Herb & Spice Infused Sea Salts

Infusing sea salt with a blend of fragrant herbs, citrus and spices is a great way to add a layer of complexity to just about any meal. Sea salt blends are surprisingly simple to make and a fun way to unleash your creativity in the kitchen! They also make lovely gifts.

Because herb and spice infused salts can be used in so many dishes, from meat roasts to vegetarian dishes, potatoes or even on a simple tartine, the flavor combinations are endless. These Citrus Cumin and Herbes de Provence Salts are wonderfully flavorful and versatile.

It's best to use a coarse or flaky salt, so our grey Guérande sea salt is perfect for the job. You can easily size these recipes up or down; a general rule of thumb is to use approximately 1 tsp of herbs or spices per 1/4 cup of salt.

Citrus Cumin Sea Salt

This blend combines the brightness of citrus with the rich, earthy flavors of cumin and red pepper flakes. To prepare, simply mix all the ingredients together. Try pairing this with chicken, hearty grains or a vegetable stew.

Herbes de Provence Sea Salt

Typical of Provençal cuisine, rosemary, thyme and lavender make excellent aromatic herbs, earning them the spotlight in traditional “Herbes de Provence” blends. When paired with a hint of citrus, they will add complex flavor to your dishes. Try this with fish or a rich meat like lamb or beef.

Heat the oven on low (150-200°F). Meanwhile, mix all of the dry ingredients together, finishing with the juice. Line a baking sheet or pan with parchment paper, and spread the salt mixture evenly across the pan.

Let the salt dry in the low oven, stirring occasionally, until it is completely dry. Depending on your oven settings, this will take approximately 1-2 hours. If you’ve increased the size of the recipe, be sure to dry it out in batches so it dries properly.

Hooked on homemade salt blends? Try any of these other great combinations!

• Sage & Fennel Seed
• Lime & Chili Pepper
• Saffron & Meyer Lemon
• Coriander, Chili & Citrus

Hint: if you’re using fresh herbs or ingredients, put the blend in the oven to dry on low. If you pick a seed like fennel or coriander, toasting the seeds before adding them to the mix will bring out extra flavor and aroma.

What are your favorite kinds of finishing salts? Share with us in the comment section below!