Oleo Saccharum

Remove any white pith from strips of lemon zest. Combine zest and sugar in a medium bowl, and gently crush zest with sugar using a wooden spoon or muddler until combined. Let mixture rest, covered, at room temperature, at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours. 

Strain liquid into an airtight container, pressing on lemon peels to extract as much liquid as possible.