If you’ve ever reached for that jar of seasoned salt at the store and thought, “I bet I could make this better,” then you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe. It’s a vibrant, aromatic blend that elevates everything from fries and roasted veggies to grilled meats and scrambled eggs, adding that perfect burst of flavor without the mystery ingredients. Making your own seasoned salt means you control the heat, the herbs, and the balance of flavors, turning ordinary dishes into unforgettable bites with just a sprinkle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe right is all about choosing the right ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in the overall flavor, bringing a mix of savory, spicy, and aromatic notes that combine beautifully.
- Fine sea salt: The essential base that carries all flavors and enhances every dish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a mellow, savory depth without the sharpness of fresh garlic.
- Onion powder: Provides a sweet, earthy undertone that rounds out the seasoning.
- Paprika (regular or smoked): Brings color and a subtle warmth, with smoked paprika lending a smoky dimension.
- Ground black pepper: Offers a mild heat and sharp bite for balance.
- Cayenne pepper: Packs heat; adjust to taste if you prefer a kick or a mild punch.
- Dried thyme: Introduces a herbaceous, slightly minty aroma that complements savory dishes.
- Dried basil: Gives a sweet, peppery freshness, lifting the overall blend.
- Dried oregano: Adds a warm, slightly bitter herbal note that ties everything together.
How to Make Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe
Step 1: Gather Quality Ingredients
First things first, collect all your spices and salt. Using fresh, high-quality powders and dried herbs makes a world of difference in the final flavor. Nothing ruins seasoned salt faster than stale spices.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and combine the fine sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. These are the foundational flavors that give seasoned salt its vibrant and savory character, so whisk them well to blend evenly.
Step 3: Add the Spices for Heat and Depth
Next, stir in the ground black pepper and cayenne pepper. This is where you can personalize the heat level; more cayenne means more kick, while less keeps it gentle. Mix until you see a uniform blend of color and texture.
Step 4: Blend in the Herbs
Finally, fold in the dried thyme, basil, and oregano. These herbs add complexity with their fragrant notes, making the seasoned salt more than just salty spice—it becomes an herbaceous symphony.
Step 5: Store It Right
Transfer your perfectly blended Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe into an airtight container or a clean spice jar. Keeping it sealed and stored in a cool, dry place protects the integrity of your spices and ensures the blend stays fresh and flavorful.
Step 6: Ready to Use
Before each use, give the jar a gentle shake to redistribute the spices, and your homemade seasoning will be ready to sprinkle, shake, or rub onto your favorite foods.
How to Serve Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe
Garnishes
This seasoned salt shines when sprinkled over fresh-cut fries, roasted potatoes, or even popcorn. Just a pinch adds irresistible flavor and a pop of color that makes any meal feel special.
Side Dishes
Use the Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe on vegetables before roasting or grilling to create mouthwatering sides bursting with zest and aroma. It’s also fantastic dusted over deviled eggs or creamy dips for that extra layer of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Why stick to the usual? Mix your homemade seasoned salt into olive oil to make a dipping sauce or create flavorful dry rubs for chicken, pork, or beef. Pack it in small jars for gifts, paired with a favorite recipe card to share this tasty secret with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe keeps incredibly well. Store it in an airtight container away from heat and moisture, and it should maintain its punchy flavor for several months. Just make sure to keep it dry to prevent clumping.
Freezing
Freezing seasoned salt isn’t necessary and can cause moisture issues. The best practice is to store it at room temperature in a tightly sealed jar to preserve those bold, fresh flavors.
Reheating
Since this is a dry spice mix, there’s no reheating involved. Simply shake or stir before use to make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed and enjoy whenever your dishes need that perfect seasoning boost.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spiciness in this Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe?
Absolutely! The cayenne pepper level is flexible, so if you prefer mild seasoning, reduce it. For more heat, increase it gradually until you hit your preferred spice level.
Is it better to use smoked or regular paprika?
Both work wonderfully, but smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky depth that pairs well with grilled or roasted foods. Regular paprika keeps it a bit sweeter and milder, perfect for more versatile uses.
How long does this Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe last?
If stored properly in a sealed container away from moisture, it can last up to six months while maintaining great flavor. After that, the spices might begin to lose their potency.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
For this mix, dried herbs are ideal because they blend well and keep the seasoning dry and shelf-stable. Fresh herbs contain moisture, which can cause clumping and spoilage.
What’s the best way to use this seasoned salt on meats?
Rub it generously onto your chosen meat before cooking, allowing the spices to infuse flavors during grilling, roasting, or pan-searing. It works great as a dry rub or sprinkled on during the cooking process.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe is such a rewarding kitchen adventure that brings out the best flavors in all your dishes. It’s simple, customizable, and absolutely elevates everyday meals into something truly special. I encourage you to try it, tweak it to your liking, and watch how this blend becomes your new secret weapon in the kitchen!
Print
Homemade Seasoned Salt Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 10m
- Yield: About 3/4 cup seasoned salt
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A versatile homemade seasoned salt blend combining sea salt with a flavorful mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for enhancing the taste of meats, vegetables, and snacks with a balanced savory and spicy kick.
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
- 1/4 cup fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It’s essential to use quality spices for the best flavor and a well-balanced seasoning blend.
- Combine Base Spices: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the fine sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika evenly to form the base of the seasoning.
- Add Peppers: Add the ground black pepper and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity depending on your preferred heat level, stirring well to integrate all the spices.
- Incorporate Herbs: Stir in the dried thyme, basil, and oregano. Use a whisk or spoon to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly blended to create a uniform seasoned salt.
- Store the Seasoning: Transfer the seasoned salt to an airtight container or spice jar with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness and potency over time.
- Usage and Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Shake or stir the jar before each use to redistribute the spices evenly for consistent flavor.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level of your seasoning blend.
- Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor variation.
- Store seasoned salt in a dry environment to prevent clumping.
- Great for seasoning meats, vegetables, fries, and popcorn.
- Label your jar with the date and contents for easy identification.
