10 Reasons to Always Zest Your Citrus—and How to Make the Most of the Leftovers

Citrus season is here! That’s right—citrus fruits are one of the few crops that are truly winter seasonal in the U.S. While you won’t spot lemons and limes growing under the snow in colder regions, fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and other citrus varieties are harvested between late October and March in warmer U.S. states like Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas.

While the juice or flesh of these zesty fruits is often the main attraction, the peel—often discarded or composted—is actually the most valuable part. The citrus zest, with its vibrant color, holds a wealth of essential oils and nutrients. This aromatic, flavorful component of the fruit is not just an ingredient for a variety of recipes; it also has potential health benefits and can be used in a number of DIY cleaning and household products. Here’s why you should never throw away your citrus zest.

10 Reasons Why You Should Always Zest Your Citrus

According to Samina Kalloo, RDN, 'Citrus zest—the colorful outer peel of oranges, lemons, and limes—isn't just a flavorful addition, it’s a nutrient-rich powerhouse. Citrus peels make up nearly half the fruit’s weight and are packed with bioactive compounds, especially flavonoids, which offer multiple health benefits.'

To start enjoying the benefits of citrus zest, all you need is a microplane, citrus zester, or vegetable peeler. Just be careful not to peel off too much of the bitter white pith when zesting.

1. Strengthens Immune Health

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) database shows that lemon peel is a rich source of fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin C. It also contains phytonutrients like flavonoids and essential oils such as D-limonene. While this nutritional profile is specific to lemons, most citrus zest shares similar beneficial properties.

The vitamin C, plant compounds, and essential oils found in citrus peel act as antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and protect the body from harmful free radicals that can lead to disease—significantly enhancing immune function.

2. Supports Oral Health

One of the standout benefits of citrus zest is its antimicrobial properties, which can help combat harmful bacteria in the mouth. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology identified four active compounds in lemon peel that exhibited antibacterial effects, particularly against bacteria linked to dental issues such as cavities and periodontitis.

3. Boosts Gut Health

The combination of fiber and D-limonene in citrus zest also supports digestive health. A 2019 study in Phytomedicine found that D-limonene promotes gastrointestinal health by increasing mucus production and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the GI tract.

As Kalloo explains, 'Citrus zest also contains small amounts of fiber that assist with digestion.' This modest fiber, combined with the flavonoids in the zest, acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome. This not only supports improved digestion but can also help alleviate digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and constipation.

4. Promotes Heart and Metabolic Health

According to Kalloo, 'The flavonoids and plant compounds in citrus zest contribute to better heart health.' This is primarily due to their powerful anti-inflammatory effects. However, flavonoids don’t just help prevent heart disease—they also play a role in supporting metabolic health by offering anti-diabetes benefits like regulating blood sugar and lipids.

5. Supports Healthy Skin

Vitamin C, abundant in citrus zest, is beneficial for skin health. 'The vitamin C in citrus peels helps with collagen production, promoting healthy skin and tissues,' says Kalloo. Furthermore, this vitamin may help protect the skin from UV damage, thanks to its antioxidant properties.

6. Helps Reduce Food Waste

Food waste is a significant environmental issue, with estimates suggesting that between 30 to 40% of the global food supply is wasted each year. While zesting or peeling your citrus may seem like a small act, every bit contributes. 'Using the peel is a great way to use the entire fruit, especially a part that would otherwise end up as waste,' says Kalloo.

7. Enhances Flavor in Dishes

Citrus zest is commonly used in cooking to intensify the citrus flavor of various dishes. The essential oils in citrus peels often pack a more concentrated citrus punch than the juice, particularly when baked or simmered. It complements both sweet and savory recipes beautifully.

Kalloo shares, 'In addition to using citrus peel as a garnish, I love adding it to water, cold-brewed tea, or baked goods like muffins and quick bread.' Citrus zest also pairs well with salt or sugar to top proteins, roasted vegetables, or even garnish cocktail glasses. It shines in pastas, stews, soups, and marinades as well. 'Since zest has a strong flavor, remember that a little bit goes a long way,' Kalloo advises.

8. Makes for Powerful DIY Cleaning Solutions

If you're aiming to save money and steer clear of the harsh chemicals in many store-bought cleaning products, citrus zest is your ally. 'With its natural antimicrobial properties, citrus zest is perfect for making homemade cleaning solutions or even a DIY scrub,' says Kalloo. 'For an easy cleaning paste, mix one cup of baking soda, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and one to two tablespoons of citrus zest. Stir to form a paste and use it to clean countertops, sinks, or tubs for a fresh and natural shine.'

9. Naturally Freshens the Air

Citrus peels not only smell delightful, but they also serve as a natural deodorizer for various areas around the house. 'A great use for this often-discarded item is to place citrus peels in or under trash bags to add a fresh scent, which you can replace every few days,' Kalloo suggests. Many also rub juiced lemon peels on cutting boards to eliminate odors before washing, or drop them in the garbage disposal to clean and freshen up any lingering smells.

10. Simple to Store

Ultimately, there's no reason not to zest your citrus, as it’s incredibly simple to store for extended periods, particularly if you don’t plan on using it immediately or only need the juice for a specific dish. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of citrus zest whenever you need it. 'One convenient method for storing zest is to spread unused zest on parchment paper, freeze it until firm, and then transfer it to a reusable freezer bag to keep in the freezer until needed,' says Kalloo.