Pink salt is a mineral-rich seasoning salt, most commonly mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan (the “Himalayan” name refers to the nearby mountain range). Its natural iron oxide content gives it a rosy pink color and a flavor and crunch many cooks prefer to plain table salt.
If you’re looking for a flavorful way to switch up your seasoning, cooking with pink salt is a great place to start. This mineral-rich salt adds a delicious crunch and flavor to any dish. In this post, we’re sharing ten of our favorite pink salt recipes — from breakfast to dessert, plus a couple of bath salt recipes for when you want to use it outside the kitchen. Ready to get cooking? Shop our Himalayan Salt to get started.
What is Himalayan Pink Salt?
Himalayan pink salt is a type of rock salt mined from ancient sea beds, primarily at the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan. Like table salt, it’s mostly sodium chloride, but it’s much less processed and retains trace amounts of minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium — which is also what gives it its color.
Why is Himalayan Pink Salt Pink?
The color comes from trace amounts of iron oxide (the same compound responsible for rust) naturally present in the salt deposits. The more iron oxide present, the deeper the pink or reddish hue.
What are the nutritional benefits of Himalayan pink salt?
Himalayan pink salt does contain trace minerals that heavily refined table salt doesn’t — magnesium, potassium, calcium, and others. However, according to WebMD, those mineral amounts are “far too low in concentration to help with your nutrition” — you’d need to eat an unsafe amount of salt to get a meaningful dose of any mineral besides sodium.
It’s also a common misconception that pink salt is lower in sodium than table salt. By weight, the sodium content of Himalayan salt is nearly identical to table salt — a teaspoon of each contains roughly the same amount of sodium, according to Cleveland Clinic. Any perceived difference usually comes down to Himalayan salt’s larger, coarser crystals taking up more volume (and less mass) per teaspoon — not a meaningfully lower sodium content.
Where pink salt does stand out is flavor and texture: its bigger crystals dissolve more slowly, giving a more pronounced crunch and burst of saltiness, which is why so many cooks reach for it as a finishing salt.
Why should people switch to Himalayan pink salt?
Switching to Himalayan pink salt isn’t a health upgrade in any clinically meaningful sense — sodium is sodium regardless of source, and the trace minerals it carries aren’t present in nutritionally significant amounts. What it does offer is a less processed product, free of anti-caking agents, plus a distinct flavor, crystal texture, and pink color that many cooks and bakers prefer for finishing dishes.
It can be pricier than regular table salt, but for many people the flavor and texture are worth it. One thing worth knowing either way: table salt has one real advantage — it’s typically fortified with iodine, which Himalayan salt is not. If pink salt is your only salt, make sure you’re getting iodine from other sources like dairy, seafood, or eggs.
Is Himalayan pink salt sustainable?
Himalayan pink salt is hand-mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world, using much less industrial processing than most table salt goes through. It’s also naturally gluten-free and free of anti-caking additives, which makes it a straightforward choice for people avoiding processed ingredients.
Where to Buy Himalayan Pink Salt
You can find Himalayan pink salt at most health food stores, many grocery stores, and online. If you want a trusted, unprocessed source for the recipes below, Salts Worldwide’s Himalayan Salt is mined directly from the Khewra Salt Mine and sold with no additives, in the grinds and sizes you need.
Himalayan Pink Salt Recipes
You can cook a wide range of dishes with Himalayan pink salt, and it will add a delicious flavor to your food. Here are recipes to try:
Breakfast and Brunch Recipes using Himalayan Pink Salt
Who says you can only use salt on savory dishes? Himalayan pink salt makes a great addition to sweet recipes too. Here are a few of our favorite breakfast and brunch recipes that use it:
Himalayan Pink Salt Granola — crunchy, sweet, and salty, the perfect combination.
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Instructions: Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Add the oats and salt, and stir until all the oats are coated. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Let the granola cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Himalayan Pink Salt Pancakes — these fluffy pancakes are a great way to start your day.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Heat a griddle or pan over medium heat and grease lightly. Pour about ¼ cup batter per pancake and cook 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Himalayan Pink Salt French Toast — a sweet and salty way to start your day.
