Salt’s zesty cousin Salt’s zesty cousin

Tajín (sounds like tuh·heen). Look first for Tajín in the grocery store’s international aisle. It’ll likely be placed close to other Mexican ingredients, as it originated in Mexico. No luck? Check the spices and seasonings aisle next.

If you know, you know. This Mexican spice blend is made up of chili powder, lime and sea salt. And if that combo isn’t perfect for spring and summer, we don’t know what is. In Mexico, locals love to sprinkle it over fresh fruits and vegetables. It adds a wonderfully fresh, citrusy and piquant taste (a ZING if you will) to any recipe.

It adds a punch to guacamole or grilled corn; it can be part of a marinade on poultry, meats and fish; and can be used as a tabletop condiment – think salt’s zesty cousin. Or, add Tajín to elevate your favorite cocktails and mocktails!

Here are some great ways to take advantage of Tajín if you’re trying it out for the first time or already have it on hand.

SPICY (OR NOT) MANGO MARGARITA WITH TAJÍN RIMMER

Ingredients

- 1 tablespoon Tajín seasoning

- Generous pour of tequila (preferably Reposado)

- Handful of frozen mango cubes, frozen (still have some of the abundance from last year’s haul?)

- Splash of coconut water

- Fresh lime juice (1-2 squeezed)

- 3 ounces Grand Marnier or Cointreau (or other orange liqueur)

- 3 tablespoons simple syrup or agave

- Lime, for garnish

Directions

- Slice half a lime into 2 thin rounds for garnish and cut an additional piece for the rim of the glasses.

- Shake Tajin, or chili lime salt, into a shallow dish or small plate. Rub a cut lime wedge around the rim of 2 glasses then turn the glasses upside down and place into the Tajin to coat the rim. Let dry while preparing mango margaritas.

- Add all remaining ingredients, except ice, to a blender.

- Puree until smooth.

- Pour into glasses and add lime wedge on the rim. If desired add the ice for margaritas on the rocks, and serve.

Side note: Want to make these spicy mango margaritas even spicier? Add a couple slices of fresh jalapeño and enjoy!

Watermelon Taj N Skewers

Ingredients

- 2-3 cups fresh watermelon, cut into 2-inch cubes

- 1/2 lime, juice and zest

- 1 tablespoon Tajín

- 1/3 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta if you prefer)

- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped pinch of flaky salt (love using maldon)

Directions

- Skewer 5-6 pieces of watermelon and season with lime juice and Tajín.

- Top the skewers with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped mint, and a pinch of flaky salt.