This seasoning mix will be free of additives of any kind (provided you know that the herbs are organically grown – preferably from your own garden !) and a healthy and tasty alternative to iodised salt. A shaker full of a wonderful herb blend salt and a copy of the recipe would be a good gift too.

For Herb Salt you will need:

8 tablespoons each of chopped fresh herbs as follows: rosemary, chives, thyme, oregano or marjoram, and, if you like, basil, garlic and dill or an extra tablespoon of marjoram and chives.

160g of sea salt

Clean shaker jars or containers (you can use small kilner type jars)

Mortar and pestle or preferably, blender

Baking sheet

To make the mixture collect the herbs but do not wash them unless it is really necessary because moisture will cause the salt mixture to clump. Mix the fresh, chopped herbs with the sea salt. When thoroughly mixed, grind the herbs and salt together in a blender or mortar and pestle. After blending spread the mixture on the baking sheet and put in a 90C or 200F oven for around an hour or until it is dry (keep turning during the drying period). When cool pour into a glass jar and seal. You can also add some paprika to add colour.