The world of culinary delights just got a whole lot more interesting with the introduction of Himalayan salt blocks. These natural wonders have been used for centuries to add a touch of sophistication and flavor to a variety of dishes. From savory meats to sweet treats, the possibilities are endless when it comes to using a Himalayan salt block in your cooking. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility and benefits of cooking with a Himalayan salt block.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From pan-seared steak to grilled pineapple slices, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion and taste bud. So go ahead, give your dishes a boost of flavor with the unique properties of a Himalayan salt block.
Seared Scallops on Himalayan Salt Block
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavor of scallops with the mineral notes of a Himalayan salt block.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the scallops with salt.
4. Place a Himalayan salt block in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes to heat up.
5. Remove the salt block from the oven and carefully place the scallops on it, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the scallops and sprinkle with lemon zest.
7. Return the salt block to the oven and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp on Salt Block
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional grilled shrimp, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and sea salt for a dish that’s perfect for summer entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– Salt block, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and salt.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot on a salt block, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Salt Block Chocolate Fondue
Salt Block Chocolate Fondue Recipe
Transform your gatherings with this decadent Salt Block Chocolate Fondue recipe that combines rich, velvety chocolate with the subtle crunch of flaky sea salt. Perfect for dipping fresh fruit, marshmallows, or graham crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
– Fresh fruit, marshmallows, or graham crackers for dipping
Instructions:
1. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and melted.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until simmering.
4. Remove from heat and add butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until dissolved.
5. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the melted chocolate, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the fondue into a serving bowl or individual dipping dishes.
7. Serve immediately, dipping fresh fruit, marshmallows, or graham crackers as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep and melting)
Pan-Seared Steak with Himalayan Salt Block
Experience the bold flavors of a Himalayan salt block paired with a perfectly pan-seared steak.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs ribeye or strip loin steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 Himalayan salt block (at room temperature)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
3. Season the steak with olive oil, black pepper, and a pinch of Himalayan salt.
4. Place the steak in the preheated skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Serve with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Rare: 8-10 minutes
– Medium-rare: 10-12 minutes
– Medium: 12-14 minutes
Salt Block Cured Salmon
Experience the rich flavors of cured salmon with this simple recipe using a salt block and a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large salt block (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp pink peppercorns, crushed
– 2 lemons, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, and crushed pink peppercorns.
4. Place a salt block in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to warm it up.
5. Remove the salt block from the oven and place a salmon fillet on top of it.
6. Sprinkle the curing mixture evenly over the salmon, making sure to cover the entire surface.
7. Top each fillet with a slice of lemon.
8. Cure the salmon for 24 hours at room temperature (about 68°F/20°C).
9. After 24 hours, remove the salmon from the salt block and rinse off excess cure under cold running water.
10. Pat dry with paper towels and serve.
Cooking Time: 24 hours
Grilled Vegetable Platter on Salt Block
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this simple and flavorful recipe. Grill a colorful medley of vegetables on a salt block, perfect for serving as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large zucchini
– 2 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 large red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 salt block (preferably Himalayan pink or fleur de sel)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the vegetables on the preheated salt block in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-24 minutes
Salt Block Seared Tuna
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe. By using a salt block to sear the tuna, you’ll achieve a crispy crust and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 large salt block
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes.
2. Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Drizzle both sides of each tuna steak with olive oil.
4. Place the tuna steaks on the preheated salt block, leaving some space between them.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tuna reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the tuna from the salt block and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops on Salt Block
Elevate your lamb chops with a fragrant herb crust and the natural flavor of salt block cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt, to taste
– 1 salt block (preferably Himalayan pink or flaky sea salt)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Place the lamb chops on the preheated salt block, leaving about 1 inch between each chop.
6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salt Block Baked Brie with Honey
Salt Block Baked Brie with Honey Recipe
This recipe brings together the richness of baked brie and the simplicity of a salt block, paired with the sweetness of honey for a unique and flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 small salt block
– 2 tbsp honey
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salt block on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Wrap the brie wheel in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, leaving one end slightly exposed.
4. Place the wrapped brie on the salt block, making sure it’s centered and not touching any of the edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Grilled Pineapple Slices on Himalayan Salt Block
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 Himalayan salt block, preheated to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Himalayan salt block according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and lime juice.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple slices with the sugar mixture.
4. Place pineapple slices on the preheated salt block in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch between each slice.
5. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Salt Block Seared Duck Breast
A flavorful and tender duck breast dish, elevated by the savory flavor of a salt block.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts (6 oz each)
– 1 large salt block (preferably Himalayan or kosher)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the duck breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil on a salt block over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until it reaches 450°F (230°C) at its center.
4. Sear the duck breasts for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice crust.
5. Transfer the duck breasts to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp on Salt Block
A flavorful and visually stunning appetizer that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop a Himalayan pink salt block. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or elevating your next social gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Himalayan pink salt block, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine butter, garlic, and lemon juice. Heat over low heat until melted and fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and just cooked through.
4. Remove from heat; season with salt to taste.
5. Arrange salt block on a serving plate. Place cooked shrimp on top of the salt block, leaving a small border around each shell.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salt Block Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the smoky flavor of a salt block. This simple yet impressive recipe yields a rich and savory sandwich that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
– Salt block (preferably Himalayan pink salt)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your salt block in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the salt block.
4. Top with grated cheese and place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Seared Halloumi Cheese on Salt Block
A Mediterranean twist on grilled cheese, this recipe brings out the best in halloumi’s creamy, salty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 large salt block
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salt block under cold water, then pat it dry with a paper towel.
3. Place the halloumi cheese on one half of the salt block, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese.
5. Place the other half of the salt block on top of the cheese to create a “sandwich.”
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Salt Block Cured Avocado Slices
Elevate your snacking game with this simple and addictive recipe, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 large salt block (preferably Himalayan or kosher)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. Place a slice of avocado on the salt block, making sure it’s in contact with the surface.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto each slice, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Let the avocados sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the natural enzymes to break down and the flavors to meld.
5. After curing, gently rinse the slices under cold running water to remove excess salt.
6. Pat dry with a paper towel and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Grilled Peach Dessert on Himalayan Salt Block
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled peaches, perfectly balanced by the natural minerality of Himalayan salt.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Himalayan salt block (preferably a flat one)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Himalayan salt block in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and vanilla extract.
3. Brush both sides of the peach slices with the honey-vanilla mixture.
4. Place the peach slices on the preheated Himalayan salt block, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Close the oven door and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Salt Block Seared Pork Chops
Transform pork chops into a savory masterpiece with this easy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of salt blocks with the crispness of a sear.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, 1-2 inches thick
– Salt block (preferably flaky or Himalayan)
– Olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the pork chops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the pork chops with a pinch of salt.
4. Place the salt block in the preheated oven for at least 30 minutes to warm it up.
5. Remove the salt block from the oven and brush it lightly with olive oil.
6. Sear each pork chop on the salt block for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
7. Transfer the seared pork chops to a baking sheet and finish cooking them in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes total
Herbed Chicken Skewers on Salt Block
Herbed Chicken Skewers on Salt Block Recipe
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe for Herbed Chicken Skewers on Salt Block. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer, these skewers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– Salt block (approximately 3-4 inches in diameter)
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block by placing it on a preheated grill or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the herbed oil mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated salt block and cook for 10-12 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-24 minutes
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on grill temperature and desired level of doneness.
Salt Block Cured Watermelon Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the savory flavor of salt block-cured ingredients, perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs seedless watermelon, diced
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced watermelon on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
2. Sprinkle the kosher salt and granulated sugar evenly over the watermelon.
3. Let it cure for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the watermelon from the salt mixture and pat dry with paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
6. Toss the cured watermelon with the dressing until well coated.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves, if using.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (curing time) + assembly time
Grilled Chocolate Chip Cookies on Salt Block
Elevate your cookie game with this unique recipe that combines the crunch of a salt block with the gooey goodness of grilled chocolate chip cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Flaky sea salt (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, white granulated sugar, and brown sugar until just combined.
3. Fold in vanilla extract and chocolate chips.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the preheated salt block, spacing them evenly apart.
5. Close grill lid and cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges are golden.
6. Flip cookies over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and serve warm, sprinkled with flaky sea salt.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Summary
Discover the versatility of Himalayan salt blocks with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes for every occasion. From savory dishes like pan-seared steak and herb-crusted lamb chops to sweet treats like salt block baked brie and grilled chocolate chip cookies, this collection has something for everyone. Impress your guests with seared scallops or shrimp, or indulge in a romantic dinner with salt block seared duck breast. With its unique flavor-enhancing properties, the Himalayan salt block elevates each dish to new heights. Try one (or all!) of these recipes and experience the magic of cooking with this natural wonder.
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