Storing Lemon Zest
What is the best way to store lemon zest for future use?
We stored zest for a week in zipper-lock bags three ways: in the pantry, in the fridge, and in the freezer. We then compared a lemon pound cake made with fresh zest to cakes made with zest from each of the different storage methods. The cakes made with refrigerated and pantry-stored zest lacked a citrus punch, but the frozen-zest cake tasted almost as good as fresh, despite a slightly washed-out color. The -bottom line: Frozen zest is suitable for baking but, since its color fades, not as a garnish. Zest can be frozen for up to 3 weeks before its flavor begins to diminish.
