Last Minute Citrus Zest for Maximum Flavor
Citrus zest can add flavor to many dishes, such as risotto or salad. However, pre-cooking the zest as part of the mise-en-scène can greatly affect the taste.
When you use citrus zest, you actually need oils on your skin. Oils are what give a dish the flavor and aroma of orange, lemon, or lime. If you drive too far, the skin will shed and the oil will fly into the air. So, even if you need to grate a ton of citrus fruits, do it just before using the zest to keep the flavor fresh.
Citrus Cooking Tips | Bon appetit