Salt

Sodium chloride (NaCl) Seasoning

Salt Seasoning

At a Glance

  • Category Seasoning

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate flavor amplifier, transforming bland ingredients into vibrant dishes while playing a critical role in culinary chemistry and preservation."

Definition

An essential mineral and ubiquitous seasoning, vital for enhancing flavors, preserving food, and biological functions.

Science Sodium ions in salt are crucial for nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and maintaining fluid balance in the human body.
Storage Indefinite shelf life; store in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping and moisture absorption.
Usage Used in nearly all savory dishes and many sweet ones to balance and enhance flavors globally.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Salt are:

Salty (primary taste) can have mineral notes depending on origin (e.g. subtle sweetness in pink Himalayan)

Chef’s Secret

Seasoning in layers throughout the cooking process, rather than all at once at the end, builds deeper, more balanced flavor profiles in any dish.

Best Substitutes

N/A

Salt is unique in its primary taste and function, though other seasonings provide umami or sharpness

Buying Guide

Kosher salt is preferred by many chefs for its crystal size and even seasoning; sea salt offers distinct mineral complexities.

Recipes Using Salt

15 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Easy Dietary

Basic Chocolate Cake Mix Vegan Spelt

This unbelievably easy recipe uses minimal ingredients to create a healthy and delicious vegan chocolate cake, brownie, muffin, or pudding! Made with wholesome spelt flour (or all-purpose flour), this recipe is naturally oil-free and adaptable to your preferences. Add chocolate chips for a fudgy texture, nuts and cherries for added flavor and texture, or coconut for a tropical twist. Perfect for baking enthusiasts of all levels, this recipe is also great for meal prepping – make the dry mix in batches and store it for quick and easy baking anytime! The applesauce keeps it moist, ensuring delicious results whether fresh, frozen, or reheated.

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Fruit Dietary Fruit Oven

Apple Cranberry Scones

Warm up your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of these homemade Apple Cranberry Scones! Bursting with juicy cranberries and sweet apples, these scones are perfectly flaky and tender. A delightful breakfast or brunch treat, perfect for weekend mornings or a special occasion. This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Main Ingredient Preparation Vegetarian Time To Make

Chili For All My Vegan Friends

This unbelievably delicious vegan chili is so hearty and flavorful, it'll fool even the most dedicated meat-lovers! Made with soy crumbles for a satisfying texture, this recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Easy to make ahead, it gets even better the next day! Enjoy with cornbread and your favorite toppings.

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Meat Time To Make Main Ingredient Main Dish

Beef Broccoli Calzone Oamc

This Beef Broccoli Calzone recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make-ahead and freeze this cheesy, savory calzone, bursting with tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli. A delicious and easy weeknight dinner, ready in under an hour. #beefbroccoli #calzone #oamc #mealprep #easyrecipe #comfortfood

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Course Course 60 Minutes Or Less Breads

Almond Chocolate Marble Muffins

Indulge in the delightful swirls of our Almond Chocolate Marble Muffins! These moist and tender muffins combine a crunchy almond batter with rich chocolate, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for a mid-morning treat with coffee or a delightful addition to your brunch spread. Each bite offers a surprising burst of almond and chocolate, making them irresistible!

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Dinner Party Dinner Party Vegetables Stove Top

Barbecued Corn With Roasted Garlic Butter Bbq

Sweet corn explodes with flavor in this irresistible Barbecued Corn with Roasted Garlic Butter BBQ recipe! Grilled to perfection and slathered in a creamy, garlicky BBQ butter, this side dish is a summer sensation. Get ready for a flavor burst in every bite!

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Elbow Macaroni Course Salads Pasta Rice And Grains

Bacon Club Macaroni Salad

This creamy and dreamy Bacon Club Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Crispy bacon (or savory ham!), sharp cheddar, crisp celery, and tangy olives combine with perfectly cooked macaroni in a rich mayonnaise-based dressing. A touch of horseradish adds a delightful kick! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a weeknight side dish. Easily doubled for larger gatherings.

