Best Microplane Zester (2025 Update)

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If you're looking for the perfect way to add zest to your baking, drinks, and meals, the best microplane zester may be the tool you need. A microplane zester is a handheld kitchen gadget that helps you produce fine shreds of citrus zest or hard cheeses, perfect for adding tangy and savory flavors to your favorite dishes. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best microplane zester for your needs?

Before you buy a microplane zester, it's important to consider a few factors. Firstly, the size and style of the tool. Depending on what you're zesting, you may want a larger or smaller zester, and some have different shapes of blades to provide different cuts of zest. Additionally, you should consider the handle grip, as it can affect your ability to hold and use the tool comfortably. Finally, the material of the blade can be another factor, as some are more durable and effective than others.

So, how can you ensure that you pick the best microplane zester for your needs? Here are some questions to consider: What type of food or ingredient will you be zesting most often? Do you need a smaller or larger zester? What is your budget for this kitchen tool? Answering these questions will guide you towards the microplane zester that is right for you, and have you zest-ing up an array of flavorful dishes in no time.

10 Best Microplane Zester

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for grating and zesting various types of cheese and citrus fruits for cooking and baking.
2
Ideal for grating cauliflower into rice-like pieces quickly and easily with an extra coarse grater.
3
Ideal for grating and slicing various foods, including fruits, vegetables, cheese, and spices, using a sharp stainless steel blade.
4
Ideal for grating and zesting ingredients, such as citrus fruits, spices, and hard cheeses.
5
It is ideal for grating and zesting cheese or other foods with a coarse texture.
6
Ideal for finely grating citrus zest, hard cheeses, chocolate, ginger, garlic, and nutmeg to enhance flavor in cooking and baking.
7
Ideal for grating and zesting hard cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and chocolate with extra coarse texture.
8
Ideal for effortlessly zesting citrus, grating hard cheese, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, chocolate and more with precision and ease.
9
Ideal for grating cheese and zesting citrus fruits with precision and ease.
10
Ideal for grating small and fine pieces of food such as cheese, citrus zest, spices, and chocolate.
It is ideal for grating and zesting various types of cheese and citrus fruits for cooking and baking.
Ideal for grating cauliflower into rice-like pieces quickly and easily with an extra coarse grater.
Ideal for grating and slicing various foods, including fruits, vegetables, cheese, and spices, using a sharp stainless steel blade.
Ideal for grating and zesting ingredients, such as citrus fruits, spices, and hard cheeses.
It is ideal for grating and zesting cheese or other foods with a coarse texture.
Ideal for finely grating citrus zest, hard cheeses, chocolate, ginger, garlic, and nutmeg to enhance flavor in cooking and baking.
Ideal for grating and zesting hard cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and chocolate with extra coarse texture.
Ideal for effortlessly zesting citrus, grating hard cheese, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, chocolate and more with precision and ease.
Ideal for grating cheese and zesting citrus fruits with precision and ease.
Ideal for grating small and fine pieces of food such as cheese, citrus zest, spices, and chocolate.

1. Microplane Artisan Series Cheese Grater And Zester (Coarse, Red)

The Artisan series cheese grater from Microplane is an essential tool for any kitchen. It features surgical grade stainless steel blades that have been proudly made in the USA for the past 25 years. This cheese grater is perfect for garnishing hard and semi-hard cheese with a slightly thicker cut than a zester blade. The wider result from this kitchen tool sprinkles well and blends perfectly into salads and sits on top of omelets. It is best used with parmesan, asiago, and other hard cheeses, as well as semi-hard cheeses.

The Microplane vegetable grater is ideal for those who want a ton of flavor without a lot of texture. This grater provides perfect results for grating carrots and coconuts. Harder vegetables and soft fruits are grated thinly and evenly, and you can easily add these grated vegetables to baked goods like bread and cookies. This kitchen tool is also perfect for hiding the veggies from picky eaters.

Another great feature of the Artisan series cheese grater is that you can use it to grate chocolate. This kitchen tool is perfect for putting a delicious chocolate finish as a topping on baked goods, drinks, or anything else you desire. The best part about grating chocolate is how fluffy it looks, adding depth and flavor to any dessert.

The Microplane cheese grater and vegetable grater are made of stainless steel and BPA-free plastic used to frame the blade. This product is dishwasher safe, making cleaning easy and convenient. You can rest assured that this product is safe to use and easy to clean.

