How to Make Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning

No matter if you are a professional chef or a passionate home cook, it is always valuable to know how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning, as it combines the bright and fresh flavor of lemon with the pungent taste of black pepper.

In this guide, I will take you through what lemon pepper seasoning is made of, the difference between Lemon pepper and Lemon pepper seasoning, and how to make lemon pepper seasoning at home. We will also find out about how it can be stored and which other foods go well with this tasty combination.

What is Lemon Pepper Seasoning Made Of?

The beauty of lemon pepper seasoning lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can know how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning that elevates a wide range of dishes. Here are the basic ingredients of lemon pepper seasoning:

Lemon Zest: Lemon zest is the component that is responsible for the citrusy flavor that accompanies lemon pepper seasoning, and the zest is the outside skin of the lemon peel which is rich in essential oils and gives the concentrated lemon flavor of the fruit without the bitterness of the white layer called the pith. It is essential to note that in the process of how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning the zest is usually dried before being added to other components to allow longer storage and keep its freshness.
Black Pepper: Black pepper is added in a coarsely ground form for a pungent kick and spicy note that contrasts well with the tartness of the lemon. The spicy nature of the pepper enables it to play a critical role in complementing the overall taste of the seasoning. The coarseness of the pepper can be adjusted to match your taste—finer for a subtle heat or coarser for a bolder punch.
Salt: Salt is an indispensable ingredient in any seasoning mix. salt aids in bringing out the flavor of other ingredients and helps preserve the seasoning.
Optional Ingredients: Some recipes of homemade lemon pepper seasoning may include garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or parsley to add depth and complexity to the seasoning.

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How to Make Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning

Creating your lemon pepper seasoning at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the quality and proportions of the ingredients and may be more cost-effective. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning:

Ingredients:

3 lemons or 3 tablespoons of lemon zest
2 tablespoons of coarsely ground black pepper
1 tablespoon of sea salt
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of onion powder

Instructions:

Zest the Lemons:

Use a fine grater or microplane to zest the lemons and be careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath the peel. This is a crucial step in the process of how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning. After that, Spread the zest out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Dry the Lemon Zest:

This is an important part of the process of how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning.

Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, usually around 150°F (65°C), and place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the zest to dry for about 1-2 hours, or until it is completely dry and brittle. Alternatively, you can let the zest air dry over a couple of days if you prefer.

3. Mix the Ingredients:

Once the lemon zest is dry, combine it with the black pepper and salt in a small bowl.

If using additional spices like garlic or onion powder, mix them in at this stage.

4. Grind the Mixture (Optional):

For a finer texture, you can use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the mixture to your desired consistency. Some prefer a coarser homemade lemon pepper seasoning blend, while others like it more finely ground.

5. Pro Tip:

For a more intense lemon flavor, you can also dry the lemon zest in a dehydrator or use lemon extract as a complementary ingredient.

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How to Make Lemon Pepper Seasoning with Lemon Juice

If you don’t have fresh lemons or prefer a different method, you can make lemon pepper seasoning using lemon juice. This method is convenient and can be just as flavorful. The recipe for how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning with lemon juice differs from the basic recipe in using ¼ cup of lemon juice instead of the lemon zest.

What Is Lemon Pepper Seasoning Used For?

Lemon pepper seasoning’s bright, tangy flavor pairs well with many types of food, making it a staple in many kitchens. Knowing how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning will ensure various culinary creations you can use it with. Here are some examples:

Marinades and Rubs: Lemon pepper is perfect for marinating chicken, fish, and other meats. Its tangy flavor penetrates the meat, making it tender and flavorful.
Seasoning for Vegetables: No matter if you are roasting, grilling, or sautéing, lemon pepper is perfect for giving your vegetables a zesty kick.
Salad Dressings: A simple vinaigrette made with lemon pepper, olive oil, and vinegar can elevate any salad.
Popcorn Topping: Add some lemon pepper seasoning to popcorn which will make it a very tasty snack.
Pasta Dishes: Add lemon pepper to pasta dishes for a burst of flavor that complements creamy sauces or simple olive oil-based recipes.
Seafood: Lemon pepper pairs particularly well with seafood, enhancing the natural flavors of fish, shrimp, and scallops.

What’s the Difference Between Lemon Pepper and Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

While the terms “lemon pepper” and “lemon pepper seasoning” are often used interchangeably, they can refer to slightly different things:

Lemon Pepper: This commonly relates to the combination of dried lemon zest with black pepper. It is a more straightforward, two-ingredient blend that focuses on the basic flavor pairing of lemon and pepper.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This is another mix that goes further in adding other components such as salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and sometimes herbs. It is intended to be a versatile type of seasoning that can be applied directly to different food items to provide an added depth of taste.

Both can be applied in the same way but lemon pepper seasoning is more versatile because it contains more ingredients.

To conclude, “Lemon pepper” might be used more narrowly when you want a simple lemon and pepper flavor, while “lemon pepper seasoning” is the term you’d use for a pre-made, multi-ingredient blend that’s ready for use in various recipes.

How Long Can You Keep Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

After applying the steps of how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning, proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and potency of your homemade lemon pepper seasoning. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Storage Tips

Lemon pepper seasoning should be stored in an airtight container or any jar for spices.
The container should be stored in a cool dry place and should not be exposed to direct sunlight or any form of heat.
Do not expose lemon pepper seasoning to moisture as this can lead to clumping and make the seasoning have a shorter shelf life.

2. Signs of Spoilage

Lemon pepper seasoning should be discarded if the color is no longer bright or if it has a musty smell.
Other signs of staleness of lemon pepper seasoning include the formation of lumps, change in smell, and loss of strength of flavors in seasoning.

3. Extending Shelf Life

To extend the shelf life of lemon pepper seasoning, consider making smaller batches more frequently.
Alternatively, you can store the seasoning in the refrigerator or freezer, though this may slightly affect the texture.

What to Pair with Lemon Pepper Seasoning

Lemon pepper seasoning’s bright and zesty flavor pairs well with a wide range of dishes, so knowing how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy these dishes. Here are some of the best pairings with lemon pepper seasoning:

1. Chicken

The tangy citrus flavor of lemon pepper complements the mild taste of chicken, making it a popular choice for marinades and rubs

2. Fish and Seafood

Lemon and seafood are a classic combination. Lemon pepper seasoning can enhance the natural flavors of fish, shrimp, and scallops.

3. Vegetables

Roasted, grilled, or steamed vegetables are brought to life with a sprinkle of lemon pepper. It pairs particularly well with asparagus, broccoli, and green beans.

4. Pasta

Lemon pepper seasoning can add a burst of flavor to pasta dishes, especially when paired with a creamy or olive oil-based sauce.

5. Eggs and Breakfast Dishes

Whether you’re making scrambled eggs, an omelet, or avocado toast, lemon pepper seasoning adds a refreshing twist that brightens up your breakfast.

6. Snacks

For a quick and tasty snack, try adding lemon pepper seasoning to popcorn, roasted nuts, or chips. It adds a tangy and spicy flavor that’s hard to resist.

Conclusion

As for using the previous instructions on how to make homemade lemon pepper seasoning, it is as easy and enjoyable as the process itself. Making lemon pepper seasoning at home will ensure full control over the quality of the ingredients and customize it to your taste. Lemon pepper seasoning is almost as diverse as the salt and will come in handy when seasoning poultry, seafood, vegetables, and even snacks.

However, again, the most important thing when making lemon pepper seasoning is to use fresh ingredients and ensure proper storage to retain its vibrant flavor.