Orange zest is a fantastic ingredient that can add a burst of fresh citrus flavor to almost any dish, but what do you do with all that leftover zest? Throwing it away is a waste, but luckily there are many creative ways to give your zest a second life!
Whether you have a surplus of citrus from a recent baking project or just don’t want to waste that peel after juicing, this article will give you plenty of inspiration for how to use up your leftover orange zest. From sweet treats to savory dishes, there are endless possibilities for this versatile ingredient.
Creative Culinary Uses for Orange Zest
Orange zest is a versatile ingredient that can add a zing to your cooking. When it comes to creative culinary uses for orange zest, the possibilities are endless. From sweet desserts to savory dishes, here are some ideas to inspire you.
For a surprising twist on classic desserts, incorporate orange zest into your baking. Add it to your cake or muffin batter, or sprinkle some over your morning pancakes. You can also infuse orange zest into your creamy desserts like ice cream or cheesecake. For savory dishes, orange zest works well with meats, particularly chicken and fish. It adds a citrusy freshness to marinades and sauces. You can also experiment with adding orange zest to your salads or soups for an extra burst of flavor. With these uses, you’ll be able to turn leftover orange zest into delicious dishes that your family and friends will love.
Health Benefits of Orange Zest Consumption
Orange zest is the outermost layer of an orange’s peel and is often discarded after fruit consumption. However, orange zest contains bioactive compounds that have a range of health benefits. The most notable health benefit of consuming orange zest is its high vitamin C content. A tablespoon of orange zest contains approximately 13.6 mg of vitamin C, which is 22% of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and enhances the absorption of iron.
Another benefit of consuming orange zest is that it is a good source of fiber. Research has shown that a high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer. The flavonoids present in orange zest have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties that can lower oxidative stress in the body. Moreover, orange zest consumption has been linked to weight loss and improved digestive health. In conclusion, adding orange zest to meals and drinks is a simple and efficient way to obtain essential nutrients while improving overall health.
DIY Household Cleaners Featuring Orange Zest
Orange zest is one of those ingredients that we often use in small quantities as a finishing touch to enhance the flavor of a dish. However, once you’ve used what you need, don’t throw away the leftover zest as it can be used for a variety of household cleaning purposes. DIY household cleaners featuring orange zest are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly.
The citrus scent of orange zest makes it an excellent ingredient for household cleaners. You can use it to make an all-purpose cleaner that will leave your surfaces sparkling clean and smelling fresh. Simply place the orange zest in a jar, cover it with white vinegar, and allow it to infuse for two to four weeks. Strain the mixture and dilute it with water before using it to clean your countertops, floors, or windows. You can also add a few drops of essential oils like lemon or lavender for an extra boost of fragrance.
Orange Zest Infused Cocktails and Mocktails
Orange zest can add a tangy and vibrant flavor to any cocktail or mocktail. If you have leftover orange zest, why not try infusing it into your favorite drinks? You can add it to vodka, gin, or even tequila to create a refreshing and citrusy twist on classic cocktails like the martini or margarita.
For a non-alcoholic option, simply add the zest to lemonade, a soda, or even sparkling water for a tasty and healthy refreshment. You can also mix and match flavors by adding other fruits like strawberries or pineapple to create a unique and delicious drink. So next time you have some leftover orange zest, don’t throw it away, instead, use it to add some extra flavor to your drinks and elevate your cocktail or mocktail game.
Beauty and Skincare Benefits of Orange Zest
Orange zest doesn’t just add flavor to your dishes, it also has several benefits for your skin and beauty routine. The high vitamin C content in orange zest makes it a great ingredient for brightening and evening out skin tone. It also contains natural fruit acids that help exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing a smoother complexion.
You can use orange zest in homemade skincare treatments such as facial masks, body scrubs, and bath soaks. To make a simple facial mask, mix orange zest with honey and aloe vera gel and apply it on your face for 15-20 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water and pat your face dry. This mask is excellent for reducing inflammation caused by acne and soothing irritated skin. You can also add orange zest to your bathwater for an invigorating and skin-nourishing soak.
Orange Zest in Baked Goods and Desserts
Orange zest can add a burst of citrus flavor to any baked good or dessert. The zest’s bright and bold taste complements the sweet notes of cakes, tarts, and pastries. Adding orange zest to your desserts can take them from ordinary to extraordinary.
You can add orange zest to almost any dessert, including cookies, brownies, muffins, and cakes. The simplest way to use orange zest is to add it to a cake batter or to mix it in with cookie dough. It can also be sprinkled on top of desserts for added flavor and aesthetic appeal. Orange zest can also be used to make citrus-infused whipped cream or frosting. With the addition of orange zest, your baked goods and desserts are sure to stand out and impress your guests.
How to Store and Preserve Orange Zest for Future Use
Storing and preserving orange zest is crucial to maintain its freshness and flavor for future use. The best way to store orange zest is to place it in an airtight container and store it in a cool and dry place. You can also store it in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Preserving orange zest is another option to extend its availability and use. You can mix orange zest with sugar and store it in an airtight container for up to six months. Another method is to freeze the zest in an ice cube tray with some water, allowing you to use it as needed. By following these storage and preservation methods, you can make the most of your leftover orange zest by using it in a variety of dishes and enhancing their flavor with the fruity essence of the zest.
The Conclusion
Orange zest is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways. If you have leftover orange zest, you can add it to sweet or savory dishes to give them a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also use it to infuse oils or vodka for cocktails. Additionally, you can dry the orange zest and use it as a seasoning or in tea blends.
Overall, orange zest is a valuable ingredient that should not go to waste. By using leftover orange zest creatively, you can add new flavors and aromas to your meals and drinks. Whether you choose to add it to baked goods, salad dressings, or marinades, orange zest is sure to enhance your culinary creations. So, instead of throwing away your leftover orange zest, consider trying one of these ideas and experience the versatility and deliciousness of this simple ingredient.