What Ingredients Are In Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

Making and applying your lemon pepper

Lemon pepper seasoning is one of the simplest spices to create. The only potentially tricky part is properly drying your lemon peel. Some recipes recommend using a dehydrator to eliminate moisture, followed by grinding the dried peel in a pepper grinder until it’s finely crushed. This results in a zesty powder that can be mixed with pepper and salt.

Alternatively, you can zest your lemon with a microplane or box grater, then blend it with either whole or pre-ground pepper. Toast this mixture at your oven's lowest setting. Afterward, combine it with salt and crush everything together. This method not only dries the citrus peel but also enhances the pepper by releasing its aromatic compounds and oils, which are essential for flavor.

While this combination of ingredients is quite effective, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra aroma. Mixing black and white pepper can provide additional depth, and if you desire a stronger flavor, consider adding a touch of citric acid to boost the lemon taste. A bit of sugar can also help balance the tartness. Once prepared, sprinkle it over chicken, pork, fish, or vegetables. You can mix it with butter for a rich sauce or rub it directly onto your protein. With this straightforward seasoning, your pantry will always be ready for delicious meals.