Are you a creative cook looking to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory salt map recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. From herbed salt-crusted potatoes to spiced salted nuts and everything in between, these unique flavor combinations are sure to delight even the most adventurous palates.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, salt is an essential ingredient that can elevate any dish. But what happens when you combine it with other flavors and textures? The possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll dive into some of our favorite salt map recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal.
Herbed Salt-Crusted Potatoes
Herbed Salt-Crusted Potatoes: A Simple yet Flavorful Side Dish
Elevate your potato game with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. With a crunchy herb-infused crust and fluffy interior, these potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, flaky sea salt, and kosher salt.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Pepper Salt-Cured Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of cured salmon with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper, resulting in a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, sugar, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
4. Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the salmon, then sprinkle the salt mixture over the zest.
5. Drizzle the lemon juice and water over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Cure in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Remove from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Garlic Rosemary Salt-Crusted Chicken
This recipe combines the savory flavors of garlic, rosemary, and salt to create a deliciously aromatic and crispy chicken dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and kosher salt.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the garlic-rosemary-salt mixture all over each chicken breast, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Salted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the savory flavors of smoky paprika and flaky salt with crunchy nuts. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until the nuts are fragrant and lightly toasted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Citrus Zest Salted Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this refreshing twist on classic avocado toast. The combination of creamy avocado, zesty citrus, and flaky sea salt will leave you feeling revitalized and ready to take on the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
– 1 tsp flaky sea salt
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Mash the avocados in a bowl and stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and sea salt until smooth.
3. Spread the avocado mixture onto the toasted bread slices.
4. Top with chopped parsley for added freshness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Chili Salted Mango Slices
Elevate your snack game with this addictive fusion of sweet and spicy flavors. Crunchy mango slices get a bold boost from chili flakes, salt, and lime juice, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, sliced into thin wedges
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sea salt and chili flakes.
2. Arrange mango slices on a plate or tray.
3. Sprinkle the chili-salt mixture evenly over the mango, making sure each slice gets a good coating.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the mango, just enough to coat without overpowering the other flavors.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – this is a no-cook recipe!
Maple Salted Caramel Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible combination of crunchy popcorn, rich caramel, and a hint of maple syrup. Perfect for movie nights or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in maple syrup and sea salt. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the popped popcorn and sprinkle with baking soda. Toss until well coated.
6. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sea Salt and Vinegar Roasted Chickpeas
Elevate your snack game with these addictive roasted chickpeas flavored with sea salt and vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Optional: additional seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, sea salt, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crunchy texture, try roasting the chickpeas at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for a shorter amount of time (20-25 minutes).
– Experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.
Black Truffle Salted French Fries
Elevate your snack game with these decadent Black Truffle Salted French Fries!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp black truffle salt
– 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the potato strips in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the fries from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. In a small bowl, mix together black truffle salt, sugar, and regular salt.
6. Toss the warm fries with the truffle salt mixture until evenly coated.
7. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Toasted Coconut Salted Dark Chocolate Bark
Elevate your chocolate game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the richness of dark chocolate, the crunch of toasted coconut flakes, and the savory touch of flaky sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (30g) toasted coconut flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes and sea salt evenly over the chocolate layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Break into pieces and serve. If desired, add chopped nuts or dried fruit on top before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Rosemary Salted Focaccia Bread
This recipe yields a fragrant and flavorful focaccia bread infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the savory taste of salt. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for sandwiches, this Italian-inspired bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Coarse sea salt for finishing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, kneading the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt evenly over the surface.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lavender Salted Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these delicate shortbread cookies infused with the subtle sweetness of lavender and a touch of flaky salt. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lavender buds and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Jalapeño Salted Corn on the Cob
This recipe adds a bold and creamy kick to traditional grilled corn on the cob, perfect for summer gatherings or everyday snacking. A simple combination of jalapeños, butter, salt, and lime juice elevates this classic side dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chopped cilantro, and chopped jalapeños.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Brush the jalapeño-cilantro butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the corn and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Bean Salted Caramel Sauce
Elevate your desserts with this velvety-smooth vanilla bean salted caramel sauce, perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, or fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and 1/4 cup (60ml) of the heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in remaining 1/4 cup (60ml) of heavy cream, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add split vanilla bean and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Strain sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding vanilla bean.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including steeping time)
Five-Spice Salted Roasted Almonds
Transform plain roasted almonds into a flavorful snack with the aromatic warmth of five-spice powder and a touch of salt. This recipe is perfect for munching on while watching a movie or as a crunchy addition to your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the five-spice powder and flaky sea salt.
3. Toss the almonds with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the almonds and toss to combine.
5. Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Salted Tomato Bruschetta
A classic Italian-inspired appetizer that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil and a touch of saltiness, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or fleur de sel)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto the bread, leaving a small border around each slice.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Salted Rice Crackers
Add a touch of Japanese elegance to your snack time with these crispy and flavorful Matcha Salted Rice Crackers. Perfect for pairing with your favorite tea or as a crunchy accompaniment to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, flour, matcha powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add in water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crackers are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into individual crackers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cinnamon Salted Apple Chips
Transform fresh apples into crispy, sweet, and savory snacks with this simple recipe. Perfect as a healthy treat or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add apple slices to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your apples.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the apples are dry and crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get creative with salt and elevate your cooking game! This collection of 18 savory recipes showcases the versatility of salt as an ingredient. From Herbed Salt-Crusted Potatoes to Spicy Chili Salted Mango Slices, and from Garlic Rosemary Salt-Crusted Chicken to Toasted Coconut Salted Dark Chocolate Bark, these unique flavor combinations will inspire your next culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a show-stopping dish, this article has something for everyone.
