Seasoning | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Table Salt

Sodium chloride Allergen-Free
Table Salt

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sea Water, Underground Salt Deposits

The Forktionary Angle

"The foundational flavor enhancer: more than just salty."

Definition

A crystalline mineral primarily composed of sodium chloride, universally used as a seasoning, curing agent, and preservative in cooking.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty
TextureCrystalline, Gritty (fine)
AromaNone
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Chemical Composition

Primarily Sodium Chloride (NaCl) at 97-99% purity

Granule Size

Fine crystals, ideal for baking and even dissolving

Iodine Fortification

Often fortified with iodine to prevent deficiency

Nutrition Facts

Per 6 g (1 tsp)
Calories0 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium24 mg
Iron0.33 mg
Potassium8 mg

Chef’s Secret

Salt draws out moisture; when salting meat or vegetables, plan for this effect in cooking methods. For brines, ensure full dissolution.

Substitutions

Best Match

Kosher Salt

1:1 by weight, 1.5:1 by volume

Best for general cooking and seasoning due to its larger crystals and purer taste.

Sea Salt

1:1 by weight

Good for finishing, often contains trace minerals that impart a subtle flavor difference.

Himalayan Pink Salt

1:1 by weight

Visually appealing for finishing, contains various trace minerals, similar salinity.

Salt Substitute (potassium chloride)

1:1

For low-sodium diets, but can have a metallic aftertaste.

Buying Guide

Choose iodized salt for iodine intake, or non-iodized for specific baking/fermentation needs. Store in an airtight container.

Flavor Pairings

Enhances nearly all savory and many sweet dishes; essential for balancing flavors.

Recipes Using Table Salt

Course Heirloom Historical Holiday Event Time To Make

Relatively Healthy Cinnamon Buns

Indulge in guilt-free deliciousness with these surprisingly healthy cinnamon buns! Inspired by a Weight Watchers recipe, these fluffy, flavorful treats are unbelievably moist and aromatic. The perfect weekend breakfast or sweet treat – you won't believe how light and satisfying they are!

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Food Processor Blender Crusts Pastry Dough 2 Dietary Food Processor Blender

All Butter Pie Crust Pastry

This all-butter pie crust recipe creates a flawlessly flaky crust that stays crispy, even under the soggiest fillings! Our foolproof method ensures tender, delicious results every time. Perfect for pies, tarts, and more!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Low Cholesterol

Almost No Knead Bread

Achieve bakery-quality bread with minimal effort! This Almost No-Knead Artisan Bread recipe, adapted from Cook's Illustrated, yields a stunning, crusty loaf with a fluffy interior. Made in a Dutch oven for perfect results, this recipe uses a simple combination of everyday ingredients and requires surprisingly little kneading. Perfect for beginner bakers and experienced bread enthusiasts alike. Enjoy this delicious bread the day it's baked, or store it for up to two days.

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4 Hours Or Less 4 Hours Or Less North American Time To Make

America's Test Kitchen Coconut Layer Cake

Indulge in this decadent Coconut Layer Cake, a stunning masterpiece from America's Test Kitchen! This recipe features moist, tender coconut cakes layered with a dreamy coconut buttercream frosting and toasted coconut flakes for the ultimate tropical treat. Prepare to impress with this show-stopping dessert.

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Stove Top Chicken Breasts Presentation Dinner Party

Apple Braised Chicken

Juicy and flavorful apple braised chicken, a low-point, healthy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner! This recipe uses fat-free liquid to simmer tender chicken breasts, creating a moist and delicious dish. Experiment with different broths and juices to customize your flavor profile. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, 5-star recipe!

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Very Low Carbs Meat Cuisine South American

Argentinian Grilled Flank Steak With Chimichurri Sauce

Sizzle into summer with this vibrant Argentinian Grilled Flank Steak recipe! Our simple grilling technique and zesty, herb-packed chimichurri sauce transform a humble flank steak into a culinary masterpiece. Inspired by Cook's Illustrated's 2009 summer grilling issue, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for juicy, flavorful steak and a sauce that will have you licking your fingers!

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Healthy North American Low Saturated Fat Easy

Authentic Texas Chicken Fried Steak Seasoning Mix

Sizzle into Texas flavor with our Authentic Texas Chicken Fried Steak Seasoning Mix! This incredible blend of spices creates the perfect crispy, savory crust for your chicken fried steak. Easy to make and even easier to use, this homemade seasoning mix elevates your classic dish to new heights of deliciousness. Skip the store-bought stuff and make your own authentic Texas taste sensation!

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Vegetarian Dietary Main Ingredient Time To Make

Baby Red Salt Potatoes

Elevate your simple side dish with these incredibly flavorful Baby Red Salt Potatoes! Only three ingredients are needed to create a surprisingly delicious and addictive potato dish. Perfect as a side for any meal, this recipe is a game-changer. Inspired by Recipe Cottage, this recipe is unbelievably easy and unbelievably good – you'll be amazed! Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings.

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Occasion Main Dish Eggs Dairy Occasion

Baked Butternut Squash Raisin And Pine Nut Lasagna

This creamy, dreamy lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic! Sweet butternut squash, plump raisins, and crunchy pine nuts create a surprisingly satisfying and flavorful combination. A healthier alternative to traditional red sauce lasagna, this recipe is perfect for Weight Watchers (approximately 7 points per serving) or anyone looking for a comforting, gourmet meal. The creamy cheese sauce and perfectly layered pasta create a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Prepare for a taste sensation!

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Main Dish Time To Make North American 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Four Cheese Pasta With Tomatoes And Basil

Indulge in this irresistible Baked Four Cheese Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil! A creamy, cheesy masterpiece, perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course alongside a fresh salad. This recipe, inspired by Cook's Illustrated, delivers a restaurant-quality experience in under 40 minutes. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Penne Savory One Dish Meal Easy

Baked Pasta With Butternut Squash And Ricotta

Indulge in this hearty and elegant baked pasta casserole! Creamy ricotta, roasted butternut squash, and crunchy walnuts perfectly complement whole wheat penne in a cheesy, comforting dish. A Weight Watchers-approved recipe (5 points!), perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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North American American Quail Cuisine

Baked Quail

Elevate your game with this exquisite Baked Quail recipe! Perfect for both seasoned hunters and adventurous home cooks, this recipe transforms tender quail into a culinary masterpiece. Featuring a rich, savory sauce and simple yet elegant preparation, this dish is sure to impress. Easily adaptable for Cornish hens, this recipe is your go-to for a sophisticated yet approachable meal. Discover the deliciousness of wild-game or enjoy farm-fresh poultry prepared to perfection.

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Beginner Cook Low Saturated Fat Easy Beginner Cook

Baked Spicy French Fries Ww Core

Crispy, spicy, and totally guilt-free! These baked French fries are even better than the deep-fried versions. Made with a secret blend of spices, they're perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside – without all the unhealthy fat. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both healthy and delicious! Perfect for Weight Watchers.

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30 Minutes Or Less Course Time To Make Breads

Banana Muffin Tops Or Muffins And Mini Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of these moist banana muffins! This versatile recipe works perfectly in muffin tins, mini muffin tins, or for creating delicious muffin tops. Made with very ripe bananas for maximum flavor, this recipe yields approximately 12 standard muffins, 10 muffin tops, or 24-30 mini muffins. Adapted from Diana's Desserts, with a few delicious tweaks for extra deliciousness!

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Low Carb Pork High Protein Preparation

Basic Roasted Pork Tenderloin 3 Ww Points

This perfectly simple recipe from WW (Weight Watchers) delivers a succulent and flavorful pork tenderloin in just 35 minutes! Impress your family with this lean, healthy, and delicious 3-WW Points meal. Tender, juicy pork, perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices – a weeknight winner!

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Time To Make Easy Inexpensive 15 Minutes Or Less

Better For You Egg Salad

This lightened-up egg salad recipe is a Weight Watchers winner (3 points per serving, excluding bread)! Packed with protein and flavor, it's perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or snack. Enjoy it on toasted oat bran or rye bread, or eat it straight from the bowl! (Bonus: your dog will love the extra yolks!)

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Preparation Time To Make Hand Formed Cookies 3 Steps Or Less

Big Super Nutty Peanut Butter Cookies

Craving the ultimate peanut butter cookie? Look no further! This recipe, adapted from Cook's Illustrated, delivers outrageously delicious, chewy cookies packed with nutty peanut flavor. The secret? Bringing your butter, peanut butter, and eggs to room temperature for perfectly blended dough, and grinding your peanuts for optimal texture and to prevent them from falling out. Get ready for a taste sensation that'll have you reaching for another (and another!). These cookies are perfect for sharing (or not!).

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Mushrooms Time To Make Heirloom Historical Green Yellow Beans

Green Bean Casserole From Cooks Illustrated

Elevate your holiday table with this gourmet green bean casserole! Our recipe, inspired by Cooks Illustrated, uses fresh green beans and homemade mushroom sauce for an unforgettable taste. Skip the canned soup and embrace the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients in this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion!

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