Zest

The Good Food Glossary

Pronounce it: ze-st

Zest is a verb, 'to zest', and also word used to describe the outermost skin layer of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes. The coloured part of the skin contains natural oils that provide aroma and flavour. Shavings of the skin are added to various dishes to intensify the required citrus flavors. The white portion of the skin, or pith, which lies just below the zest, should not be used because of its bitterness.

Choose the best

Choose unblemished, unwaxed fruits that feel heavy for their size and that are vibrant in colour.

Prepare it

Choose an unwaxed citrus fruit, hold firmly in one hand and use a zester to grate the rind. Chop the zest finely with a fine knife if preferred.

Cook it

To add flavour to cakes, desserts, sorbets and salads.

Your binder

Here are three other great reasons to sign up:

You get an online binder, where you can store all your favourite recipes and create menus.
You can add your own recipes to this site for others to try; plus, rate and make comments on recipes, and share your views on our blog.
You can sign up for our weekly newsletter (sent out on Wednesdays) - it's packed with recipes, special offers and competitions.