Other
key lime zest.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
ALSO KNOWN AS
West Indian Lime ZestMexican Lime ZestLime Peel
SERVING
CALORIES
47
PROTEIN
0.70g
CARBS
10.5g
FAT
0.20g
FIBER
2.8g
This ingredient is flagged as naturally gluten-free. Per 100 g, it provides 0.60 µg of vitamin K.
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories47kcal—
Protein0.70g1%
Carbohydrates10.5g4%
Fiber2.8g10%
Sugar1.7g3%
Total fat0.20g0%
Saturated fat0.02g0%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol0mg0%
Water88.3g—
MINERALS
Sodium2.0mg0%
Potassium102mg2%
Calcium33mg3%
Iron0.60mg3%
Magnesium6.0mg1%
Phosphorus18mg1%
Zinc0.11mg1%
Copper0.07mg8%
Manganese0.01mg0%
Selenium0.40µg1%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A2.0µg0%
Vitamin C29.1mg32%
Vitamin D0µg0%
Vitamin E0.22mg1%
Vitamin K0.60µg1%
Thiamin (B1)0.03mg3%
Riboflavin (B2)0.02mg2%
Niacin (B3)0.20mg1%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.22mg4%
Vitamin B60.04mg2%
Folate (B9)8.0µg2%
Vitamin B120µg0%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup96g
1 tablespoon6g
1 teaspoon2g
1 ml0.4g
1 liter400g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Provides a small amount of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the green outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
- 2Add zest towards the end of the cooking process or as a garnish to preserve its delicate, aromatic oils and bright flavor.
- 3Rub the zest into sugar for baking recipes to release its essential oils and infuse the sugar with a strong lime flavor.
- 4Incorporate into marinades, dressings, sauces, baked goods, and cocktails for a potent, tangy citrus aroma and taste.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- For immediate use, store the whole key lime at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks before zesting.
- Freshly grated zest can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- For long-term storage, freeze the zest in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 6 months. It can also be mixed with sugar or dried.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
What are the nutritional values of key lime zest?
While typically consumed in small amounts, 100g of key lime zest contains approximately 47 calories, 10.54g carbohydrates, 0.7g protein, and 0.2g fat. It's notably rich in Vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds.
Is key lime zest vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, key lime zest is both vegan and gluten-free. It is simply the outer peel of the key lime fruit, containing no animal products or gluten-containing ingredients.
Is key lime zest keto-friendly?
Yes, key lime zest is very keto-friendly. While 100g contains about 10.54g of carbs, a typical serving size (e.g., 1 teaspoon) is negligible in carbohydrates, making it a great way to add flavor to keto dishes without impacting carb counts.
How do you use key lime zest in cooking?
Key lime zest is highly versatile. It's commonly used in desserts like key lime pie, tarts, and cookies. It also brightens marinades for fish and chicken, adds a citrusy kick to dressings, and enhances beverages and cocktails.
What does key lime zest taste like?
Key lime zest offers an intensely aromatic, tart, and slightly floral citrus flavor. It's more fragrant and less bitter than regular lime zest, providing a concentrated burst of key lime essence without the acidity of the juice.
How do you store key lime zest?
Fresh key lime zest is best used immediately. For short-term storage, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze zest in a freezer bag or ice cube tray with a little water for several months.
How do you zest a key lime?
To zest a key lime, use a microplane grater or a fine grater. Gently rub the lime against the grater, rotating it frequently, to remove only the bright green outer layer. Avoid grating the white pith underneath, as it is bitter.
Can key lime zest be eaten raw?
Yes, key lime zest can be safely eaten raw and is often preferred that way to preserve its delicate aroma and flavor. It's commonly sprinkled over salads, desserts, and drinks as a garnish or incorporated into raw preparations.
