Savory Seasoning Salt

Recipe byMandyRhode Island home cook, writer and photographer

PublishedMay 24, 2024Comments0

In the world of salt, there are many varieties: table salt, kosher salt, rock salt, sea salt just to name a few. Each is unique in their own way with equally unique benefits. By far my favorite is sea salt. There are many kinds to choose from each with their own taste, texture and color. I have experimented with many different types and cannot pick a favorite. I love the traditional fleur del sel but then there is a pink Himalayan salt and a black Hawaiian salt or perhaps the grey Celtic salt….as a chef, having this many choices to pick from is a good problem to have!! For this recipe, you can use whatever sea salt floats your boat (hehehe that is a terrible pun!!). I tend to use a finer grain salt as its uses are more versatile, but a chunky sea salt can add an amazing punch to any dish as well. Try this recipe a few different times and see which salt you like the best. If you are like me, each time you make your Savory Seasoning Salt, you will use a different type of sea salt. That is the fun of homemade!

In a small mixing bowl or jar, add all the ingredients and mix to blend. (I actually put all the ingredients in an old jam jar, put the lid on and shake like crazy — mixes the spices very well!) Store the Savory Seasoning Salt at room temperature in glass spice jar or a ceramic salt box.

Ingredients:

4 tbsp good quality sea salt
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried marjoram
1 tsp dried savory
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder

Why Make Your Own Seasoning Salt

Homemade seasoning salt takes about two minutes and costs a fraction of the fancy blends at the market. Best of all, you know exactly what is in it. There are no anticaking agents or fillers, just good salt and herbs. And once you have a jar sitting next to the stove, you will find yourself reaching for it all the time.

Tips for Success

Check the dates on your dried herbs. Dried herbs lose their flavor over time, so if yours smell faint or dusty, it is time to buy new ones.
Crush the dried herbs between your fingers as you add them. It releases their oils and helps them blend with the salt.
If you are using a coarse or flaky salt, give the whole mix a few pulses in a clean spice grinder for a more even blend that sprinkles easily.
Always use a dry spoon to scoop it out. Any moisture in the jar will make the salt clump.
Label the jar with the date and the type of sea salt you used, so you remember your favorite combination.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Think of this recipe as a template. If you cannot find dried savory, use dried thyme instead, which has a similar earthy flavor. Add a little smoked paprika for color and a smoky note, a pinch of dried rosemary crushed fine, or some lemon zest that has been dried overnight on a plate for a bright citrus salt. For a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne is a fun addition.

How to Use It

I sprinkle this on just about everything. It is wonderful on roasted vegetables and potatoes, rubbed onto chicken or pork before grilling, stirred into scrambled eggs, and shaken over popcorn. I also love it on top of lasagna and casseroles before they go in the oven, and it makes a quick dip when mixed into sour cream or Greek yogurt. Since it is mostly salt, use it in place of plain salt in a recipe, not in addition to it.

Storage

Keep your seasoning salt in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark cupboard away from the heat of the stove. It will stay flavorful for about 6 months. After that it is still safe to use, but the herbs will have faded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use table salt?

You can, but table salt is much finer and saltier by volume, so start with about 3 tablespoons and taste.

Does it make a good gift?

Yes! A small jar with a handwritten label is a lovely little hostess or holiday gift.

Mandy