2. Microplane Mixing Bowl Grater – Extra Coarse Grater For Cauliflower Rice – Black & Grey

Introducing the ultimate kitchen tool that will make your cooking experience a lot easier and healthier – the Ricing Vegetable Mixing Bowl Grater. This innovative kitchen gadget is designed to fit inside any bowl, capturing all the fly-away pieces of vegetables as you are ricing. Say goodbye to the mess and hassle of ricing vegetables with a regular grater, and enjoy a cleaner and more efficient process.

With this mixing bowl grater, you can use any bowl you have at home, making it a versatile tool that adapts to your needs. It fits inside larger bowls, and can also fit over the top of smaller bowls, making it a hassle-free solution that saves you time and effort. Plus, it stores easily, so you don't need to worry about finding a special lid to fit a special bowl!

This kitchen gadget also doubles as a cheese grater, thanks to its extra coarse blade type that is perfect for grating soft cheese like Cheddar or Mozzarella. The blade is made in the USA by Microplane, a company known for its ultra-sharp blades that ensure a precise and efficient grating process.

The Ricing Vegetable Mixing Bowl Grater is made of high-quality stainless steel that is rust-resistant and durable. It is also dishwasher safe and uses BPA and phthalate-free materials, ensuring that your food is safe and healthy to eat.

3. Stainless Steel Kitchen Grater Set By Microplane.

This set includes a high-quality zester grater and a food slicer, thoughtfully packaged in an elegant gift box. The ergonomic design of the soft touch handle ensures that the user enjoys maximum comfort while using the tools. Cleaning the tools is a breeze, and they are also dishwasher safe for added convenience.

When using these tools, foods are precisely cut without any tearing or ripping, ensuring that they retain their natural texture and taste. The grater is effortless to use, and it produces superior results, with the natural aroma of the ingredients being released to enhance the flavor of the dish.

The zester grater is designed to be versatile and can be used to zest citrus fruits, grate ginger, garlic, nutmeg, and cheese, among other uses. The food slicer, on the other hand, produces uniform slices that are perfect for creating salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

4. Microplane Ecograte Series Grater (Zester, Peacock Blue)

Looking for a grater that is both eco-friendly and efficient? Look no further than the Microplane EcoGrate Series! Made with ultra-sharp blades, this grater is perfect for any kitchen. The blades are made of US stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. What's more, by purchasing this product, you'll be supporting American jobs and manufacturing.

In addition to its quality construction, the Microplane EcoGrate Series was designed with the environment in mind. The entire grater is BPA, melamine, PVC, and phthalate free, making it a safe and eco-friendly choice for your kitchen. Whether you're shredding cheese or grating vegetables, this grater is sure to get the job done with ease.

Cleaning up after your meal is a breeze with the Microplane EcoGrate Series. The grater is dishwasher safe, thanks to its stainless steel construction. And because stainless steel is naturally BPA free, you can be sure that your food will be safe and healthy to eat.

5. Microplane Artisan Series Cheese Grater And Zester (Coarse, Yellow)

Introducing the Artisan Series Cheese Grater from Microplane, a top-quality kitchen tool that will revolutionize your cooking experience. This cheese grater is specifically designed to provide a slightly thicker cut of cheese than a zester blade, making it perfect for garnishing with hard and semi-hard cheese. The wider result from this kitchen tool sprinkles well and blends into salads and sits on top of omelets, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.

The Artisan Series Cheese Grater is best used with parmesan, asiago, and other hard cheeses, as well as semi-hard cheeses. The surgical-grade stainless steel blades have been made in the USA for 25 years, ensuring a high level of quality and durability. Microplane is proud to support US jobs and the US economy by producing this product domestically.

In addition to the cheese grater, this product also includes a vegetable grater. If you want a ton of flavor but not a lot of texture, this grater will provide the perfect results for carrots and coconuts. Harder vegetables and soft fruits are grated thin and even. Add these grated vegetables to baked goods like breads and cookies or use them to hide the veggies from picky eaters.

But that's not all – this kitchen tool can also grate chocolate! Use a coarse grater to put a delicious chocolate finish as a topping on baked goods, drinks, or anything else you desire. The best part about grating chocolate is how fluffy it looks, adding depth and flavor to any dessert.

The Artisan Series Cheese Grater from Microplane is easy to clean and maintain. The stainless steel is naturally BPA-free, as is the plastic used to frame the blade. This product may be placed in the dishwasher for cleaning, making it a convenient and hassle-free addition to your kitchen.

