Name: Simple Salt & Pepper Mix
Prep time: 2 min
Total time: 2 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 parts salt; 1 part pepper

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A Salt and Pepper Mix might not seem like a big deal, but it can actually make all the difference in your cooking. This simple mix of two basic ingredients is a staple in every spice cabinet and can be used to enhance the flavor of almost any dish. Make a bunch and have it on hand for whenever you need it!

Salt and pepper mix in a shallow dish over a wooden surface.

An Effortless Flavor-Enhancer

As a long-time home cook, I’ve found that sometimes the simplest things can make the biggest impact in my cooking. One of those things is a salt and pepper mix. It’s incredible how just a sprinkle of this mixture can elevate the taste of a dish!

No matter what recipe ideas you have in mind, a good salt and pepper blend is such a great cooking hack. This kitchen essential is laughably easy to make, and it’s so convenient to have this mixture pre-made and on hand.

I like to use black peppercorns and coarse kosher salt for the base of my mix, but you can really mix it up and get creative with different types of peppercorns, salts, and even added ingredients like herbs or spices. Explore, experiment, and enjoy!

10 parts salt and 1 part pepper over a wooden surface.

Ingredients

It’s just a 10-to-1 ratio of salt to pepper. Seriously, that’s the whole “recipe.”

10 parts salt: coarse kosher salt, sea salt, or any type of salt you prefer
1 part pepper: Fresh ground pepper is preferred, but you can use store-bought.

What kind of salt and pepper should I use?

For the salt portion of your 10:1 mix, kosher salt and sea salt are both excellent choices. I find kosher salt to be the best salt for everyday cooking because it’s not too salty and has a nice texture. Sea salt, on the other hand, is great for finishing dishes, but can be expensive to use in large quantities.

For high-quality pepper, freshly ground black pepper is ideal, but for a different flavor profile, don’t hesitate to experiment with white pepper as well. In general, it’s best to grind your own pepper using a pepper grinder rather than buying pre-ground pepper, as the flavor will be much fresher.

Adding freshly ground pepper to a shallow dish of salt.

Add Extra Flavor

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, earthy kick.
Onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth.
Smoked paprika: Offers a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
Chili powder or Cajun seasoning: Adds heat and bold spice.
Dried herbs like oregano or thyme: Infuses a fresh, aromatic touch.

How to Make Salt and Pepper Mix

This one’s self-explanatory. Just mix the 10 parts salt and 1 part pepper together. Then, whenever you’d normally grab the salt and pepper shakers, use your new mix instead!

10 parts salt and 1 part pepper in a shallow dish over a wooden surface.

Ways to Use Salt & Pepper Seasoning Mix

This versatile seasoning blend isn’t just for shaking at the dinner table. Let’s explore some of the easiest and most delicious ways to use it.

Pouring the chicken marinade over raw chicken in a glass mixing bowl.

Marinades

Kickstart your marinades with this mix as the foundation. Whisk it into a little oil, maybe with some garlic or herbs, and let your chicken, steak, or tofu soak up all that savory goodness. The salt works to tenderize and season deeply, while the pepper adds a subtle, familiar heat that makes everything taste more like itself, just better.

Here are some recipes to start with:

Recipe for air fryer boneless skinless chicken breasts

Dry Rubs

A dry rub is the simple way to get a killer crust. Generously pat this salt and pepper blend directly onto pork shoulders, brisket, or even chicken wings before they hit the grill or smoker. It creates a beautifully seasoned bark that perfectly complements the natural, juicy flavors of the meat without overpowering them.

Try this out as a dry rub on these recipes:

Adding black pepper to roasted asparagus recipe.

Seasoning

Keep a shaker of this mix next to the stove and use it to elevate your everyday cooking. It’s the perfect finish for everything from crispy French fries and roasted veggies to creamy soups and fresh salads, delivering that mouthwatering, crave-worthy taste.

Use this salt and pepper mix to season these dishes:

Storage Recommendations

Pretty basic! Pour your salt and pepper mix into a spice jar and store it in a cool, dry place. Room temperature is fine. The mix can last for up to 6 months if stored properly, but for the best flavor, it’s ideal to use it within 3 months.

Recipe

Simple Salt & Pepper Mix

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Author: Jason N.
Total Time: 2 minutes

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Description

This salt and pepper mix might seem simple, but it can seriously boost your cooking. It’s essential for any spice rack, so mix some up and keep it ready when needed.