MICROPLANE Classic Zester Grater - Black

Originally a woodworking tool, this best seller grates even the hardest Parmesan Reggiano as well as other hard cheeses into fine lacy wisps. Ideal for topping your favorite spaghetti and meatballs or a Caesar salad. It’s also wonderful for effortless citrus zesting to add natural flavors to a lemon crème brulee or a basic vinaigrette.  This tool has a hard plastic handle making it preferred by many users over the classic original all stainless blade. 

Product Details

• Dimensions: 30 cm
• Grating Surface: 20 x 2,50 cm
• Heavy-duty, ergonomic handle 
• Protective cover included for storing
• Materials: Surgical grade stainless steel blade. Plastic handle.
• Blade made in USA, Assembled in MX
• Shipping Weight: 6 oz

Product Information

Why isn't there a handle for this tool?

The 40001 Zester is one of the original Microplane tools designed as a wood rasp to fit in a hacksaw frame so a handle was never made specifically for this tool. 

How do I use a Zester?

If you are right-handed, hold the lemon (citrus) in your left hand with a side up as if it were the neck of a violin. Take the Microplane® Zester in your right hand and make sure the sharp edges of the cutter are aimed away from you toward the lemon. Make sure to lightly grip the smooth edges of the tool (thumb on one side, four fingers on the other). Now, stroke the Zester across the lemon as if you were playing the violin. The zest collects in the upper channel. Voila! Incredible fine shavings of zest--no more grated knuckles! For use with cheese, we suggest stretching it across the top of a bowl. 

What is Zest?

Zest, is the grated rind of a citrus fruit, and the Microplane zesters do this with little effort, and the teeth are set so that you don't end up with the layer of white skin, called the pith which is bitter.

Why use Zest?

Zest add an extra level of flavor to dishes, without adding liquid, it is a popular way to add flavor, without adding calories as well.  You can decorate with zest as well, adding color and flavor.  

I want a thick zest - does this tool do that?

This tool is for fine zesting ideal for baking and cooking.   A thicker zest is can be created with a larger blade type like a coarse blade, or you can use a garnishing tool called a cannelle knife, often people call this zest, but at Microplane we call this a garnish or a twist. 

Tips for cleaning and storing. 

• Top rack dishwasher safe.
• We recommend rinsing your grater in warm water immediately after each use. Remove trapped particles from the non-sharp side whenever possible. To remove trapped particles on the front, first, soak the tool in warm water and then use a cleaning brush to stroke in the same direction as the teeth.
• Store with blade covered when not in use.