Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Lemon Pepper Seasoning is boldly flavored with real lemon zest and a medley of simple spices. Once you try this mouthwatering seasoning blend, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff ever again. I always keep a jar of this on my spice rack!
Lemon Pepper Seasoning
If you know anything about me, you know that I’m a DIY kind of girl – especially when it comes to my seasonings. While there are plenty of store-bought blends that are just fine, I’ve found that none of them can hold a candle to my homemade blends! I really love the control I have over all of the ingredients. No artificial flavors and no unnecessary additives to be found on my spice rack.
This homemade lemon pepper seasoning is a great example of all natural flavors! Instead of using a fake lemon flavor, this recipe calls for real lemon zest to create the very best fresh flavor. The key here is to finely zest it and let it dry out to get that perfect texture before mixing it with the other bold spices that compliment the lemony goodness in the very best way.
Besides the lemon zest, you’ll need some kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder and of course some black pepper! Since you’re making this seasoning blend yourself, you can adjust all of the ingredients as needed. Want it less salty? Start with less salt and add more after a taste test. Craving more garlic? Just sprinkle in more garlic powder. Making your own seasonings is the best!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Seasoning
This lemon pepper seasoning comes together with hassle-free steps! For more information on exact measurements and the step by step process, just scroll down to the recipe card below.
- Prepare. Preheat your oven to 200°F (or whatever the lowest temperature is). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dry the lemon zest. Spread the lemon zest all over a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the zest is totally dried out. The goal is to have no moisture at all.
- Mix it. Place the dried lemon zest in a bowl or jar. Combine it until thoroughly mixed with black pepper, kosher salt, garlic powder and onion powder.
- Enjoy! You can either store it in an airtight container or use it right away.
Ingredient Notes
Let’s take a look at what makes this lemon pepper seasoning the very best:
- Lemon Zest – If possible, try to use a lemon zester to get the very best texture. If you don’t have one, grab a cheese grater and be sure to use the side with the smallest holes!
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper will yield the most potent flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Flaky sea salt will also work. Avoid iodized salt if possible. If you must use iodized salt, use 1 tbsp instead of 2 and add more if needed.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – Add more or less of either of these to taste! With that being said, I don’t recommend adjusting these measurements until after you’ve tasted the final product.
PRO TIP: Make sure everything is fresh! If your pepper, salt, garlic powder or onion powder are older, they will affect the flavor of the entire seasoning blend. I try to always use seasonings within 6 months.
Storing
Store your homemade lemon pepper in an airtight container at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, for up to 3 months. Also, make sure the lemon zest has totally cooled off before you store it in a closed container. If it’s still warm it could build condensation, which is a breeding ground for bacteria (and it will make everything soggy).
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Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Equipment
- 1 zester
- 1 storage jar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to the lowest setting available or 200˚F.
- Spread the lemon zest on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake for 20 minutes or until the zest has completely dried out.
- Transfer the lemon zest to a bowl and add the pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Whisk to combine.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature.