Get ready to elevate your cooking game with a unique and flavorful twist: Himalayan salt blocks! These natural, crystalline wonders have become a staple in many professional kitchens, and for good reason. Not only do they add a touch of drama to any dish, but they also impart a subtle, savory flavor that complements a wide range of ingredients.
From seared scallops to grilled vegetables, cured salmon to chocolate truffles, we’ve gathered 20 creative Himalayan salt block recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these innovative dishes are sure to inspire and delight. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the wonders of Himalayan salt blocks for yourself!
Seared Scallops on Himalayan Salt Block
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the unique flavors and textures of seared scallops on a Himalayan salt block. This method allows for even cooking and adds a touch of savory elegance to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Himalayan salt block in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Pat dry the scallops with paper towels and season with a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil on the preheated salt block over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, if using, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the scallops from the salt block and serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Garlic and Herb on Salt Block
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a summer evening. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the pungency of garlic, the brightness of herbs, and the natural saltiness of a salt block.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt block (preferably a Himalayan pink salt or kosher salt)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Brush the shrimp with olive oil and season with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Place the shrimp on the preheated salt block, leaving some space between each one.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Salt Block Cured Salmon Gravlax
Cure your salmon with the power of salt and time to create a mouthwatering gravlax that’s perfect for appetizers or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet (preferably wild-caught)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tbsp black peppercorns
– 1 tsp coriander seeds
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillet under cold running water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, water, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds until well combined.
4. Place the salmon fillet on a large piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat. Sprinkle the cure mixture evenly over the fish, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 3-4 hours, or until the salmon is cured to your liking.
6. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it cool at room temperature.
7. Slice the gravlax thinly and serve with crackers, bread, or as part of a charcuterie board.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Chocolate Truffles Set on Himalayan Salt Block
Transforming rich chocolate truffles into a culinary experience, this recipe pairs velvety treats with the natural flavor-enhancing properties of a Himalayan salt block. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of flaky sea salt
– Himalayan salt block
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers.
2. Remove from heat and add dark chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Stir in softened butter, vanilla extract, and flaky sea salt.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to chill and firm up.
5. Scoop small portions of the mixture onto a Himalayan salt block, allowing them to set at room temperature (about 30 minutes).
6. Serve chilled truffles on the Himalayan salt block, garnished with additional flaky sea salt if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh heavy cream.
– Experiment with different flavor combinations by adding nuts, spices, or liqueurs to the mixture.
– Store truffles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Salt Block Seared Tuna Steak
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe that highlights the rich taste of tuna steak.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 large salt block
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the tuna steaks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil on the salt block over medium-high heat. You may need to rotate the salt block every few minutes to ensure even heating.
4. Sear the tuna steaks for 30-45 seconds per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the tuna from the salt block and season with lemon zest, salt, and any other desired herbs or spices.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes total
Grilled Vegetables on Himalayan Salt Block
Transform ordinary vegetables into a flavorful masterpiece by grilling them on a Himalayan salt block. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a touch of sophistication and nutrition to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms)
– 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon zest, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Himalayan salt block in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Brush both sides of the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings.
3. Place the vegetables on the hot salt block, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Salt Block Charcuterie Board
Elevate your charcuterie game with a unique and flavorful twist – using salt blocks! This recipe combines cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and fresh garnishes to create a visually stunning and savory board.
Ingredients:
– 1 large Himalayan pink salt block
– Assorted cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami, ham)
– Artisanal cheeses (e.g., chèvre, gouda, blue cheese)
– Fresh fruits (e.g., grapes, berries, apple slices)
– Nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
– Jams and honey
– Edible flowers or microgreens (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
2. Arrange the cured meats on the salt block, leaving space between each piece.
3. Add slices of artisanal cheese around the meats.
4. Scatter fresh fruits and nuts throughout the board.
5. Drizzle jams and honey over the selection.
6. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens, if desired.
7. Serve immediately, as the salt block will continue to warm and enhance the flavors.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Seared Filet Mignon on Himalayan Salt Block
Elevate your dining experience with this simple yet impressive recipe. A hot Himalayan salt block sears the filet to perfection, locking in juices and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6-oz) filets mignon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Himalayan salt block in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes.
2. Season the filets with salt, pepper, and thyme. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
3. Place the filets on the hot Himalayan salt block, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the desired level of doneness is reached. Use a thermometer to check internal temperature (130°F/54°C for medium-rare).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Salt Block Sushi Platter
A modern twist on traditional sushi, this recipe uses a salt block to add a touch of sophistication and unique flavor to your platter.
Ingredients:
– 1 large salt block (preferably Himalayan pink or kosher)
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup wasabi mayonnaise (or store-bought)
– Sushi-grade fish of your choice (e.g. salmon, tuna, or eel), sliced into thin pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block by placing it in the oven at 200°F (90°C) for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1/4 cup of water.
3. Assemble the platter by arranging the avocado, cucumber, carrot, and pickled ginger on a large plate or board.
4. Place the cooked sushi rice on top of the vegetables, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Arrange the sliced fish on top of the rice in a pattern of your choice.
