Limoncello

Today I peeled ten lemons to make limoncello. Now they will steep in vodka for several weeks. I looked at the peeled lemons with sympathy; they looked so naked! Feeling a bit “Shaker-like”, I juiced all of them to use as much of the lemon as possible. I wasn’t sure yet what I would do with all of the fresh juice. Lemon curd! Actually, citrus curd. I wanted to use zest in the curd, but it was already reserved for limoncello. So I pulled out a few oranges and lime to zest into the curd. Before it completely cooled, I couldn’t wait, so I put a dollop on some yogurt. The citrus curd, made with simple ingredients, added such a bright, “zesty” flavor.

Lemons are a favorite of mine as I try to weave natural ingredients into my life. I love lemons in beverages and baked goods. Besides their ability to purify and clean, I learned that lemons contain many health benefits and their scent can reduce mental stress. Taking the time to prepare food, recognizing where it comes from, and enjoying its beauty, color and scent help me feel closer to God’s creation.

Designer Christian Dior states, “Zest is the secret of all beauty. There is no beauty that is attractive without zest.” I think I’ll replace zest with God and say, “God is the secret of all beauty. There is no beauty that is attractive without God.”