6. Microplane Premium Classic Zester Grater 2 Pack (Blue Grotto And Rouge Red)

Introducing the versatile and high-quality Zester/Grater from Microplane, a trusted brand that uses photo-etched technology to create ultra-sharp grating blades right here in the USA! The blade is specifically designed with a unique tooth set that easily removes the flavorful rind from citrus fruits while leaving behind the bitter white pith, allowing you to enhance the taste of your favorite dishes with a little zest! This tool is perfect for adding flavor to vinaigrettes, stir-fries, salads, and baked goods.

With this Zester/Grater, you can also grate cheese into fluffy mounds that melt quickly, adding a beautiful rustic touch to your pasta dishes. Sprinkle fresh parmesan over eggs, salads, or any dish for a burst of flavor. The tool also grates other hard cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino, and Padano. You can also use it to grate ginger and garlic into a minced paste to flavor many popular foods, or create ground spices from whole hard cinnamon or nutmeg.

This versatile tool can even be used to shave a cork down to fit back into a bottle or to scrape off burnt or dark spots from cookies, scones, and toast, making it a must-have in any kitchen. Made of surgical-grade stainless steel, this Zester/Grater stays rust-free and maintains sharpness over time. Its true stainless steel material is magnetic, allowing you to hang it on your magnetic knife strip, while its non-scratch end tabs help protect your countertops.

Cleaning this tool is a breeze, as it is dishwasher safe. Simply rinse it immediately after use, and use a kitchen brush on the underside of the blade to clean out any tough-to-reach particles. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, the Microplane Zester/Grater is an essential tool for elevating your dishes and making your life in the kitchen a lot easier!

7. Microplane Artisan Series Cheese Grater And Zester (Extra Coarse, Green)

The Artisan extra coarse Cheese Graters are a versatile and high-quality kitchen tool designed to make food prep quick and easy. With its razor-sharp surgical grade stainless steel blades, this cheese grater is perfect for grating both soft and hard cheeses, shredding vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, apples, and onions, and even softening butter.

This cheese grater is proudly MADE in the USA, with a 25-year history of producing top-notch quality kitchen tools. The surgical-grade stainless steel blades are strong and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability. By choosing the Artisan series cheese grater, you are not only getting a top-of-the-line product, but you are also supporting US jobs and the US economy.

The Artisan series cheese grater is also incredibly easy to clean, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen. The stainless steel blades and plastic frame are naturally BPA-free, ensuring that your food stays safe and healthy. Plus, this product is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, the Artisan extra coarse Cheese Graters are an excellent addition to your kitchen arsenal. With its superior quality, durability, and versatility, this cheese grater is sure to become a go-to tool for all your food prep needs.

8. Microplane Premium Classic Zester, Ca. 325 X 35 X 30 Mm, Sage Green

The Microplane Classic Grater is a top-of-the-line kitchen tool that boasts a photo-etched, long-lasting, ultra-sharp, stainless-steel blade, proudly made in the USA. With a protective cover included, this grater is perfect for grating lemon, orange, hard cheese, ginger, chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon, truffles, and much more.

This classic grater has been widely appreciated by both professional and hobby chefs for its precise and effortless grating capabilities. With an ergonomic soft-touch handle, users can easily maximize comfort during use. Furthermore, the grater has anti-scratch plastic feet that provide extra stability and prevent any unwanted movement while grating.

The Microplane Classic Grater is incredibly easy to clean, and is also dishwasher safe, making it a convenient tool to own. Its durable construction ensures it will last for years to come, providing an excellent value for any kitchen.

9. Microplane Elite Series Lemon Zester And Parmesan Cheese Grater (Black)

The Microplane Elite Series Grater is a must-have kitchen tool for anyone who loves to add fresh flavors to their dishes. This grater is perfect for grating lemon, lime, citrus, ginger, garlic, whole cinnamon, whole nutmeg, hard cheese like Asiago or Parmesan, and much more. It adds flavor to your dishes without any added texture, making it an ideal tool for those who love smooth and creamy textures.

The ultra-sharp blades of the Microplane Elite Series Grater are made in the USA with US Stainless Steel at their facility in Russellville, Arkansas. By purchasing this product, you are supporting American jobs and manufacturing. The blades are incredibly sharp and will make quick work of any grating task, making it a breeze to add fresh flavors to your dishes.

The base of the frame has a non-slip foot that keeps the grater from slipping while you cook, preventing any scratching on your countertops. Additionally, the Microplane blades are ultra sharp, so it's essential to keep your fingers safe by placing the cover over the top of the blade before storing. This feature ensures that you can use the grater without any worries and the cover protects the blades when not in use.

