- For the pastry, mix the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Rub in the butter cubes with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Drizzle over the vinegar and water then use your fingertips to gently toss and distribute the liquid. Use the palm of your hand to bring everything together until it forms a shaggy dough.
- Tip onto a work surface, pat and cup the dough into a disc. Wrap in parchment paper and chill in the fridge for at least an hour as you get on with the filling.
- Preheat the oven to 200C.
- Spread the squash, onions and carrots out on your largest roasting tray. You don’t want the vegetables to be overcrowded otherwise they’ll steam rather than brown, so use two trays if needed. Drizzle with olive oil and season with Maldon Sea Salt and black pepper. Roast for 25 minutes until lightly golden and beginning to caramelise. Leave to cool.
- Mix the crème fraiche, cheddar, Dijon mustard and herbs.
- Roll the pastry out to the thickness of a pound coin, about 30cm in diameter, and transfer to a parchment lined baking tray. Spread the crème fraiche mixture onto the pastry, leaving a 2-inch border. Top the crème fraiche mixture with the cooled roasted vegetables. Fold the pastry border up and over the filling, slightly overlapping the pastry at regular intervals. Brush the pastry with a beaten egg, then bake for 45-50 minutes, rotating the tray after 30 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- Leave to settle for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Over an hour
This isn’t just a brownie. It’s a love letter to chocolate.
There are brownies – and then there are Caitlin Carrick-Varty brownies…Known to her loyal followers as @cake.onmyface, Caitlin doesn’t just bake; she creates flavour sensations. Her Chocolate Brownies with Maldon Sea Salt are a masterclass in contrasts: they look like the picture of classic fudgy indulgence, they smell like pure cocoa bliss, yet the moment they touch your tongue, they melt in your mouth – like a decadent chocolate mousse.
Making them is as delicious as eating them: silky pools of melted chocolate folding into sugar, eggs and butter in slow, glossy swirls; batter pouring into the tin; a final, confident sprinkling of Maldon Sea Salt flakes over the top. The sea salt flakes strikes first – bright and sharp against the rich bitterness – before melting into a sweetness that lingers. Caitlin likes hers dark, leaning into that bittersweet edge, but if your heart beats for milder chocolate, you can swap 80g of the dark chocolate for milk. Whatever you do, don’t skip the Maldon Sea Salt flakes. It’s the soul of this brownie.
How to make Chocolate Brownies with Maldon Sea Salt

