Make Your Own Flavor-Packed Citrus Salt in 3 Easy Steps

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your dishes? Whether you're making a zesty sauce, an herb packed marinade, or a homemade spice blend, the possibilities for elevating your cooking are endless. But here's a twist you might not have thought of: citrus salt. Imagine the perfect balance of bright, tangy citrus paired with the savory, essential kick of salt. It’s a simple yet game-changing way to bring complexity to everything from your weeknight dinners to your fancy cocktails. And the best part? You only need three steps to make your own citrus salt at home!

Step 1: Zest Your Citrus

Choose your citrus—lemon, lime, or orange—and zest away! Just make sure you avoid the bitter white pith by turning the fruit as you zest. You’ll want about a tablespoon of zest for every batch. The zest is where all the citrusy goodness is, and that’s what’s going to make your salt pop with flavor.

Step 2: Mix With Salt

Next, grab half a cup of your favorite salt (kosher or flaky works best) and combine it with the citrus zest in a bowl. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the salt. This helps release all the bright, aromatic oils and ensures there are no clumps—just a perfectly infused blend.

Step 3: Bake and Store

Spread your citrusy salt mix on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop it in the oven at 200°F for about an hour. The heat will dry out the citrus without burning it, leaving you with a fragrant, flavorful seasoning. Once cooled, store it in a jar, and you're ready to elevate your meals for up to three months (though, honestly, it won’t last that long!).

Now, the fun part: how to use your new citrus salt. Lime salt is perfect for giving a zesty kick to tacos or fajitas, while lemon salt works wonders as a salted rim for martinis or over roasted chicken. But don't overlook orange salt—it pairs beautifully with desserts, especially chocolate treats. Imagine swapping out regular salt for orange salt in your chocolate chip cookies—it's a flavor revelation!

Once you try it, citrus salt will quickly become a pantry staple. So why settle for boring seasoning when you can brighten up your cooking with just a few simple ingredients?