Are you looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals? Lemon pepper seasoning might be just what you need. This tangy and aromatic blend is perfect for a variety of dishes, from chicken and fish to vegetables and pasta. While store-bought versions are convenient, making your own lemon pepper seasoning at home can be more flavorful and free of unnecessary additives. Here’s how you can create your own DIY lemon pepper seasoning to spice up your dishes.
Why Make Your Own Lemon Pepper Seasoning?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why homemade lemon pepper is worth the effort:
Freshness: Homemade seasoning ensures the freshest ingredients, resulting in a more vibrant flavor.
Customization: Tailor the recipe to your taste preferences by adjusting the salt, pepper, or lemon zest.
No Additives: Avoid preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own lemon pepper seasoning, gather the following ingredients:
4 large lemons (organic, if possible)
1/4 cup black peppercorns
2 tablespoons sea salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon onion powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Zest the Lemons
Using a microplane or fine grater, zest the lemons. Be careful to only remove the yellow part, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Dry the Lemon Zest
Spread the lemon zest on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow it to dry in a well-ventilated area for 24-48 hours. Alternatively, you can use an oven set to its lowest temperature or a food dehydrator to speed up the process. The zest should be completely dry and crumbly.
Grind the Peppercorns
Using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the black peppercorns. Freshly ground pepper will enhance the flavor of your seasoning.
Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the dried lemon zest, ground black pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Store Your Seasoning
Transfer the lemon pepper seasoning to an airtight container or spice jar. Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness. Your homemade seasoning can last up to six months, but it’s so tasty, you’ll likely use it up before then!
How to Use Your Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Now that you have your homemade lemon pepper seasoning, here are some delicious ways to use it:
Lemon Pepper Chicken: Rub the seasoning on chicken breasts or thighs before grilling or baking.
Fish Fillets: Sprinkle on fish fillets, such as salmon or tilapia, for a zesty kick.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite veggies in olive oil and lemon pepper seasoning before roasting.
Pasta Dishes: Add a dash of seasoning to pasta dishes for an extra layer of flavor.
Popcorn: Sprinkle a little on popcorn for a tangy snack.