- Grease and line a 19cm / 7.5-inch square tin. Preheat the oven to 180/160 fan.
- Roughly chop the extra 20g dark chocolate, if you are using, then set aside.
- Chop the (180g) chocolate and butter roughly into chunks, then place in a large glass or metal bowl. Fill a small saucepan with a little water. Set the bowl of chocolate over the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not come into direct contact with the water when it rests over the pan. Heat the pan on low/medium, stirring the chocolate mixture occasionally, to help it melt.
- Meanwhile, whisk the sugar, eggs, Maldon Sea Salt flakes, and vanilla in a large bowl. When the egg mixture is a bit frothy and lighter in colour, pour in the melted chocolate and butter – whisk just until you feel the glossy mixture become thicker.
- Now sift the flour and cocoa powder into the eggs and chocolate. Whisk until you feel the batter become thicker again, then immediately pour the batter into the prepared tin. Top with the reserved chopped chocolate and a generous pinch of Maldon Sea Salt flakes. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top of the brownies are set but there is a wobble underneath.
- Allow to cool in the fridge before slicing. If you can wait, these brownies do well left in the fridge covered tightly with clingfilm overnight.
Recipe by Lacey Ostermann
A Bold, Citrusy Twist!
Lacey Ostermann brings the heat and zest to the breadboard with her unique Spicy Margarita Focaccia – a playful, flavour-packed recipe inspired by the classic cocktail. Infused with lime zest, a hint of orange and finished with Maldon Chilli Sea Salt flakes, this focaccia balances brightness with a gentle, smoky kick. It’s the kind of unexpected twist that turns a humble bake into a bold centrepiece, perfect for summer gathering, tapas spreads, or anyone craving a little spice with their slice!
Here Is How to Make Spicy Margarita Focaccia
Mix:
- Whisk together warm water, olive oil, honey (or sugar) and yeast. Every bread flour absorbs a different amount of water, so start with 390ml water and reserve the rest for later. Stir in bread flour and salt until well combined.
- Add in remaining water gradually to achieve a dough consistency similar to that shown in the video.
- Cover and rest at room temperature for 15minutes While the dough is resting, place the sugar and lime zest into a small bowl and rub them together using your fingers until well combined. Dice two jalapeños or chillies very finely.
Stretch & Fold and First Proof:
- Scatter half of the lime sugar and half of the diced jalapeños over the dough and then stretch & fold to incorporate them. First, wet your hand (so the dough doesn’t stick) and then grab the dough at the 12 o’clock position in the bowl.
- Pull the dough upwards and then fold it down to the 6 o’clock position. Repeat this motion about 8-10 times around the bowl. The dough should tighten up a bit after performing the stretch & folds.
- Cover and rest at room temp for 15minutes.Scatter the second half of the lime sugar and diced jalapeños over the dough and repeat the series of stretch & folds once more.
- Cover and proof at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours or until the dough has nearly doubled in size.
Transfer to Tray and Second Proof:
- Prepare a metal baking tray (see dimensions above in equipment list) with non-stick parchment paper and 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil or another neutral oil of your choosing. I put a tiny bit of oil underneath the paper so it stays in place on the tray.
- Tip the dough into the prepared tray. Rub a little oil from the tray onto your hands and fold one side of the dough towards the middle. Repeat with the other side, folding it over the top as if you are folding a piece of paper into thirds (it will look like a large burrito).
- Rotate the dough so its long side aligns with the long side of the tray, then flip it over so the seams from the folding are at the bottom and the top is smooth
- Cover the dough with a piece of oiled parchment paper and leave it to proof at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours.
Dimple & Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 215C or 420F and move the baking rack to the lowest position.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon coconut oil over the top of the focaccia dough and then dimple it into the dough.
- Bake the focaccia for 18-22 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
Prepare the Margarita Syrup:
- While the focaccia is baking, make the margarita syrup by combining the sugar, tequila and lime juice in a small saucepan.
- Simmer over a medium heat and stir until all the sugar granules have dissolved. Remove from the heat and set aside.
- When the focaccia is out of the oven, transfer it to a wire cooling rack and place the rack on top of a larger tray to catch any syrup and glaze drizzles that may drip down.
- Poke the focaccia all over with a chopstick or skewer and then brush the margarita syrup over the bread using a pastry brush, allowing it to fully soak into the dimples and holes before adding more.
Prepare the Lime Glaze:

- Allow the focaccia to cool for about 15 minutes. While it’s cooling, mix together the powdered sugar, lime zest and lime juice for the glaze. Add in the lime juice gradually until the glaze is drizzling consistency (you can add more lime juice if needed).
- Drizzle the glaze over the top of the focaccia and then use a pastry brush to brush it evenly over the top and sides of the bread.
- Garnish the focaccia as you would a spicy margarita…with fresh Jalapeño rings and a good sprinkle of Maldon Chilli Sea Salt. Be sure to add these on before the glaze hardens so they will stick in place!
- Place the focaccia on a cooling rack for about 20 minutes or until the glaze has hardened up and then cut in and enjoy!
A Summer Staple!

Lacey Ostermann has a way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable experiences – and her Garlic Sea Salt and Rosemary Focaccia Sandwich Rolls are no exception. Infused with the deep, aromatic flavour of Maldon Garlic Sea Salt and fresh rosemary, these golden rolls are baked to perfection: crisp on the outside, pillowy within. Ideal for summer, they’re the perfect vessel for seasonal favourites like a caprese sandwich layered with pesto, peppery rocket, and juicy tomato slices. Whether for a picnic, lunch al fresco, or casual entertaining, these rolls are the ultimate upgrade to your summer sandwich game.
Mix
- Whisk together warm water, olive oil, honey (or sugar) and yeast. Every bread flour absorbs a different amount of water, so start with 390ml water and reserve the rest for later.
- Stir in bread flour and salt until well combined. Add in remaining water gradually to achieve a dough consistency similar to that shown in the video.
- Cover and rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Stretch & Fold and First Proof
- Stretch & fold the dough. First, wet your hand (so the dough doesn’t stick) and then grab the dough at the 12 o’clock position in the bowl.
- Pull the dough upwards and then fold it down to the 6 o’clock position. Repeat this motion about 8-10 times around the bowl.
- The dough should tighten up a bit after performing the stretch & folds.
- Cover and rest at room temp for 15 minutes.
- Repeat the series of stretch & folds once more, cover and proof at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours or until the dough has nearly doubled in size.
Transfer to Tray and Second Proof:
- Prepare a large baking tray (see dimensions above in equipment list) with non-stick parchment paper and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. I put a tiny bit of oil underneath the paper so it stays in place on the tray.
- Tip the dough into the prepared tray. Rub a little oil from the tray onto your hands and fold one side of the dough towards the middle. Repeat with the other side, folding it over the top as if you are folding a piece of paper into thirds (it will look like a large burrito). Rotate the dough so its long side aligns with the long side of the tray, then flip it over so the seams from the folding are at the bottom and the top is smooth.
- Cover the dough with a piece of oiled parchment paper and leave it to proof at room
temperature for 1-1.5 hours.
Shape & Bake

