How to make homemade spice blends

As the holiday season approaches, I am on the constant lookout for handmade gift ideas for family and friends.

Homemade spice blends make great gifts. They beat store-bought spice blends in freshness and flavor. Unique spice blends inspire home cooks to try new recipes.

Dress up spice blends in 2-4 oz glass containers from your local hobby store before giving- no wrapping required.

Seasoned Salt

• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon celery salt

Creole Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon black pepper

BBQ Rub

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sea salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Lemon Pepper Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons coarse black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon peel
• 1 teaspoon chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon thyme

To use, marinade chicken or shrimp in the following mixture before grilling: 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, ¼ cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning.

Italian Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons basil
• 3 tablespoons oregano
• 3 tablespoons parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper