Many different spices can be used for flavor rather than seasoning salt.
Seasoned salt is a blend of salt, spices, herbs and sometimes artificial flavorings, monosodium glutamate or other preservatives. The exact ingredients of commercial seasoned salt products vary depending on the manufacturer---many chefs choose to make their own blends---but common ingredients are salt, sugar, paprika, celery seed, onion powder and garlic powder.
This savoury, salty mix is popular for spicing up french fries, baked potatoes, popcorn, burgers and other foods.
Make Your Own
If you ran out of seasoned salt or just wish to make your own so you can avoid artificial flavors or preservatives, it's simple to do. Combine 1 cup of salt, 2 1/4 teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons dry mustard, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Turmeric and celery seed can be added as well, to taste. Store for up to six months in an airtight container.
Lemon Herb Seasoning Salt
For those cutting back on salt or avoiding it altogether, try this fresh citrus take on seasoned salt, from the American Heart Association Low-Salt Cookbook: combine 4 1/2 tablespoon dried basil, 3 1/4 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 1/2tablespoon finely ground black pepper, 1 1/2 tablespoon dried onion flakes, 1 1/2 tablespoon whole celery seed, 1 1/4 tablespoon powdered basil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind. This mixture can also be stored for up to six months in an airtight container.
Commercial alternatives
If you're looking for an easy, salt-free alternative you can pick up at the grocery store, try Mrs. Dash Seasonings, Parsley Patch Seasonings or Schilling Salt Free Seasonings.
Tags: celery seed, garlic powder, tablespoon dried, airtight container, dried oregano