Zest the Citrus Before You Juice It, Then Freeze the Zest

Almost every recipe that calls for lemon or lime juice throws away the most flavorful part: the zest. Before you cut and squeeze, always zest first — it takes fifteen seconds and the fruit works exactly the same afterward.

Spread the zest on a small plate, freeze it for an hour, then transfer it to a small bag or jar. It keeps for months and adds bright citrus flavor to marinades, baked goods, and dressings whenever you need it, without buying more fruit. One habit, twice the value from every lemon.