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lemon curl on cocktail glass
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How to Make Lemon Curls (drink garnish)

This easy method for creating lemon spirals (also called lemon curls or lemon twists) perk up any cocktail or drink. They can be kept in the refrigerator on the ready for entertaining.
Course Cocktails, Cocktail Syrup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Soaking time (miniumum) 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 10 spirals per lemon approximately
Calories 3kcal
Author Toni Dash

Ingredients

  • Lemons

Supplies

  • sharp knife
  • toothpicks
  • bowl or jar

Instructions

  • Select unblemished lemons.
    unblemished lemons
  • Slice the ends off a lemon to create a flat surface.
    slicing ends of lemon for lemon curls
  • Make one slice down the length of the lemon. Gently separate the peel from the inner fruit of the lemon.
    removing the flesh from a 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.
    rolling lemon peel for lemon twists
  • Place in water in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight.
    soaking rolled lemon peel for lemon curls
  • 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.
    cutting rolled lemon peel into lemon curls

Notes

Yield: you'll get approximately 10 lemon curls per lemon as a guideline. 
TIP: larger lemons will make longer curls.
This method can be used with any citrus fruits. It's great for making lime twists or orange twists too.
How to store lemon curls
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 3kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 0mg | Potassium: 14mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 0g | Vitamin C: 5.7mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 0.1mg