Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix Recipe
If you love rich, savory flavors but want to keep things heart-healthy, my Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix is about to become your new go-to kitchen essential! This homemade blend whips together in just five minutes, bringing you all the depth and zing of classic onion soup mix without that heavy dose of sodium. Trust me, it’s perfect for so much more than soup: think dips, rubs, roasted veggies, and weeknight casseroles that need a little extra magic. The best part? You likely have everything you need in your pantry already, and you have full control over exactly what goes into your food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in just how unfussy but flavorful the ingredients are. Each one not only builds on that nostalgic onion soup taste, but also adds its own flair — from warm color to punchy depth or even a subtle herbal finish.
- Dried minced onion: The backbone of our mix, these tiny flakes bring texture and robust onion flavor to every spoonful.
- Onion powder: For an extra punch, this amplifies the oniony goodness and blends seamlessly in any recipe.
- Garlic powder: Every savory blend benefits from just a whisper of garlic; it rounds out the flavor and lifts the aromatics.
- Dried parsley: Adds color and a gentle herbal lift, keeping the mix bright and fresh.
- Celery seed: Offers a subtle earthiness that balances the savory notes and provides a hint of complexity.
- Paprika: Besides its warm, rusty hue, paprika lends just a touch of gentle heat and smoky sweetness.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a shadow of background heat that keeps the seasoning lively.
- Turmeric (optional): For a pretty golden tint—feel free to include or skip depending on your color preference.
- Cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken soups and dips naturally, without resorting to extra sodium-heavy mixes.
How to Make Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, lay out all your spices and measuring spoons. There’s something extra satisfying about seeing a row of little jars ready to come together! Having everything measured and ready to go makes the process practically effortless.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
Grab a small bowl or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add in the dried minced onion, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, celery seed, paprika, black pepper, turmeric (if you like that bit of color), and cornstarch (if you want a thickener). Stir with a spoon or put the lid on and shake vigorously until everything is beautifully blended.
Step 3: Store Properly
Transfer your finished Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix to an airtight jar or container. Label it (trust me, future-you will thank you!), then tuck it into your pantry or spice drawer. This mix keeps its punchy flavor and aroma for up to six months if stored somewhere cool and dry.
Step 4: Use as Needed
Whenever a recipe calls for a packet of onion soup mix, simply reach for two tablespoons of your homemade blend. You can sprinkle it into meatloaf, whisk it into dips, or toss with potatoes and olive oil before roasting. If you feel it needs a pinch of salt, you can add it to your own taste—no sneaky sodium surprises here.
How to Serve Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix
Garnishes
Once your dish is ready, don’t underestimate the power of a great garnish! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives really brightens up onion-forward recipes. For soups or dips, a little dollop of low-fat sour cream or a drizzle of good olive oil brings a restaurant-style finish.
Side Dishes
If you’re using this mix in soups or casseroles, classic sides like crusty whole grain bread, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad make the meal feel complete. For snacking, try pairing an onion dip made from this mix with veggie sticks or whole-wheat crackers.
Creative Ways to Present
The uses for Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix go far beyond the soup bowl! Use it as a dry rub for chicken or beef, blend into Greek yogurt for a super quick party dip, or sprinkle over popcorn for a savory snack. Package the mix in a cute jar, tie a ribbon around it, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift for friends (or for the food nerd in your life!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your mix will last up to six months tucked away in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place. Just make sure to scoop with a clean, dry spoon every time, so moisture doesn’t sneak in and ruin your hard work.
Freezing
You can freeze the Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix in a freezer-safe bag if you want extra long-term freshness, although it keeps beautifully in the pantry as well. If freezing, allow the mix to come to room temperature before using so the spices stay fluffy and don’t clump.
Reheating
Since this is a dry mix, reheating isn’t necessary until you actually cook with it. But when using it in hot recipes like soups or casseroles, simply add directly according to your usual method—no preheating required!
FAQs
Can I add salt to the Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix if I want?
Absolutely! If you need a little extra punch, add your preferred amount of salt or a salt substitute. The beauty of homemade is full control over the flavor and sodium content.
Is this mix gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, every single ingredient is naturally gluten-free and plant-based, so it fits a wide range of dietary needs without any modifications. Just double-check your individual spice labels for any unlikely cross-contamination.
How much of this mix equals one store-bought packet?
Two tablespoons of the Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix equals about one commercial packet. Use it just like you would in any recipe that calls for the boxed stuff!
What are some creative recipes to use this in?
This mix is brilliant in everything from slow cooker roasts to veggie dips, homemade chips, or even mixed into Greek yogurt as a tangy spread. Try sprinkling it onto sautéed mushrooms or folding it into a burger patty for a burst of savory flavor.
Can I customize the spices in this blend?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or marjoram, or toss in a pinch of cayenne if you love things spicy. The Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix is endlessly adaptable to match your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix brings the same spark of excitement to your kitchen as it does to mine. It’s the little homemade touches like this that can instantly elevate everyday recipes and make healthy eating genuinely delicious. Give it a try, share it with family, and watch your meals come alive with flavor!
Print
Low-Sodium Onion Soup Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About ½ cup (equivalent to 4 packets) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the flavor of a classic onion soup mix without the excess sodium with this easy-to-make low-sodium onion soup mix recipe. Customize the blend to suit your taste preferences and use it in various dishes for a healthier seasoning option.
Ingredients
Dried Minced Onion Mix:
- ¼ cup dried minced onion
Spice Blend:
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine dried minced onion, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, celery seed, paprika, black pepper, turmeric (if using), and cornstarch (if using). Stir or shake well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Store: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- To Use: Use 2 tablespoons of the mix in recipes calling for dry onion soup mix. Adjust salt separately if needed based on dietary preferences.
Notes
- This blend is perfect for seasoning meats, soups, dips, or roasted vegetables without the excess sodium found in commercial soup mixes.
- You can customize the herbs or add salt substitutes if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
