Simply the Zest: 7 REALLY cool uses for lemon peel

If you've been slicing and squeezing your lemons daily only to throw the bright yellow peel in the bin, read on. Here are SEVEN reasons why lemon peel should be as popular as the zingy citrus fruit inside: 1. Lemon peel is a nutritional powerhouse. High in vitamin C, magnesium, beta carotene, calcium and potassium, the peel of the lemon contains up to ten times more than the fruit! Learn how to zest a lemon properly here. Then sprinkle it on salads and sandwiches and into sauces, Greek yogurt and granola.

2. It makes an immune-boosting drink: Studies have shown that consuming lemon peel in a tea could help prevent cancer cells from forming. Pop the peel of half a lemon in a mug, top up with hot (not boiling) water and allow to steep for a warming drink that can ease an upset stomach, boost your immune system and tone your liver.

3. It's a key ingredient in lemon sugar: Zest one lemon into three cups of granulated sugar. Place in a container with a lid and let it sit for 24 hours, then sprinkle on desserts or add to cream as desired. [caption id="attachment_211860" align="alignnone" width="360"]

marthastewart.com[/caption] 4. Lemon peel absorbs fridge odour: Simply place the peel in a cup or bowl for a fresh refrigerator.

5. And makes an effective kettle cleaner: Simply pop some lemon rinds in your kettle, top with water and bring to the boil. Leave the liquid sit in the kettle for an hour to remove mineral build-up and rinse well.

6. Lemon peel can even whiten your teeth: To try this one, rub the white part inside the lemon peel on your teeth before brushing as normal.

7. Cats hate it: Scattering leftover lemon peels around your flower beds is a chemical-free way to keep the neighbour's pets out of your roses.

TIPS:

Rinse your lemons in a light solution of cider vinegar and water to remove wax and other nasties before using the peel and zest.
Buy a lemon zester. If you get through a lot of lemons it'll change your life.