Bright and zesty, this lime salt brings a citrusy punch to your favorite dishes using just coarse sea salt and fresh lime zest. It's got that tart, nose-tingling aroma that'll have you wanting to sprinkle it on everything from tacos to popcorn. Easy to make and wildly versatile, this pantry upgrade will quickly become a kitchen staple!
1/2cup(80g)coarse sea saltflaky or coarse, such as Maldon or Celtic
Equipment
Microplane or fine grater
Oven
Baking tray
Parchment paper (optional)
Airtight jar
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Instructions
Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
Zest the lime, being careful to remove only the green outer layer and avoid the bitter white pith. A microplane works best for fine zesting.
In a small bowl, combine the fresh lime zest with the sea salt. Mix thoroughly with your fingers to distribute the zest evenly throughout the salt.
Spread the mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined (or unlined) baking tray in a thin layer.
Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. The goal is to dry out the zest without browning—your kitchen will smell fragrant and citrusy when it's done.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the tray. The salt will crisp up a bit more as it cools.
Once fully cooled and dry, transfer the lime salt to an airtight jar for storage. Label and store at room temperature.
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight jar at room temp. It keeps for several weeks—just shake or stir if it clumps.Customizations: Add chili flakes for chili lime salt, swap lime for other citrus zest, use pink Himalayan salt for color, add chopped herbs, or mix in a bit of sugar for sweet-sour flavor.Serving Ideas: Use on margarita or cocktail rims, sprinkle on fresh fruit, finish grilled fish or meats, dust on roasted veggies, popcorn, potatoes, or even avocado toast.