Description
A vibrant and zesty homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning made from dried lemon zest, coarse salt flakes, black peppercorns, and dried minced garlic and onion. Perfect for adding bright citrus flavor and a peppery kick to meats, seafood, vegetables, and more.
Ingredients
For the Dried Lemon Peel
- 5 organic lemons (to zest, or alternatively 1/4 cup store-bought organic dried lemon peel)
Seasoning Mix
- 1/4 cup coarse salt flakes (Maldon recommended)
- 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns (or 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Dried Lemon Peel: Wash and dry the lemons thoroughly. Zest the lemons carefully, avoiding the white pith as it is bitter. Spread the lemon zest evenly onto a lined baking sheet. Dry the zest in a preheated oven at 175°F (79°C) until it becomes fully dry and brittle. This drying process typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the thickness of the zest. Once dried, let the zest cool completely before further use.
- Grind the Ingredients: Combine the dried lemon peel, coarse salt flakes, whole black peppercorns, dried minced garlic, and dried minced onion in a spice grinder. Pulse briefly until the mixture reaches a coarse, evenly blended consistency. Alternatively, you can place all ingredients into a ziplock bag and use a mallet or other blunt instrument to pound the ingredients until coarsely broken down.
- Store the Seasoning: Transfer the finished lemon pepper seasoning to an airtight jar. Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its flavor and freshness. The seasoning will keep for several months, but for optimal flavor, use within one month. This recipe yields approximately 1/2 cup of lemon pepper seasoning, enough for about 96 servings.
Notes
- Avoid using the white pith of the lemon when zesting to prevent bitterness in your seasoning.
- Coarse salt flakes like Maldon enhance texture but can be substituted with other coarse salts.
- Whole peppercorns provide a fresher pepper flavor; however, coarsely ground pepper is a convenient alternative.
- Store seasoning in an airtight container away from heat and light to preserve aroma and potency.
- This seasoning blends beautifully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and seafood.
