How to Zest a Lemon

Step 1

Microplane or Cheese Grater. Using a microplane or cheese grater are the easiest ways to grate lemon zest.Run the side of a lemon back and forth over the microplane or grater being careful not to get the pith.  You may get a little added pith to your zest and that's perfectly okay. Continue to rotate the lemon until you have the desired amount of zest.

Step 3

Citrus zester. Using a citrus zester will provide longer pieces of zest. Run the zester along the side of a lemon and scrape down the sides. Continue to rotate the lemon until you have the desired amount of zest.

Step 5

Vegetable peeler or Knife. If you don't have a microplane, cheese grater or citrus zester, then you can use a vegetable peeler or a pairing knife. Carefully run the peeler or knife along the side of a lemon to scrape down the sides. You'll need to cut the pieces into much smaller pieces (finely mince) if you're adding to recipes.