Lemon vs Lemon Zest
A side-by-side guide to substituting Lemon Zest for Lemon (or vice versa).
Use 0.5 tbsp of Lemon Zest for every 1 tbsp of Lemon.
Side-by-side
Lemon Zest
Conversion: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp)
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Notes: Dried outer peel form; use about ½ tbsp zest per 1 tbsp lemon. Provides oils and aroma without acidity; more concentrated citrus flavor.
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Dried outer peel form; use about ½ tbsp zest per 1 tbsp lemon. Provides oils and aroma without acidity; more concentrated citrus flavor. The conversion is use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Common questions
Yes — Dried outer peel form; use about ½ tbsp zest per 1 tbsp lemon. Provides oils and aroma without acidity; more concentrated citrus flavor. Ratio: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Dried outer peel form; use about ½ tbsp zest per 1 tbsp lemon..
Lemon Zest is one of the options SubSwap lists for Lemon. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Lemon substitutes.
Looking for more Lemon substitutes beyond Lemon Zest?
See all Lemon swaps →