When squeezing lemons

1. Make Lemon Infused Water: Place lemon peels in a pitcher of water to infuse it with a fresh, citrusy flavor. Add some mint leaves or cucumber slices for extra flavor.
2. Candied Lemon Peels: You can candy the lemon peels by boiling them in sugar syrup and then drying them out. They make a delicious treat on their own or a lovely garnish for desserts.
3. Lemon Peel Scrub: The rough texture of lemon peels can be used as a natural scrub for cleaning purposes. Simply rub the inside of the peel on dirty surfaces or mix it with baking soda to clean countertops, sinks, or stovetops.
4. Lemon Peel Potpourri: Dry your lemon peels and add them to a potpourri mix for a natural, citrus-scented fragrance around your home.
5. Lemon Peel Tea: Dry lemon peels can also be used to make a refreshing lemon peel tea. Simply steep the dried peel in hot water and enjoy!

Bonus: Ways to Use Fresh Lemon Juice

Now that you’ve mastered the art of squeezing lemons, you’ll want to make sure you know how to use the juice in your cooking and baking. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate fresh lemon juice into your meals:

• Lemonade: Fresh lemon juice is the key to a refreshing homemade lemonade. Mix with water, sweetener (like honey or sugar), and ice for a classic, thirst-quenching drink.
• Salad Dressings: Lemon juice is an essential ingredient in vinaigrettes and salad dressings. Combine it with olive oil, mustard, garlic, and herbs for a bright and tangy dressing.
• Baking: Lemon juice is a must-have in many baked goods, like lemon cake, lemon bars, or muffins. It helps balance sweetness and adds a light, refreshing flavor.
• Marinades: Use lemon juice to tenderize and flavor chicken, fish, or vegetables. Combine with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a simple, yet flavorful marinade.
• Sauces: Lemon juice can be added to sauces and gravies to brighten up the flavor. It pairs especially well with butter-based sauces or creamy pasta dishes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re making lemonade, baking a cake, or simply brightening up a salad, knowing how to get the most juice out of your lemons is a kitchen skill worth mastering. By following these simple tips—like rolling, warming, and using the right tools—you can maximize the juice from each lemon and make sure none of that citrusy goodness goes to waste.

And remember, don’t throw away the peels! Lemon zest and leftover peels can be used in a variety of creative and useful ways. So the next time you’re squeezing lemons, take a moment to appreciate the full potential of this small, yet mighty, fruit. It’s an essential ingredient that elevates so many dishes—and now you’ll know just how to get the most out of it!