Candied Lemon Zest

With a vegetable peeler, remove long strips of zest (without pith) from lemon; cut into julienne strips. Place in a small saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 7 minutes; drain.

Return the strips to the pan and add sugar and 1/2 cup water; return to a simmer. Cook over low heat until the zest is translucent and the syrup is slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer the zest to wax paper with a slotted spoon; let cool.