The Core Ingredients in Dash's Everything But The Salt
While the name "everything but the salt" suggests a complex blend, the formula for this particular Dash seasoning is surprisingly straightforward. It relies on a classic combination of pantry staples to achieve its distinct savory and nutty flavor profile, mimicking the beloved everything bagel topping.
Dried Garlic
Dried garlic is a fundamental component, providing a robust, pungent flavor that serves as a cornerstone of the blend. Unlike fresh garlic, the dried version offers a concentrated, shelf-stable flavor that distributes evenly throughout the seasoning. This ingredient is responsible for much of the savory, umami-rich character.
Dried Onion
Adding another layer of savory depth, dried onion complements the garlic perfectly. It provides a sweet, slightly sharp flavor that is a hallmark of many seasoning blends. The dehydrated form ensures consistency and a longer shelf life, contributing to the seasoning's all-purpose versatility.
Sesame Seeds
Both white and black sesame seeds are traditionally included in everything bagel seasoning, and they are a key part of this blend as well. Sesame seeds add a nutty, earthy flavor and a pleasing textural crunch. They are also a good source of healthy fats and minerals.
Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds contribute another textural element and a mild, nutty aroma. Their subtle flavor enhances the overall complexity of the blend without overpowering the other ingredients. The small, crunchy seeds are essential for achieving the classic everything bagel feel.
Making Your Own Everything But The Salt Seasoning
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach or wish to control the quality of their ingredients, a homemade version of this seasoning is easy to create. A DIY blend offers the flexibility to adjust ratios to your taste. For a basic recipe, you will need:
- 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Simply combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Store the blend in an airtight container for future use. Feel free to adjust the proportions to make it more garlicky, oniony, or nutty.
Versatile Uses for the Salt-Free Blend
The simplicity of Dash's Everything But The Salt makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Its applications extend far beyond bagels and avocado toast. Consider these creative uses:
- Vegetable Topping: Sprinkle over roasted broccoli, asparagus, or cauliflower for an extra pop of flavor.
- Protein Rub: Use as a dry rub for chicken, fish, or pork before grilling or roasting.
- Soup and Salad Garnish: Add a sprinkle to soups or salads for texture and a savory note. It works great in cream cheese dips, too.
- Popcorn Seasoning: Toss with a little oil on freshly popped popcorn for a savory snack.
- Homemade Bread: Mix into bread dough or sprinkle on top before baking for a savory crust.
Comparison: Dash Everything But The Salt vs. Dash Original Blend
It is important to distinguish between the various Dash products, as the ingredients can differ significantly. While Everything But The Salt focuses on a simple, everything bagel-inspired profile, the Original Blend is a much more complex mix of herbs and spices.
| Feature | Dash Everything But The Salt | Dash Original Blend |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Dried Garlic, Dried Onion, Sesame Seeds, Poppy Seeds | Onion, Garlic, Spices (Black Pepper, Parsley, Basil, Celery Seed, etc.), Carrot, Orange Peel, Tomato, Lemon Juice Powder |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, nutty, and crunchy, like an everything bagel | Complex, savory, and herbaceous, with a peppery, citrusy finish |
| Texture | Distinct crunch from seeds and dehydrated vegetables | Fine, powdery grind for uniform distribution |
| Best For | Avocado toast, bagels, vegetables, dips, popcorn | Chicken, burgers, salads, soups, omelettes |
This comparison highlights the importance of choosing the correct Dash product for your desired flavor outcome. The Everything But The Salt blend is a specific flavor experience, not an all-purpose seasoning like the Original Blend.
From Mrs. Dash to Dash: A Rebranding
In recent years, the company behind Mrs. Dash underwent a rebranding, officially changing the name to Dash. This was done to modernize the brand and simplify its identity, but the formula for the beloved Everything But The Salt seasoning remained the same. Consumers can find the same product and ingredients under the updated Dash branding.
Conclusion
What are the ingredients in Mrs Dash everything but the salt? The answer is a simple, yet potent combination of dried garlic, dried onion, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds. This four-ingredient blend provides a rich, savory flavor and a satisfying texture without adding any sodium, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you are using it on avocado toast, as a rub for proteins, or creating a DIY version, this versatile seasoning proves that bold flavor does not require salt. For more information on the brand's products, visit the official Dash website.