- Preheat the oven to 220C or 430F and move the baking rack to the lowest position.
- Sprinkle the rosemary over the top of the dough and drizzle over about a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Dimple the rosemary into the dough, taking care not spread the dough all the way to the edges of the tray – there should be some empty tray bordering the dough (use the video tutorial for visual guidance). Use your hands gently guide the edges of the dough into a rectangular shape to it’s easy to cut the dough into evenly sized rolls.
- Use an oiled dough scraper or sharp knife to cut the rectangle in half. Cut each of those halves in half so you have four long roll shaped pieces of dough. Gently stretch the dough to the length of the tray (about 12-13 inches) and space them out evenly across the tray (see video).
Sprinkle each roll generously with Maldon Garlic Sea Salt and bake on the lowest rack of the oven for 18-22 minutes or until the rolls are a deep golden brown. Baking on the bottom rack should help to crisp up the bottom of the bread. - Once baked, remove from tray and transfer to a cooling rack. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in large freezer bags for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 2 months. To bring back to life, wrap in foil at bake at 200C/400F for 10-15 minutes. Peel back the foil for the last few minutes so they can crisp back up.
- Fill the rolls with your favourite summer sandwich fillings. My go-to is a caprese sandwich with pesto, rocket, aged balsamic vinegar, basil, mozzarella and juicy heirloom tomato slices…seasoned with more Maldon Garlic Sea Salt, of course!
Recipe by Lacey Ostermann
A Sweet-Savoury Twist!

When it comes to reimagining classics, Lacey is the master of this. Her Peach Crumble Focaccia is a perfect example – where the rustic soul of Italian bread meets the delicate sweetness of summer peaches, all brought into a bold balance with a finishing touch of Maldon Sea Salt flakes. This isn’t just a dessert or bread – it’s a conversation starter, a seasonal centrepiece, and a love letter to texture and contrast.
Mix:
- Whisk together warm water, olive oil, honey (or sugar) and yeast. Every bread flour absorbs a different amount of water, so start with 390ml water and reserve the rest for later.
- Stir in bread flour and salt until well combined. Add in remaining water gradually to achieve a dough consistency similar to that shown in the video. Cover and rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Stretch & Fold and First Proof:
- Stretch & fold the dough. First, wet your hand (so the dough doesn’t stick) and then grab the dough at the 12 o’clock position in the bowl. Pull the dough upwards and then fold it down to the 6 o’clock position. Repeat this motion about 8-10 times around the bowl. The dough should tighten up a bit after performing the stretch & folds. Cover and rest at room temp for 15 minutes.
- Repeat the series of stretch & folds once more, cover and proof at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours or until the dough has nearly doubled in size.
Prepare the Cinnamon Filling / Topping:
- First, brown the butter. Melt the butter in a medium frying pan over a medium high heat and then turn it to a simmer, stirring every 30 seconds or so to ensure the butter isn’t burning on the base of the pan. You’ll hear the bubbles from the butter sizzle as the water evaporates off of it but the sizzling will stop as the butter starts to foam up. Once this happens, look at the colour of the foam…you’ll start to notice lightly browned specks in the butter. Give the butter another good stir and remove from the heat. The butter should be a lovely golden brown (not dark brown – be careful as it can burn quickly!).
- Once the butter is browned, stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, a pinch of Maldon Sea Salt and vanilla until well combined.
Transfer to Tray and Second Proof:
- Prepare a metal baking tray (see dimensions above in equipment list) with non stick parchment paper and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. I put a tiny bit of oil underneath the paper so it stays in place on the tray.
- Tip the dough into the prepared tray and gently stretch the dough into an even layer so it reaches the edges of the tray. Spread half of the cinnamon filling all over the dough in an even layer and then fold one side of the dough towards the middle. Repeat with the other side, folding it over the top as if you are folding a piece of paper into thirds (it will look like a large burrito).Rotate the dough so its long side aligns with the long side of the tray, then flip it over so the seams from the folding are at the bottom and the top is smooth.
- Cover the dough with a piece of oiled parchment paper and leave it to proof at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours.
Prepare the Peaches and Crumble

