Introduction
Lemon pepper seasoning is a popular spice blend that adds a zesty and tangy flavor to dishes. It’s perfect for seasoning everything from chicken and fish to vegetables and salads. Making your own lemon pepper seasoning at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
Ingredients
To make your own lemon pepper seasoning, you will need the following ingredients:
- Lemon zest: Zest of 2-3 lemons
- Whole peppercorns: 2 tablespoons
- Sea salt: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder: 1 tablespoon
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Tools
You will also need the following tools to make lemon pepper seasoning:
- Zester or microplane: To zest the lemons
- Spice grinder or mortar and pestle: To grind the peppercorns
- Bowl: To mix all the ingredients
- Storage container: To store the seasoning
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your own homemade lemon pepper seasoning:
- Zest the lemons: Using a zester or microplane, zest the lemons to get 2-3 tablespoons of lemon zest. Make sure to only zest the outer yellow part of the lemon and avoid the bitter white pith.
- Grind the peppercorns: In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, grind the whole peppercorns until they are coarsely ground.
- Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the lemon zest, ground peppercorns, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Store the seasoning: Transfer the lemon pepper seasoning to a storage container with a tight-fitting lid. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Usage
Here are a few ways to use your homemade lemon pepper seasoning:
- Seasoning meats: Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on chicken, fish, or pork before grilling, roasting, or pan-frying.
- Seasoning vegetables: Toss roasted or steamed vegetables with lemon pepper seasoning for a flavorful side dish.
- Seasoning salads: Mix lemon pepper seasoning with olive oil and vinegar to create a tangy dressing for salads.
- Seasoning snacks: Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on popcorn, nuts, or roasted chickpeas for a tasty snack.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your homemade lemon pepper seasoning:
- Fresh herbs: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor.
- Reduce the salt: If you prefer a lower-sodium seasoning, reduce the amount of sea salt in the recipe.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Sugar: For a slightly sweet flavor, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance out the tanginess of the lemon.
Conclusion
Homemade lemon pepper seasoning is a versatile and flavorful spice blend that can elevate a wide range of dishes. By following this simple recipe and customization tips, you can create a personalized seasoning that suits your taste preferences. Experiment with different ingredients and proportions to make the perfect lemon pepper seasoning for your culinary creations.
