Ingredient substitute
What can you use instead of lemon zest?
Lime zest, Dried lemon peel and Orange zest are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.
The quick answer
Lime zest. Use the same amount. Same function, lime flavor.
Adjust: Direct swap.
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Lime zest
Drop-in swapUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Same function, lime flavor.
- Flavor
- Lime citrus.
- Texture
- Same zest texture.
- Moisture
- None.
- Adjust
- Direct swap.
- Best for
- Any recipe
vegan
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Dried lemon peel
Drop-in swapUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Rehydrate 10 min or use directly in baking.
- Flavor
- Same.
- Texture
- Rehydrated = same.
- Moisture
- None initially.
- Adjust
- Use same amount.
- Best for
- Any recipe
vegan
-
Orange zest
Small adjustmentUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Sweeter, less sharp.
- Flavor
- Orange citrus.
- Texture
- Same.
- Moisture
- None.
- Adjust
- Use in recipes where orange works.
- Best for
- Desserts
vegan
-
Lemon extract
Small adjustmentUse ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)
1/2 tsp extract = 1 tbsp zest. Adds aroma only.
- Flavor
- Same citrus oil.
- Texture
- Same liquid profile.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Use half amount. Does not add acid.
- Best for
- Baked goods
vegan
Common questions
What is the best substitute for lemon zest?
Lime zest is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Same function, lime flavor.
What is a vegan substitute for lemon zest?
Good vegan options are Lime zest, Dried lemon peel, Orange zest and Lemon extract.
How much should I use instead of lemon zest?
It depends on the swap. Lime zest: Use the same amount. Dried lemon peel: Use the same amount. Orange zest: Use the same amount.
Recipes that use lemon zest
More swaps
Scale it to your recipe
Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.