a variety of other ingredients to create delicious dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Add lemon juice and zest to roasted potatoes for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Mix lemon juice with ginger and sugar for a quick and simple dressing.
• Combine lemon juice and chopped herbs for a flavorful marinade for chicken or fish.
• Remember that lemon juice can help keep sliced fruits and vegetables from turning brown.

Keeping Lemons Fresh

To keep lemons fresh for longer, here are some tips:

• Store lemons in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• If you only need half a lemon, wrap the other half tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.
• Choose lemons that are firm and heavy for their size.
• If you’re not sure how to pick the right size, remember that medium-sized lemons are usually ideal for most recipes.

With these methods and tips, you’re ready to start making the most of lemons in your cooking. Whether you’re adding zest to a dinner dish or juicing lemons for a refreshing drink, lemons are a versatile and beneficial ingredient to have in your kitchen.

Why Lemons Are a Healthy Addition to Your Dishes

Lemons are not only a flavorful addition to your recipes, but they are also loaded with nutrients that can benefit your health. Here are some of the nutrients found in lemons:

• Vitamin C: Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system.
• Fiber: The pulp and skin of lemons contain fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full.
• Potassium: Lemons are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.
• Flavonoids: These compounds found in lemons have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Lemons Add Flavor and Texture to Your Recipes

Lemons are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes and recipes. Here are some ways to incorporate lemons into your cooking:

• Add lemon juice and zest to salad dressings for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Squeeze lemon juice over grilled salmon or chicken for a fresh, zesty twist.
• Use lemon juice in place of vinegar in sauces and marinades for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Add lemon slices to water or tea for a refreshing, hydrating drink.
• Use leftover lemon wedges to clean and deodorize your kitchen surfaces.

Lemons Can Help You Swap Out Unhealthy Ingredients

Lemons can be a healthy swap for less healthy ingredients in your recipes. Here are some examples:

• Use lemon juice and olive oil in place of creamy salad dressings for a lighter, healthier option.
• Add lemon juice to mashed potatoes instead of butter and cream for a tangy, flavorful twist.
• Swap out traditional bread for matzo during Passover for a unleavened, lemony showcase.
• Make a nonalcoholic mocktail with lemon juice and sparkling water for a festive brunch drink.

In short, adding lemons to your dishes is a simple and creative way to boost the health and flavor of your meals. With their loads of nutrients and versatile uses, lemons are a mainstay in Mediterranean fare and can be found in unlimited recipes year-round. So next time you’re making a dish, consider adding a lemon twist to make it even more delicious and healthy.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- how to use lemons in cooking. Lemons are a versatile ingredient that can add a tangy fresh flavor to almost any dish. You can use them to add a zest to your cooking, or simply use the juice to add a fresh burst of natural flavor to your dishes. So, go ahead and start cooking with lemons today!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.