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When crafting the perfect lemon sorbet, paying attention to the zesting process is crucial. The zest of the lemon contains essential oils that impart a vibrant flavor to your sorbet. However, it’s important to avoid the bitter pith, which lies just beneath the zest. This white layer can negatively affect the overall taste, making your sorbet unpleasantly bitter. To achieve that zesty, refreshing flavor without the bitterness, use a microplane or a fine grater to carefully remove only the bright yellow outer layer of the lemon. This will ensure you capture all of the citrusy goodness while leaving the bitter pith behind.

Chilled Sorbet with Lemon

Beat the summer heat with a scoop of Zesty Lemon Chill Sorbet, the perfect refreshing treat! This vibrant sorbet combines freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for a burst of tangy flavor, balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. Easy to make at home, this dairy-free dessert is perfect for parties or a sunny afternoon. Enjoy its icy texture and health benefits, like vitamin C, while savoring every delicious spoonful of summer!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 8-10 lemons)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 cups water

Zest of 2 lemons

1/4 cup mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once dissolved, remove from heat and allow to cool.

    Juice and Zest: While the syrup is cooling, zest the lemons with a microplane or zester, making sure to only grate the yellow outer skin and not the bitter white pith. Then, juice the lemons until you have 2 cups of lemon juice.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.

        Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or until it's thoroughly chilled.

          Churn the Sorbet: Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

            Freeze the Sorbet: Transfer the churned sorbet into an airtight container and press down to eliminate air pockets. Freeze for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm.

              Serve: To serve, let the sorbet sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or cones and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours | Servings: 6-8