- 8 slices of bread
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Dip each bread slice in the mixture, coating both sides well. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the French toast about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Himalayan Pink Salt Waffles — fluffy, flavorful, and a great way to start your day.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Preheat your waffle iron and cook according to its instructions, about 4-5 minutes per waffle, until golden brown. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Himalayan Pink Salt Sweet Potato Hash — a simple, hearty breakfast or brunch option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups diced sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Instructions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potatoes and onion, and cook until both are soft and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and serve warm.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Himalayan Pink Salt — soft, fluffy, and full of flavor.
Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling:
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. For the filling, mix the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter in a medium bowl. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½-inch thick. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. Starting at the long edge, roll the dough into a tight spiral. Cut into 12 even rolls and place in a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly. Whisk together the icing ingredients until smooth, drizzle over the rolls, and serve.
Lunch Recipes
Lunch is a great time to use Himalayan pink salt. It adds flavor and a bit of crunch to your meal. Here are some recipes to try:
Himalayan Pink Salt and Pepper Tuna Salad — healthy, flavorful, and easy to make.
- ½ pound tuna steak, grilled or canned
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
- ½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
Instructions: In a bowl, mix together the tuna, celery, red onion, green bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Fold in the mayonnaise until everything is evenly coated. Serve right away, or store in the fridge for later.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Garlic Grilled Cheese — perfect for a quick and easy lunch.
- ½ loaf of bread, sliced
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions: Butter one side of each slice of bread. Mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and sprinkle over the buttered side of each slice. Place the slices buttered-side down in a frying pan over medium heat and grill until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Tomato Soup — healthy, delicious, and easy to make.
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ pound chopped tomatoes
- ½ cup vegetable broth
Instructions: Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, salt, and pepper, and cook until the onion is soft. Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Pink Salt Roasted Potatoes — roasted with herbs and spices for a delicious flavor.
- ½ pound small potatoes
- ¼ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the potatoes into small pieces, add to a bowl, and toss with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spread onto the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
There are many other delicious recipes you can make with Himalayan pink salt. Try experimenting with different flavors and spices to create a meal that’s perfect for you — the options are endless!
Dinner Recipes
Are you looking for a way to add some extra flavor to your dinner recipes? Try using Himalayan pink salt. Here are a few ways to use it for dinner:
Himalayan Pink Salt and Pepper Grilled Pork Chops: simple but delicious. Season your pork chops with Himalayan pink salt and black pepper, then grill until cooked through.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Garlic Roasted Potatoes: a great side dish for any protein. Roast potatoes with Himalayan pink salt, garlic, and olive oil.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Lemon Grilled Chicken: a flavorful chicken dish. Season your chicken with Himalayan pink salt and lemon juice, then grill until cooked through.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: not a fan of potatoes? Try roasting Brussels sprouts with Himalayan pink salt, garlic, and olive oil for a healthy, flavorful alternative.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Garlic Roasted Carrots: another great vegetable side dish that pairs well with grilled meat or fish. Roast carrots with Himalayan pink salt, garlic, and olive oil.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Pepper Grilled Steak: a simple, classic steak recipe. Season your steak with Himalayan pink salt and black pepper, then grill to your liking.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Garlic Roasted Lamb Chops: a special-occasion dish. Roast lamb chops with Himalayan pink salt, garlic, and olive oil.
Roasted Rosemary Garlic Potatoes: a great side dish for any meal. Roast potatoes with Himalayan pink salt, rosemary, and garlic.
Salmon with Pesto: a delicious salmon dish you can make in under 30 minutes. Season your salmon with Himalayan pink salt and black pepper, bake until cooked through, and serve with pesto.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to recipes that include Himalayan pink salt, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Salad Recipes
Himalayan pink salt is a great way to season your salads. Its light, delicate flavor pairs well with all sorts of salad ingredients. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Himalayan Pink Salt and Pepper Salad: combine equal parts Himalayan pink salt and black pepper in a bowl and toss with your favorite salad ingredients.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Balsamic Vinaigrette: combine equal parts balsamic vinegar and Himalayan pink salt in a jar, shake to combine, and toss with your favorite salad ingredients.
