Ever wonder how bartenders make those cool Lemon Spirals for cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks? Well I asked and have the scoop! Super easy to make at home!
A fun garnish is a great way to dress up a cocktail or non-alcoholic drink. Lemon curls are a classic.
A bartender gave me his method to make this lemon garnish and I think you’ll love it too.
It can be used to make lemon curls, lime curls or orange curls too.
How to make Lemon Curls
Years ago I was having lunch at the now defunct Kevin Taylor Prima Ristorante in Denver. I chatted with the bartender over a pomegranate martini and asked how he made the whimsical lemon spiral hanging off the side of the glass.
He let me in on a secret I've loved knowing ever since: how to make Lemon Spirals.
Having been served cocktails with the whimsical swirls before (the ones that look like tiny citrus corkscrew pig’s tails), I was always curious how they were made.
When I asked the bartender he showed me step by step how to do it.
It's quite easy and was something I would never have figured out on my own.
No fancy equipment or channel knife is needed.
Using Lemon Twists
Lemon Spirals (also called lemon curls or lemon twists) can be used in any sort of drink, alcoholic or otherwise.
I try to choose larger lemons to yield a longer spiral though any size lemon will work.
The spirals may be added to the drink, trellised over the edge of the glass or both. They are great for decorating baked goods too.
However you use them they make the drink more eye-catching and fun!
How to make Lime Twists or Orange Twists
This easy method can be used for any type of citrus fruits. Limes and oranges make great curls too.
Storing Lemon Curls
Store lemon twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
More recipes to try!
Recipe
How to Make Lemon Curls (drink garnish)
Ingredients
- Lemons
Supplies
- sharp knife
- toothpicks
- bowl or jar
Instructions
- Select unblemished lemons.
- Slice the ends off a lemon to create a flat surface.
- Make one slice down the length of the lemon. Gently separate the peel from the inner fruit of the lemon.
- Gently roll the peel lengthwise to form a tight spiral (leave no space between the layers). Insert 2 toothpicks on either end to secure the lemon peel.
- Place in water in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Remove from the water and remove the toothpicks. Slice into 1/8-1/4 inch slices. Uncoil and place into a drink or hand off the side of a glass.
Notes
Nutrition
Originally published December 2010.
kellie@foodtoglow says
It is something I’ve wanted to learn too as it looks so impressive and pro. Thanks so much for this. My gosh it is easy, isn’t it?
Toni Dash says
Yes it truly is!! That is why I was so excited to share it when I first started my blog. I couldn’t imagine the impressive end result was this easy to create!
Jennifer Richmond says
That’s so cool! Thanks for sharing these tips.
Liz says
I probably read this back then!!! But certainly didn’t retain the info!!! Thanks for sharing again—great tip!
Brandy says
I had no idea it was that easy to make spirals! Thank you for sharing this post!
Katie @ Garnish Blog says
This is great, I’ve never seen this trick before! I’m definitely going to try it.
One note – it’s best to get as little of the white pith as possible, as it can add some bitterness to your drink. You could try using a vegetable peeler to remove a thin section from the center of the lemon without all that white stuff.
Toni Dash says
Good point Katie. I will say I’ve never had my drink change flavor from making Lemon Spirals via this method however. Maybe it depends on the lemon.
Katie @ GarnishBlog says
It’s totally a nitpicky cocktail snob thing! If you think your drink looks and tastes great, then you’re doing just fine! 🙂
Toni Dash says
I do hear your point though. Pith is very bitter. I trust the bartender who educated me in this method! He held down a very hot spot venue and everyone loved the lemon spirals.
Anna @ Garnish with Lemon says
I NEEDED this post. Tucking this away for my next party. Brilliant!
Cheri says
Wow! I can’t believe how easy that really is. Thanks for the instruction.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
Oooh how fancy 🙂 I am always impressed when I get a drink with a lemon spiral in it!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
Oh cool! I’ve always wondered how they got the lemon to do that. That is so super neat, and I will definitely be doing this the next time I serve drinks!
Lindsey Paris says
That’s so much easier than i thought!!! I thought there was spiral slicing involved, not just soaking. Cool! Now i’ll be looking fancy at my next cocktail hour.