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Dietary Main Dish Side Dishes Low In Something

Basic Dough For Spinach Meat And Cheese Pies Middle East Pa

Unlock the secret to unbelievably soft and delicious dough for your favorite Middle Eastern pies! This recipe, adapted from a cherished family cookbook, uses milk instead of water for a richer flavor and texture. A clever olive oil trick ensures incredible softness and a delightful bake. Perfect for savory spinach and meat pies, cheese pies, or even homemade pizza! Prepare to be amazed by the results.

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Dietary Low Cholesterol Time To Make Course

Barbecue Seasoning Mix

Fire up the grill and get ready for BBQ bliss! This massive batch of homemade barbecue seasoning mix will last you all summer long. Perfect for ribs, chicken, pork, and more, this versatile blend is also amazing for broiling or baking your favorite meats. Make one batch for grilling and another for indoor cooking – you won't regret it!

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Preparation Time To Make Low Protein Salad Dressings

Apple Cider Vinegar And Honey Vinaigrette Dressing

Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Apple Cider Vinegar & Honey Vinaigrette! This zesty dressing is the perfect complement to fresh baby greens, crisp apples, crunchy candied walnuts, and creamy mild cheese. Inspired by a collection of recipes, this refined version delivers the ideal balance of sweet and tangy. Use unfiltered apple cider vinegar and fresh honey for the best flavor (but any type will work!). Quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious – get ready to experience salad perfection!

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Inexpensive Cuisine Dietary Breakfast

German Buckwheat Pancakes

Indulge in the hearty, crispy goodness of authentic German Buckwheat Pancakes! Unlike fluffy American pancakes, these savory delights are a traditional powerhouse breakfast, fueling generations of German workers. This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful pancakes perfect with apple butter, golden syrup, and pumpernickel – or try a unique twist with green salad, fried onions, and red currant jelly! While not exactly diet food, these pancakes are a delicious treat you won't regret. Prepare for a taste of German culinary heritage!

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Dietary Preparation Course Dietary

Baby Spinach And Raspberry Salad

A vibrant and delicious salad bursting with fresh flavors! Sweet raspberries, tender baby spinach, and crunchy toasted sunflower seeds come together in a light and tangy honey-herb vinaigrette. This easy 14-minute recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or healthy weeknight dinner.

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Side Dishes Inexpensive Dinner Party Course

Baby Roasted Deviled Potatoes

Crispy, perfectly roasted baby potatoes tossed in a creamy, spicy deviled butter sauce! This easy recipe is ready in under an hour and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish. Easily adaptable for larger potatoes too! Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Holiday Event 30 Minutes Or Less Vegetables Course

Anise Carrots

Experience a flavor explosion with our Anise Carrots recipe! The subtle sweetness of carrots perfectly complements the warm, licorice-like notes of anise, creating a dish that's both simple and unforgettable. This easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated side dish.

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Time To Make Condiments Etc Course Low Cholesterol

Barbecue Sauce

Unlock that down-home barbecue flavor with this easy-to-make recipe! This smoky, tangy sauce is perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or anything that needs a delicious flavor boost. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering masterpiece!

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Desserts Taste Mood Low In Something Occasion

Apple Walnut Cobbler

Warm up your autumn with this irresistible Apple Walnut Cobbler, a family heirloom recipe! Easy to make, this comforting dessert features sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth topping. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

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Low In Something 4 Hours Or Less Winter High In Something

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Oamc

Juicy chicken breasts wrapped in crispy bacon – the ultimate make-ahead meal! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe lets you prep ahead and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Thaw and bake or enjoy fresh – it's that easy!

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Course Pasta Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Awesome Macaroni Salad

This creamy, dreamy macaroni salad is the perfect side dish for your next summer barbecue, potluck, or picnic! Made with [list key ingredients e.g., elbow macaroni, celery, and a tangy homemade dressing], this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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