Lime salt is all the rage right now! Who knew such a simple blend could pack this much of a punch?
From elevating avocado toast to jazzing up cocktails, lime salt is the unsung hero in the kitchen.
It’s like sea salt went on a tropical vacation and came back wearing sunglasses.
So, why not give it a go?
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Lime Salt
Burst of Citrus Flavor: It combines the tangy zest of lime with sea salt for a bright, citrusy kick.
Versatile Use: Perfect for seasoning meats, rimming cocktail glasses, or enhancing salads and snacks.
Easy to Make: Just a few simple steps to create a gourmet ingredient at home.
Long-Lasting: Store it in an airtight container, and it stays fresh and ready to use.
Customizable: Adjust the lime intensity or pair with other citrus zest for your own flavor blend!
Ingredients
- Sea Salt: It’s the foundation of your lime salt, giving you that signature salty bite. Its coarse grains are perfect for mixing with other ingredients.
- Grated Lime Zest: A burst of tangy flavor, freshly zested lime peels infuse the salt with vibrant and refreshing notes.
How to Make Lime Salt
Lime salt is a incredible mix of lime’s bright, zesty flavor and the grounding taste of classic sea salt.
Sounds simple, right? But believe me, it’s a game changer in the kitchen.
Sprinkle some on some watermelon or pineapple, and it’s instantly transformed. The subtle tang complements the sweetness oh-so-perfectly.
And for all you cocktail enthusiasts, especially margarita fans out there, listen up!
Rimming your glass with lime salt? Game. Changer. Every sip feels like a mini fiesta.
Follow these simple steps to make it:
1. PREHEAT the oven to 225°F.
2. MIX the sea salt and grated lime zest in a small bowl until well combined.
3. SPREAD the mixture evenly over a baking tray.
4. BAKE for 30 minutes, or until the salt and zest blend is completely dry.
5. COOL the salt on the tray entirely before transferring to an airtight container.
6. STORE at room temperature and use as desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Follow these simple tips to make the best lime salt possible:
- Fresh vs. dried: Go with fresh lemons and limes for the most robust taste. You never know quite how strong the flavor will be with dried.
- Grind it up: Got a molcajete (mortar and pestle)? Perfect. No? A spice grinder will do. Just don’t go overboard; you’re looking for zest, not dust!
- Zest wisely: Stick to the green! Avoid the white pith of the lime – it’s a sneaky bitter culprit.
- Use a food processor: For a super-blended lime salt, pulse the zest and salt in a food processor. Pre or post-baking, it’s all good!
Variations
Looking to jazz things up? Try these variations:
- Citrus types: Got grapefruit, mandarins, or oranges? Dive in! Mix and match citrus to find your favorite kind of zest.
- Spice it up: Add a touch of pizzazz with hot chilies or fresh herbs. Toss in garlic, pepper, or cumin. Whatever you fancy!
- Smokey notes: Opt for smoked sea salt for that irresistible BBQ vibe.
- A sweet touch: Add a sprinkle of sugar for a sweet, salty, and zesty mix!
How to Store
To Store: Keep your lime salt fresh by storing it in an airtight container.
Thanks to the salt and citrus acidity, it can last several months to a year.
For best results, ensure no moisture gets in to avoid clumpy salt.
Serving Ideas for Lime Salt
Lime salt is a super versatile seasoning, perfect for enhancing a range of dishes.
Sprinkle it over salads, use it to rim cocktail glasses, or add a zesty kick to grilled veggies and meats.
Its citrusy punch elevates flavors and adds a delightful twist.
Give these recipes a go: