Let’s learn how to zest a lemon safely. When working with round objects such as potatoes, limes, oranges and lemons, you want to take your time. If you are in a hurry, you don’t take time to have proper equipment, you can hurt yourself. From grated knuckles to cutting yourself, zesting and juicing a lemon can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be.

I’ll walk you through the steps verbally and with a few photos and finally a video. The video is better as you can see the cutting of lemon as well as how to zest. For obvious safety reasons, I couldn’t take photos through the whole process. However, just follow these simple steps.

First, you want to make sure your lemon is washed and dried well. Run it under cool water for 30 – 45 seconds and rub the surface with your hands to wash away any loose dirt. Do not use soap. If you insist on some kind of cleaner, stick with vinegar as it is edible and the skin is porous and can absorb soap.

Second, use a non slip cutting board or sit it on a towel or silicone mat for traction. If the cutting board slides around, you could seriously injury yourself while cutting the lemon. Also, make sure to use a sharp knife. No dull knives here, please.

Third, you will need a box grater or a zester. Hold the lemon so the pointed ends facing toward the work surface and ceiling. This will help it not roll as you grate against metal. Take your time. Getting in a hurry can grate off skin. Trust me, it hurts.

Lastly, when cutting the lemon, take notice of your hand at all times. If the lemon starts to slip, release the pressure from the knife immediately and let go of the lemon. Stop, take a breath and readjust. It isn’t hard once you do it a few times and speed comes with practice.

Always remember this one key advice: A snails pace is safest when learning in the kitchen. Now let’s make a lemon cake!