Himalayan Pink Salt Caesar Salad: whisk together your Caesar dressing ingredients, add Himalayan pink salt to taste, and toss with your favorite salad ingredients.
Himalayan Pink Salt and Lemon Vinaigrette: combine equal parts lemon juice and Himalayan pink salt in a jar, shake to combine, and toss with your favorite salad ingredients.
Himalayan Pink Salt Roasted Vegetables: preheat the oven to 375°F, toss vegetables of your choice with olive oil and Himalayan pink salt, and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender.
Dessert Recipes
Himalayan pink salt isn’t just for savory dishes — it works well in sweet treats too. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Himalayan pink salt caramel sauce: perfect for topping ice cream or pancakes, and simple to make with just a few ingredients.
Pink salt chocolate bark: a great way to enjoy a sweet and salty treat, easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Himalayan pink salt cookies: soft, chewy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Side Dish with Pink Himalayan Seasoning Salt Recipes
Pink Himalayan salt is a type of rock salt mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan. Geologists estimate the deposit is hundreds of millions of years old, and it contains a range of trace minerals — including iron, potassium, magnesium, and zinc — alongside sodium chloride.
Pink Himalayan salt has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a pink hue. It’s available in fine and coarse grinds and can be used as a table salt, seasoning salt, or finishing salt.
Here are a few more ways to use it in savory side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pink Himalayan Salt: toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and pink Himalayan salt, then roast in a hot oven until crispy.
- Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes with Pink Himalayan Salt: cut potatoes into small wedges, toss with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast in a hot oven until crispy.
- Grilled Zucchini with Pink Himalayan Salt: drizzle zucchini slices with olive oil and pink Himalayan salt, then grill over medium-high heat until tender and slightly charred.
- Spicy Roasted Chickpeas with Pink Himalayan Salt: toss chickpeas with olive oil, spices, and pink Himalayan salt, then roast in a hot oven until crispy.
- Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Pink Himalayan Salt: sauté cabbage in a bit of oil until softened, add a sweet and sour sauce, and season with pink Himalayan salt.
- Kale Chips with Pink Himalayan Salt: toss kale leaves with olive oil and pink Himalayan salt, then bake in a hot oven until crispy.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Slaw with Pink Himalayan Salt: toss shredded cabbage with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and pink Himalayan salt.
- Tomato and Mozzarella Salad with Pink Himalayan Salt: toss diced tomatoes with mozzarella cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette, then season with pink Himalayan salt.
- Quinoa Pilaf with Pink Himalayan Salt: sauté onion and garlic in oil until softened, add quinoa and stock, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and season with pink Himalayan salt.
Pink Himalayan Bath Salt Recipes and Salt Scrub Recipes
Himalayan pink salt can also be used to make simple bath salts and salt scrubs.
Bath Salt Recipe: add one cup of Himalayan pink salt to a warm bath and soak for at least 20 minutes for a relaxing, spa-like soak.
Salt Scrub Recipe: mix two cups of Himalayan pink salt with one cup of carrier oil (such as olive oil, grapeseed oil, or sweet almond oil). Massage the mixture into your skin using circular motions and rinse off after five to ten minutes.
Both of these are simple, relaxing self-care rituals — but it’s worth being clear-eyed about what they actually do. There’s no scientific evidence that a salt bath or scrub “detoxifies” the body or removes toxins; that job belongs to your liver and kidneys, which do it on their own. Enjoy a Himalayan salt bath or scrub for what it really offers: relaxation and gentle exfoliation.
Conclusion
Himalayan pink salt is a flavorful, less-processed way to season your food — even if some of the health claims around it get overstated online. These ten recipes are meant to help you get more use out of it in the kitchen (and, with the bath recipes above, outside of it too).
Ready to stock up? Shop Salts Worldwide’s Himalayan Salt and get cooking.
Looking for more salt for your kitchen or bath?
Fleur De Sel: A rare and expensive form of sea salt harvested in parts of France, known to be one of the highest-quality salts money can buy.
Pink Himalayan Salt: A favorite among chefs for cooking and finishing dishes, and equally at home in a relaxing bath soak.