Citrus is a staple in many kitchens, especially during the holidays when oranges and other fruits are at their best. Every glass of fresh juice or bowl of winter fruit leaves behind peels that usually end up in the trash. Those peels still hold bright oils, natural fragrance, and plenty of flavor that can be put to work in the kitchen and around the house in ways you might not have thought of before.
Make candied orange peels
Transform peels into a sweet snack by simmering them in a simple syrup until tender, then rolling them in sugar or dipping them in chocolate. The result is a chewy, citrusy treat that stores well and adds a decorative touch to cakes, tarts, cookies, or cocktails. Candied peels are a fun project for a weekend afternoon and a delicious way to use fruit that might otherwise be discarded.
Cook a bright orange marmalade
Orange peels bring natural pectin and concentrated citrus flavor to homemade marmalade. Slow-cook thin strips with sugar and water until thick and glossy, then spread on toast, spoon over yogurt, or warm and drizzle on roasted meats. Making your own lets you control the sweetness and enjoy the full flavor of the fruit.
Create a natural household cleaner
Fill a jar with orange peels and cover them with white vinegar. After a couple of weeks, strain the liquid to get a citrus-infused cleaner that cuts through grease and freshens surfaces. The natural oils in the peel give it a clean scent and extra cleaning power, making it an easy alternative to store-bought sprays.
Craft a simple aromatherapy oil
Peel the oranges carefully, remove as much of the white pith as possible, and cover the pieces with a neutral spirit like vodka. After several days of gentle shaking, strain and allow the liquid to sit uncovered until the alcohol evaporates. The remaining orange-infused oil can be used in homemade candles, massage oils, or to scent bathwater.
Use as a natural pest deterrent
The essential oils in orange peels help repel some common insects. Place fresh or dried pieces near doorways, windows, or garden beds to discourage ants and other pests. Refresh the peels as their scent fades to maintain their effectiveness.
Mix dried peel into skincare treatments
Orange peel is rich in vitamin C and natural antioxidants. Dry the peel thoroughly and grind it into a fine powder to mix into face masks or scrubs. When combined with yogurt or honey, it creates a gentle exfoliant that brightens skin and adds a fresh scent.
Blend a citrus salt
Dry the peels completely, then grind them with coarse sea salt to make a fragrant seasoning. Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, fish, or the rim of a cocktail glass for a hint of citrus. A small jar of homemade citrus salt also makes a thoughtful food gift for anyone who enjoys cooking.
Add zest to tea blends
Dry thin strips of orange peel and store them in a sealed jar. Add a few pieces to black, green, or herbal tea as it steeps for a subtle citrus aroma and extra flavor. The peel’s natural oils release gently in hot water, turning a simple cup of tea into something more special.
Prepare and freeze orange zest
Grate the peel before eating the fruit and freeze the zest in small portions or ice cube trays topped with water. The frozen cubes keep their bright flavor for months and can go straight into baked goods, sauces, or drinks. Having zest ready on hand saves time and cuts down on waste.
Infuse oil for cooking
Place clean, dry peels in a bottle of good olive oil and let them steep for a few weeks. The oil will absorb the orange’s essential oils, giving it a gentle citrus note. Use it to dress salads, marinate meats, or drizzle over roasted vegetables. The homemade infusion adds a fresh accent to many everyday dishes.
Freshen the air with a simmer pot
Combine orange peels with spices like cinnamon sticks or cloves in a small pot of water and let it gently simmer on the stove. The rising steam fills the kitchen with a cozy, citrusy scent that feels inviting on cold days. It is an easy, natural way to fragrance your home without synthetic candles or sprays.
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
