We’ve all seen the classic margarita with the salted rim…or perhaps a bloody mary that has one. But, when it comes to mixing things with salt the sky is the limit with fancy salt rims for your cocktails or mocktails.
In this article, I wanted to put together a list of some common and not-so-common ways to deliciously decorate the rim of your beverages. Be the standout at your next get-together..have people asking, “what is that unusual salty crunch on my beverage?”
Whether you’re a seasoned part host or just looking for a way to “fancy it up” at your next get-together, there is something on this list for you. Check out this list of 15 ways to use salt to rim your glass!
Do Only Margaritas Use Salt To Rim Glasses?
Adding salt to the rim of your glass doesn’t have to be reserved for just margaritas. Many other delicious drinks can benefit from a unique, salty rim.
Nearly any mixed drink can use a salty rim to enhance flavor. From mojitos to daiquiris, most sugar-rimmed drinks can be enhanced with salt instead of sugar. For a sweeter and more creative twist, you can also try flavored salts like hibiscus or rosemary sea salts for your favorite drinks.
You don’t have to use salt just for cocktails. Salty rims can be used on iced tea and other mocktails as well. If you’re looking for a taste beyond the basic, try spicing it up with some chili-lime salt or another exotic flavor combination.
Here is a list of some fancy salt mixes that you can use to add a bit of flair to your favorite beverages. First the list with detailed explanations with how-to guides below, cheers!
- Margarita Salt Mix
- Bloody Mary Salt Mix
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Tajin
- Smoked Salt Mix
- Hawaiian Black Salt
- Classic Salt Rim
- Blackberry Sage Salt Rim
- Matcha Salt Rim
- Cajun Salt Mix
- Lemon Pepper Salt Mix
- Garlic Salt Mix
- Curry Salt Mix
- Mango Habanero Salt Mix
- Rosemary Salt Rim
1. Margarita Salt Mix
This is one of the classics. A margarita is almost not a margarita without a salted rim. Simply pour some coarse salt on a plate and lay the glass down so that the rim of the glass is facing up, then run a lime wedge along the rim to moisten it before dipping it into the salt.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder (such as cayenne pepper or ancho chili powder)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, lime juice, and chili powder until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks:
Margaritas are the go-to for this salt mix, yet it can also be used to line glasses for other tequila beverages such as a Paloma or even refreshing limeade. Moreover, due to its tangy flavor profile, this mixture pairs particularly well with margaritas made with jalapeno-infused tequila…adding an extra pop of zing!
2. Bloody Mary Salt Mix
Ahh, the bloody mary…a staple of brunches all over the United States. This mix takes the classic taste of the Bloody Mary and adds a bit of a kick to the salted rim.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons of celery salt
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, celery salt, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
If you’re looking to spruce up your drinks, this salt mix is the ideal accompaniment! While Bloody Mary’s are its traditional companion, they can also be used to rim glasses for other vodka-based cocktails like a Red Snapper or a Bloody Bull. Nonalcoholic drinkers need not fear…even tomato juice and V8 juice can benefit from a bit of extra flavor with this delectable blend!
3. Old Bay Seasoning
Old Bay is a well-known blend of spices that includes celery salt, pepper and other spices. This seasoning is widely used in the Chesapeake Bay region, particularly on seafood dishes.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
- Spread Old Bay seasoning on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lemon wedge and then dip it into the Old Bay seasoning, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Old Bay seasoning is usually thought of as a garnish for Bloody Marys and other similar cocktails, but it can also be used to add flavor and texture to the rim of beer glasses or even non-alcoholic drinks like lemonade or iced tea.
4. Tajin
Tajin is a Mexican condiment made with chili peppers, lime, and salt. It is widely used in Mexican cuisine as a seasoning for fruits and vegetables, but it can also be used to rim glasses for cocktails or other drinks.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons of Tajin seasoning
Instructions
- Spread Tajin seasoning on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the Tajin seasoning, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Tajin is the perfect garnish to give your cocktails a unique, tantalizing flavor. From Margaritas and tequila-based drinks to beer and even non-alcoholic beverages like limeade or lemonade…Tajin will add an extra zing! And if you’re looking for an interesting way to spice up fruit dishes, look no further than this special seasoning blend; it’s especially delicious on watermelon slices or mango chunks.
5. Smoked Salt Mix
Smoked salt brings a subtle smokiness and a hint of sweetness to any dish. Its flavor pairs particularly well with tequila-based cocktails such as margaritas, but it can also be used on other drinks. You can purchase smoked salt at most specialty grocery stores….or you can try making it yourself, check out this article!
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons smoked sea salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked salt and chipotle powder or cumin until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the smoked salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Creating a smoky flavor in cocktails has never been easier with the perfect mix of smoked salt. Whether you’re making a Mezcal Margarita or an Old Fashioned, this blend is sure to bring that delicious smokey taste and aroma. Don’t limit yourself to just alcoholic drinks…enhance your non-alcoholic beverages such as lemonade by adding some smoked salt for rimming your glasses!
6. Hawaiian Black Salt
For a unique culinary experience, try Hawaiian black salt! Made by combining salt with activated charcoal, this distinctively dark-hued seasoning will add an interesting depth of flavor to any dish.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 1 tablespoon of Hawaiian black sea salt
Instructions:
- Spread the Hawaiian black salt on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the black salt, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Hawaiian black salt is the perfect way to enhance your favorite tequila-based cocktails, like Margaritas and Tequila Sunrises. And it’s not just for alcoholic drinks…go ahead and rim glasses of beer or non-alcoholic beverages like a limeade with this unique seasoning! For a truly creative spin on tropical flavors, pair Hawaiian black salt with pineapple and coconut in your cocktails.
