The term zest is used in relationship to citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, limes, etc.).  It refers to the outermost rind or where the color is.  The white layer beneath the zest is called the pith and is usually bitter.  Avoid the pith!

Zest is used in recipes to add a lot of flavor which comes from the tremendous amount of citrus oils in the rind.

You can get the zest of the fruit by scrapping with a knife or grating with a grater.  If you think you might end up using zest often then we suggest you Buy a Zester.

Dried zest is available at grocery stores but use the real thing when possible… the flavor is so much better.

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