There are a couple of things that make a cocktail truly memorable.

The taste is the main one, but how it looks comes in a strong second. And nothing can make a Margarita taste better or visually stand out more than adding a little spicy citrus salt.

Quick, easy, and inexpensive to make at home, these cocktail salts will not only last for months (depending on how many cocktails you are making) but the citrus will continue to infuse the salt with flavour over time.

And if you have any salt left after rimming your margarita glasses, it can also be used as a garnish on salads or as a finishing salt on grilled meat.

Spicy Citrus Cocktail Salt

Makes about 1 cup

Ingredients

1 cup kosher salt

Fresh zest of 2 whole large lemons

Fresh zest of 1 lime

Fresh zest of 1 whole navel orange

Fresh zest of a ruby grapefruit

1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon paprika (used smoked Spanish paprika for a smoky twist!)

Directions

Combine salt and citrus zest in a medium bowl and use your hands to massage and rub the zest into the salt, releasing the oils. The salt will start to turn a bit orange and will feel like wet sand. Add the red pepper flakes and paprika, and stir well to distribute evenly. Transfer to an air-tight container and store at room temperature.