This garlic paprika seasoning is a quick and easy blend that enhances the flavor of your dishes with minimal effort. The combination of garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil creates a well-rounded seasoning that adds depth and a mild kick to your meals. Perfect for roasting vegetables, seasoning meats, or sprinkling on fries, this seasoning will quickly become a pantry staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The simplicity of this garlic paprika seasoning makes it a go-to for adding rich flavor to any meal without overwhelming the natural taste of your ingredients. The garlic powder provides savory depth, the paprika adds a subtle smokiness, and the olive oil helps to bind everything together and coat your food evenly. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or looking for an easy way to enhance your favorite dishes, this seasoning is incredibly versatile.

Simple Garlic Paprika Seasoning

Ingredients

1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
Add Olive Oil: Drizzle in the olive oil and stir until the mixture forms a paste-like consistency. You can adjust the amount of oil depending on how much of a paste you want.
Use as a Seasoning: Use the seasoning paste to coat your vegetables, meats, or any dish that needs a savory kick. It’s great for roasting potatoes, chicken, or even tossing with popcorn.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes enough seasoning to coat about 4 servings of vegetables or meat.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: Varies depending on the dish you’re preparing (typically 20-40 minutes for roasting vegetables or meat).
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Smoked Paprika: For a deeper smoky flavor, you can substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika.
Add Herbs: Add dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra herbal notes that complement the garlic and paprika.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover seasoning paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to bring the paste back to a spreadable consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this seasoning without olive oil?

Yes, you can make a dry version of this seasoning by simply mixing the salt, garlic powder, and paprika together. The olive oil is optional but helps the seasoning adhere better to foods when roasting.

What dishes can I use this seasoning for?

This seasoning is versatile and can be used for roasted vegetables, grilled meats, potatoes, or even sprinkled over popcorn for a savory snack.

Can I store this seasoning for a longer time?

If you make a dry version of the seasoning (without olive oil), it can be stored in an airtight container for several months in a cool, dark place.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use fresh garlic, but it would need to be minced finely. Garlic powder gives a more even and less intense flavor, making it perfect for this seasoning.

Can I make this seasoning spicy?

Yes! Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to give it some heat.

Is this seasoning good for vegan dishes?

Yes, this garlic paprika seasoning is plant-based and works well with vegan dishes like roasted veggies, tofu, or chickpeas.

Can I make a larger batch of this seasoning?

Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients to make a larger batch. Store it in a sealed jar to use as needed.

How can I make this seasoning more complex?

To add more layers of flavor, you can incorporate spices like cumin, onion powder, or a splash of lemon zest for brightness.

Can I use this seasoning for grilling?

Yes! This seasoning works great for grilling meats, vegetables, and even tofu. Just coat the food evenly with the seasoning paste before grilling.

What else can I use this seasoning paste for?

It also makes an excellent marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables before cooking. You can even use it as a topping for baked potatoes or scrambled eggs.

Conclusion

This simple garlic paprika seasoning is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance the flavor of their dishes without a lot of effort. With just a few pantry staples, you can elevate everything from roasted vegetables to meats and snacks. Its versatility and ease of use make it a go-to option for quick meals that don’t compromise on taste.