The Microplane Elite Series Grater also features a catch tray, which minimizes clean up time and adds ease to cooking. The catch tray has an easy measurement, so you can measure out the grated ingredients accurately. Best of all, it easily slides on and becomes a protective cover, making it easy to store while keeping the blades safe.

The Microplane Elite Series Grater is made of stainless steel, which is naturally BPA free. You can place the grater in the dishwasher for cleaning, making it easy to maintain its cleanliness and hygiene.

10. Microplane 43320e Grater Master Zester, One Size, Silver

Introducing the must-have kitchen tool for effortless grating and superior results – the grater with a non-slip rubber foot and elegant walnut handle. This grater is designed to provide you with a comfortable and stable grip while grating your favorite foods.

Thanks to its non-slip rubber foot, you can trust that this grater will stay in place when in use, preventing any accidents while you work. It is also incredibly easy to use, with an ergonomic design that allows you to grate with ease.

The elegant walnut handle is not only a beautiful addition to your kitchen, but it is also functional. The handle provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to hold and control the grater. It is also durable and long-lasting, ensuring that you can rely on this grater for years to come.

This grater is perfect for grating a wide range of foods, from cheese to vegetables and even chocolate. It is also easy to clean, making it a great addition to any busy kitchen.

Best Microplane Zester FAQs

Are there any affordable options for microplane zesters that still offer good quality?

Yes, there are affordable options for microplane zesters that offer good quality. One option is the OXO Good Grips zester/grater, which is priced at around $10-$15. It has a comfortable grip and sharp stainless steel blades that can easily zest citrus fruits, grate hard cheese, and even shave chocolate. Another option is the Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology Zester, which is priced at around $15-$20. It also has sharp stainless steel blades and a comfortable grip, but also features a non-slip end for added safety. Both of these options are affordable, durable, and highly rated by consumers. If you are looking for a budget-friendly microplane zester, these two options should be on your list to consider.

Are there any safety concerns to be aware of when using a microplane zester?

Yes, there are some safety concerns to keep in mind when using a microplane zester.

Firstly, the blades on a microplane zester are extremely sharp, so it's important to handle it with care and keep your fingers away from the blades while using it. It's also a good idea to use a cutting board or other surface to protect your hands and countertops from accidental slips.

Additionally, the small size of the zester can make it challenging to use, especially when zesting smaller items like limes or lemons. This can increase the risk of accidentally scraping your knuckles or fingers against the blades.

To avoid any accidents, it's important to use the proper technique when using a microplane zester. Hold the zester at a slight angle and gently glide it over the surface of the ingredient, applying only light pressure. It's also a good idea to use a protective glove or guard to protect your fingers while zesting.

Overall, with proper technique and caution, a microplane zester can be a safe and effective tool for adding flavor and texture to your dishes.

Can a microplane zester be used for grating other ingredients besides citrus, such as ginger or hard cheeses?

Yes, a microplane zester can be used for grating other ingredients besides citrus. In fact, it is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for grating garlic, ginger, hard cheeses like Parmesan, nutmeg, and even chocolate. The sharp and fine teeth of the microplane make it ideal for grating these ingredients into a fine texture, which is perfect for adding flavor and texture to your cooking. However, it is important to note that certain ingredients may be harder to grate than others and may require more effort and time. Also, it is recommended to clean the microplane after each use, especially when switching between different ingredients to prevent cross-contamination. Overall, a microplane zester is a handy kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of grating purposes beyond just citrus.

Can a microplane zester be used for other kitchen tasks besides zesting citrus?

Yes, a microplane zester can be used for several other kitchen tasks besides zesting citrus. It is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used to grate various ingredients such as hard cheeses like Parmesan, ginger, garlic, nutmeg, cinnamon, chocolate, and even vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes.

You can also use a microplane zester to finely shred coconut, crush nuts, and create breadcrumbs. Its sharp and small blades make it an ideal tool for tasks that require precision and delicate handling.

Moreover, a microplane zester is also a useful gadget for creating garnishes for your dishes. You can use it to create beautiful citrus curls, zest strips, and grated cheese shreds to add texture and visual appeal to your meals.

Overall, a microplane zester is a versatile and handy kitchen tool that can make your cooking and food preparation tasks much easier and efficient.

How do you clean and maintain a microplane zester?

Cleaning and maintaining a microplane zester is a simple process that can be done quickly and easily. The first step is to rinse the zester under running water, using a soft brush or sponge to remove any food particles that may be stuck to the blades. Be sure to use caution when handling the sharp blades, as they can easily cut your skin.