7. Classic Salt Rim
Sometimes basic is beautiful! Salt is always a classic rim for your favorite margarita or other cocktails, and it’s easy to do.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
Instructions
- Spread coarse salt on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the salt, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Whether you’re an avid mixologist or occasional home bartender, a classic salt rim is essential for creating the perfect concoction. Perfectly complementing tequila-based cocktails like Margaritas and Tequila Sunrises as well as beers and non-alcoholic drinks such as limeades…this simple yet versatile addition has become a must-have in any bar setting!
8. Matcha Salt Rim
Those familiar with matcha tea, know it’s delicious and full of health benefits. But did you know that you can use matcha as a rim for your drinks?!
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and matcha powder until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the matcha salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Matcha Salt Rim is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate and deliciously enhance a wide variety of cocktails, beverages, and spirits. Whether you’re serving up green tea liqueur or matcha-infused spirits for your guests, Matcha Salt Rim takes these classic drinks to the next level in flavor. For those looking for an alcohol-free option, rimming glasses with the flavorful blend will add a delightful touch to iced green teas.
9. Cajun Salt Mix
There’s an old expression in Southern kitchens, “it’s not burned…it’s CAJUN!” Spice up your next cocktail with this tantalizing and flavorful mix.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt (such as kosher salt)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and cajun spice mix until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the Cajun salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
To add a spicy kick to any beverage, try rimming the glass with Cajun salt mix! Whether it’s in your favorite cocktail that uses jalapeño or hot sauce, beer, or even non-alcoholic drinks like Bloody Marys…this seasoning is sure to make any drink more flavorful and fun. Don’t miss out on adding some extra flavor and spice to all of your beverages!
10. Lemon Pepper Salt Mix
Combining a little saltiness with the sweet, tartness of lemon and the fragrant, earthy flavor of pepper, this rim is perfect for those looking to add a little zing to their drinks.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, lemon zest, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the lemon-pepper salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Elevate your favorite drinks with a lemon pepper salt mix! From the classic Lemon Drop martini to a refreshing tall glass of beer, this incredible combination will provide an unforgettable twist. It’s also perfect for adding zing to creative non-alcoholic concoctions such as Raspberry Mint Iced Tea or even Sparkling Ginger Limeade.
11. Garlic Salt Mix
This one may sound a bit odd, but combined with the right drink, garlic salt can add a delicious and unique flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and garlic powder until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the garlic salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Transform your drinks into something special with a garlic salt mix! Rim glasses for cocktails such as Bloody Marys or Bloody Bulls create a savory, unique flavor. You can also use it on beer, tomato juice, and other non-alcoholic concoctions. Garlic salt is an excellent addition to popcorn or roasted vegetables for a delightful twist of taste.
12. Curry Salt Mix
For the more adventurous delicatessens out there, this one’s for you. Curry salt is a unique blend that adds a hint of spice to your drinks.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of curry powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and curry powder until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the curry salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Make your cocktails stand out with a rim of Curry Salt Mix! It adds an extra savory flavor when used on drinks like Bloody Mary’s and Bloody Bulls, but can also be added to beer or even non-alcoholic beverages such as tomato juice. Plus, it’s the perfect seasoning for popcorn and roasted veggies…making your snack game more flavorful than ever before!
13. Mango Habanero Salt Mix
If you want your drinks to be Fuego, this is the mix for you. The sweet, tropical flavor of mango and the spicy kick of habanero make this an interesting and unique rimming option.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of dried mango powder
- 1 teaspoon of habanero powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, dried mango powder, and habanero powder until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the mango habanero salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Transform your beverages with a delectable blend of mango habanero salt mix! Whether you fancy sipping on a Mai Tai or an invigorating Pina Colada, this seasoning will add both sweetness and heat to make it all the more enjoyable. Even beer and non-alcoholic drinks like mango juice are ideal for rimming glasses with this delightful mix. Get ready to experience the flavor revolution!
14. Rosemary Salt Rim
For an herbal, aromatic flavor, try the rosemary salt rim. This is a unique combination that will elevate your drinks to the next level.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and rosemary until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lemon wedge and then dip it into the rosemary salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Give your drinks an aromatic and woodsy twist by using rosemary salt to rim glasses…perfect for gin-based cocktails such as a Gin and Tonic or Martini, but also works well with beer or non-alcoholic beverages like lemonade. Try it today and you’ll be amazed at the flavor it adds!
15. Blackberry Sage Salt Rim
Not going to lie…I haven’t tried all of these and this one is the most intriguing to me! The sweet-tart taste of blackberries and the earthy flavor of sage make this a delicious, unique blend to rim your glasses.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup of coarse salt
- 2 tablespoons of blackberry preserves
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage leaves
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, blackberry preserves, and dried sage leaves until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on a plate or shallow dish.
- Rub the rim of a glass with a lemon wedge and then dip it into the blackberry sage salt mixture, making sure to coat the rim evenly.
Recommended Drinks
Add a zesty, herbal taste to your drinks with a blackberry sage salt rim! Whether you’re mixing up a Gin Fizz or an alcohol-free lemonade glass, this delicious combination of flavors will make any drink more enjoyable. It’s the perfect way to give your cocktails and beers an exquisite fruity flavor…try it for yourself today!
Final Thoughts
Rimming your glasses with the perfect combination of flavors is an easy way to take your drinks from ordinary to extraordinary. With the wide array of options available, you have plenty of delicious combinations to choose from.
Get creative and play around with different ingredients until you find a mix that works best for you! And don’t forget to enjoy the fruits of your labor by sipping away on your unique creations.
If it’s edible and can be mixed with salt and adhered to the rim of a cocktail glass, give it a try…you may come up with an even more crazy and more delicious mix than what I have above. Happy Mixing!