Are you a garlic fanatic? Do you dream of garlic bread, crave garlic pasta, and yearn for the pungent, savory punch of garlic in every dish? Then get ready to elevate your cooking game with this unbelievably flavorful homemade garlic seasoning! This recipe is incredibly easy, requires minimal ingredients, and will transform your everyday meals into culinary masterpieces. It's the perfect addition to your pantry for easy healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Say goodbye to bland food and hello to delicious dishes bursting with garlicky goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried garlic flakes (finely minced garlic works too!)
- 1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked, your choice!)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients. Make sure to thoroughly mix everything together so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
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Blend (optional): For a finer texture, you can use a spice grinder or a food processor to pulse the mixture briefly. This step is entirely optional; the seasoning will be delicious regardless.
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Store: Once thoroughly mixed, transfer the seasoning to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark, and dry place. This homemade garlic seasoning will keep for several months, maintaining its vibrant flavor.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your preferences. Love oregano? Add a bit more! Want less heat? Skip the cayenne pepper. This recipe is your starting point for culinary experimentation!
- Fresh garlic alternative: While this recipe uses dried garlic, you can substitute it with an equal amount of finely minced fresh garlic. Keep in mind that fresh garlic will have a more intense flavor and might not store as long.
- Storage is key: Using an airtight container is crucial to keep your seasoning fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Garlic Seasoning:
- Roasted vegetables: Sprinkle generously over roasted potatoes, broccoli, carrots, or any vegetable of your choice for intense flavor.
- Meat rubs: This seasoning works wonderfully as a rub for chicken, pork, beef, or lamb. It adds a fantastic depth of flavor to grilled, baked, or pan-fried meats.
- Pasta dishes: Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite pasta sauce for a quick and flavorful upgrade.
- Soups and stews: A sprinkle of this seasoning adds a complex garlicky taste to soups, stews, and chili.
- Seasoning for eggs: Sprinkle it on scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas for a delicious savory boost.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Seasoning: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a bright and zesty twist.
- Italian Garlic Seasoning: Increase the oregano and add 1 teaspoon of basil for a classic Italian flair.
- Spicy Garlic Seasoning: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 10-15
- Fat: 0-1g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
- Protein: 0-1g
- Fiber: 0-1g
Making your own homemade garlic seasoning is a fantastic way to improve the flavor of your cooking while also saving money. This easy recipe provides a great base that you can customize to your liking. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect garlic seasoning blend!