Citrus...

You know those Orange Peels or Lemon Halves we see sitting around when we are done with the citrus? Well here are some great tips you can do to make good of these things...

Gremolata - Take and cut 1 cup of Flat Leaf Parsley and transfer into a bowl, add 1 tbls. finely grated lemon zest and 1 clove minced garlic...sprinkle this over simmering stews, braised meats to add freshness.



Orange Sugar - Take one Orange and cut into length wise strips of zest....bury the strips in a jar of granulated sugar. Store this in an airtight container in a dark space for 2 weeks before you open. Use the sugar (always small amounts) in whipped cream, yogurt or cakes, etc..

Grilled Lemon Halves - Cut Lemons into halves and grill cut side down to carmalize their sugar and mellow the acidity (no grill) then heat 1 tbsp (light) oil in a skillet, heat and sear...Squeeze the warm lemon juice over chicken, steak...etc...what you can think of.

Citrus Chips - On a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange thin Citrus slices (single layer). Bake at 175* until they are dried, 2-3 hours. Cool and store in airtight container at room temp. Use these as a garnish or even dip in chocolate.

- Finely grate zest onto a sheet of parchment paper and microwave 1-2 min. until dry, let cool. Store the zest airtight at room temp. Use to stir into breadcrumbs, sauces, salt or even ground pepper.