Start with ripe, fresh citrus fruit, and use a sharp paring knife or vegetable peeler to remove thin, pith-free strips of peel. Choose fruit with a smooth, vibrantly hued skin for the best taste ...

He also says wider twists are easier than their thin counterpart ... put on the peeler as you drag it through the fruit will change the thickness and can allow you to mold the citrus a bit ...

Pare the zest from the limes (or other citrus fruit) in thick strips using a vegetable peeler, then cut the strips into thin sticks. Put the zest in a small saucepan and cover with cold water.