6. Drizzle wasabi mayonnaise over the platter to complete.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including salt block preheating)
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon on Salt Block
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the warmth of cinnamon, all infused with the natural goodness of a salt block. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for outdoor parties, BBQs, or even just a quick weeknight dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt block (about 1-2 inches thick)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple slices with the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
4. Place the pineapple slices on the salt block, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Salt Block Baked Flatbread
Transform your baking experience with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural flavors of salt and yeast. The result is a crispy, slightly chewy flatbread perfect for serving as a side or using as a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add the olive oil while mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top with a salt block (about 1/2 inch thick) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Duck Breast on Himalayan Salt Block
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of duck breast with the unique properties of a Himalayan salt block. The result is a perfectly cooked, crispy-skinned duck breast with a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp thyme leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Himalayan salt block
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the duck breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, and thyme leaves.
4. Season the duck breasts with salt and brush with the honey-thyme mixture.
5. Place the Himalayan salt block in the oven for 10 minutes to preheat.
6. Remove the salt block from the oven and place the duck breasts on it.
7. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salt Block Chocolate Fondue
Experience the unique combination of saltiness and sweetness with this innovative fondue recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large salt block (preferably Himalayan pink salt)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Assorted dipping items (fresh fruit, marshmallows, graham crackers, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block in a preheated oven at 200°F (90°C) for 10 minutes.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Remove the hot salt block from the oven and carefully place it on a heat-resistant surface.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture onto the salt block, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Allow the fondue to cool and set for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
7. Dip your favorite items into the rich, savory-sweet goodness and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon on Salt Block
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. This side dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual BBQ to a fancy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 1 large salt block (or Himalayan pink salt plate)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place asparagus on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, place the lemon wedges on the preheated salt block for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve grilled asparagus with a squeeze of lemon from the salt block and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salt Block Cured Cheese Platter
Elevate your cheese game with this simple yet impressive platter featuring salt block-cured cheese, paired with an assortment of crackers and garnishes. Perfect for a quick snack or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of soft-ripened cheese (such as Brie or Camembert)
– 1 salt block
– 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
– 1/4 cup dried apricots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Place the cheese on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Rub the salt block with a small amount of oil and place it on top of the cheese.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly softened and the salt has dissolved into the cheese.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
6. Assemble the platter by placing the cheese on a serving board, surrounded by toasted crackers, dried apricots, and sprigs of thyme. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seared Lamb Chops on Himalayan Salt Block
A flavorful and elegant dish that’s perfect for a special occasion, this recipe showcases the natural goodness of lamb paired with the unique seasoning properties of Himalayan salt.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt, to taste (Himalayan or regular)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Himalayan salt block in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, and paprika.
3. Season both sides of the lamb chops with salt and then brush them with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Place the lamb chops on the preheated Himalayan salt block and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total cooking time.
Salt Block Infused Olive Oil
This recipe combines the natural goodness of olive oil with the savory essence of salt blocks, creating a unique and aromatic infusion perfect for cooking or as a finishing touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2-3 salt blocks (preferably flaky sea salt or Himalayan pink salt)
– Optional: herbs or aromatics like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Place the salt block(s) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salt blocks, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. If using herbs or aromatics, place them on top of the salt blocks and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil.
5. Bake for 1-2 hours, or until the salt has dissolved into the oil and infused its flavor.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before straining the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms on Salt Block
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the mineral-rich goodness of a salt block, creating a truly unique and savory dish perfect for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt block (preferably Himalayan pink or flaky sea salt)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the salt block to high heat (around 450°F) for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of mushroom caps with the oil mixture.
4. Place mushrooms on the preheated salt block and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they release their natural juices and develop a nice char.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Salt Block Chilled Oysters
Elevate your oyster game with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the natural flavors of these briny delicacies.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, scrubbed and patted dry
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your salt block to room temperature.
2. Arrange the oysters on a bed of crushed ice in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch between each shell.
3. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the oysters, making sure they’re all coated.
4. Let the oysters sit for at least 30 minutes to allow them to chill and absorb the flavors from the salt.
5. Just before serving, squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the oysters (if using).
6. Serve chilled, with your choice of accompaniments such as cocktail sauce or mignonette.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is all about chilling and flavoring the oysters.
Seared Sea Bass on Himalayan Salt Block
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea bass with the unique mineral richness of a Himalayan salt block, creating a visually stunning and flavorful dish. The result is a perfectly cooked fish with a crispy crust and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 Himalayan salt block
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the sea bass fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil on the Himalayan salt block over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
4. Sear the sea bass fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Transfer the fish to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with lemon slices and chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 creative recipes that utilize the unique flavor-enhancing properties of Himalayan salt blocks! From savory dishes like seared scallops and grilled shrimp, to sweet treats like chocolate truffles and baked flatbread, this collection has something for everyone. Impress your guests with a charcuterie board or sushi platter, or treat yourself to a indulgent meal with seared filet mignon or duck breast. Whatever your taste buds desire, these Himalayan salt block recipes are sure to deliver.