Next, fill a small bowl with warm soapy water and soak the zester for a few minutes. Use the soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the blades, being careful not to damage them. Rinse the zester thoroughly under running water and dry it with a clean towel.

To maintain the sharpness of the blades, it is recommended to store the zester in its protective cover or a sheath. Avoid placing the zester in a drawer with other sharp objects, as this can dull the blades over time. If the blades become dull, they can be sharpened using a sharpening stone or by sending the zester to a professional sharpener.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your microplane zester remains in good condition and continues to produce finely grated zest for all of your culinary creations.

What are some popular brands of microplane zesters on the market?

Microplane is a well-known brand that specializes in making high-quality zesters and graters. They are known for their sharp blades that make it easy to zest citrus fruits, grate hard cheeses, and even shave chocolate. Some of the popular Microplane zester models include the Microplane Classic Zester, the Microplane Elite Zester, and the Microplane Premium Zester. Other brands that produce quality zesters include OXO, Cuisipro, and KitchenAid. OXO Good Grips Zester is a popular choice due to its comfortable grip and non-slip feet. Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology Zester is another popular option because of its razor-sharp etched blade that is perfect for zesting. KitchenAid Gourmet Zester is also a good choice due to its durable stainless steel blade and comfortable grip handle. Ultimately, the choice of brand depends on personal preference and budget.

What are the key features to look for in a high-quality microplane zester?

When looking for a high-quality microplane zester, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, it should have sharp, durable blades that can easily and efficiently zest citrus fruits, grate hard cheeses, and finely grate spices. The blades should be made of high-quality stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion and will maintain their sharpness over time.

Secondly, a good microplane zester should have a comfortable, ergonomic handle that provides a secure grip and allows for easy control when using it. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver, so that you can use it for extended periods without experiencing any hand fatigue or discomfort.

Lastly, it's important to look for a microplane zester that is easy to clean and maintain. Ideally, it should be dishwasher safe or easy to hand wash, with no hard-to-reach crevices or corners where food can get stuck.

Overall, a high-quality microplane zester should be sharp, durable, comfortable to use, and easy to clean, making it an essential tool for any kitchen.

What is a microplane zester?

A microplane zester is a kitchen tool that is used to grate the outer layer of citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges. It is a small handheld tool that is designed with sharp blades that are made from stainless steel. The blades are arranged in a fine pattern and are used to create thin, delicate strips of the fruit's outer layer, also known as the zest. The zest contains aromatic oils that add flavor and aroma to dishes, making it a popular ingredient in many recipes, including desserts, marinades, and dressings. The microplane zester is easy to use and is designed to provide precise and consistent results, making it a must-have tool for any home cook or professional chef. It can also be used for grating other ingredients such as cheese, chocolate, and nuts.

What types of citrus are best suited for zesting with a microplane zester?

When it comes to zesting citrus with a microplane zester, there are a few types of citrus that work best. The most commonly used citrus fruits for zesting are lemons, limes, and oranges. These fruits have a thin, smooth skin that is easy to remove with a microplane zester, and they also have a strong, distinct flavor that is perfect for adding to recipes.

When choosing citrus fruits for zesting, it's important to look for fruits that are firm and free of blemishes or soft spots. You'll also want to choose fruits that are organic and free of any wax or coatings, as these can affect the flavor of the zest.

While other citrus fruits like grapefruits and tangerines can also be zested with a microplane zester, they tend to have a thicker, tougher skin that can be more difficult to remove. However, if you're up for a challenge, these fruits can also add a unique and flavorful twist to your recipes.

Why is a microplane zester considered the best type of zester?

A microplane zester is considered the best type of zester for several reasons. Firstly, it has an incredibly sharp blade that makes it easy to zest citrus fruits with minimal effort. The blades are made from high-quality stainless steel, which means they are durable and long-lasting.

Secondly, a microplane zester is very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks in the kitchen. It can be used to grate hard cheeses, spices, and even chocolate. This makes it a must-have tool for any home cook or professional chef.

Thirdly, a microplane zester produces zest that is much finer and more delicate than other types of zesters. This ensures that the zest has a more intense flavor and aroma, which can enhance the taste of any dish.

Lastly, a microplane zester is very easy to use and clean. It is lightweight and fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to zest fruits and vegetables. It is also dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning up a breeze.

Overall, a microplane zester is considered the best type of zester due to its sharpness, versatility, delicate zest, and ease of use.

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