- Cube 2/3 of the peaches and cut the remaining peach into attractive slices. Set aside.
- Mix together the flour and both types of sugar and slowly drizzle in the melted butter. Stir with a spoon until all of the flour/sugar has absorbed the butter. It will be a crumbly consistency. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
Dimple and Bake

- Preheat oven to 220C/430F and move the baking rack to the lowest position.
- Just before dimpling the dough, coat the chopped peaches with the remaining cinnamon filling in the frying pan. If the butter has solidified, you may need to reheat it briefly to make coating the peaches easier. Spread the cinnamon coated peaches evenly over the dough and dimple them in. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the dough. Coat the peach slices in any
extra cinnamon filling that remains in the pan and then push them into the dough. Finish with a sprinkle of Maldon Sea Salt Flakes – the perfect delicate hit of salt to balance all the sweet! - Bake on the lowest rack of the oven for 22-26 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and the peaches are starting to caramelise. Remove from baking tray and transfer to a cooling rack.
- Best enjoyed the day of baking but can be stored in a large plastic freezer bag or in an airtight container for up to two days. To bring back to life, wrap a portion in foil and bake at 220C/400Ffor 15 minutes or until heated through. Peel back the foil on top for the last few minutes to crisp up the crumble topping. Enjoy!
Make pizzeria‑style pizza at home with this easy dough and San Marzano sauce, baked on a Le Creuset BBQ pizza pan for a crisp base and chewy, blistered crust. The dough mixes in minutes, proves until airy, then stretches easily for topping with mozzarella, basil and your favourites. A pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt in the dough and sauce brings clean, bright flavour — perfect for pizza night or summer BBQs.
How to Cook Pizza on a Le Creuset BBQ Pizza Pan (Quick Steps)
- Preheat pan 30 minutes at 250–260°C (480–500°F).
- Stretch dough to 30cm; add light toppings.
- Launch onto hot pan; bake 8–10 minutes until base is crisp and rim blistered.
- Finish with basil and Maldon Original Sea Salt.
How to Make Pizza on a Le Creuset BBQ Pizza Pan (Detailed Version)

Step 1 – Mix and Prove the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, Maldon Original Sea Salt and yeast.
- Add water; stir until a sticky dough forms. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and spread to coat.
- Cover with a damp tea towel and prove in a warm place 60–90 minutes until doubled.
- Optional: ‘stretch & fold’ after 30 minutes (8-10 folds, rotating the bowl) to strengthen a high-hydration dough.
Step 2 – Divide the Ball
- Flour the work surface. Tip out dough and divide into 4 equal pieces.
- Gather edges to the centre, flip seam‑side down and shape into taut balls.
- Rest on a floured tray, covered, for 30 minutes — or refrigerate overnight in a lidded, floured container.
- If chilled, remove from the fridge 1 hour before baking.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
- Warm olive oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add blitzed tomatoes and a generous pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt.
- Simmer uncovered ~30 minutes until thickened. For ultra‑smooth, blitz again.
Step 4 – Preheat the Pan
- Set oven to its hottest (250–260°C / 480–500°F) or preheat BBQ to high with lid down.
- Place the Le Creuset BBQ pizza pan inside and heat at least 30 minutes. Make sure to follow Le Creuset guidance for maximum temperatures and handling.
Step 5 – Shape, Top and Bake
- Dust work surface with semolina. Flatten one dough ball with fingertips, then lift and stretch over knuckles to ~30cm, keeping a thicker rim.
- Place on a pizza paddle or flat, parchment‑lined tray.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce (don’t overload). Add mozzarella and light toppings. Drizzle crust with olive oil.
- Launch onto the preheated pan. Bake/BBQ 8–10 minutes until the base is crisp and the rim blistered. The texture should be crisp underside, airy cornichon, cheese melted with light browning.
- Finish with basil and a pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt. Repeat with remaining dough.
Tips & FAQs
Tips
- High heat is everything: preheat the pan for at least 30 minutes.
- Keep toppings light and well‑drained (pat mozzarella dry) to avoid soggy centres.
- Semolina acts like tiny ball bearings for easy launching; use a thin, even layer.
- If dough resists stretching, rest it 5–10 minutes to relax gluten.
- For extra flavour, cold‑ferment dough balls 12–24 hours.
FAQs:
- What temperature should I set for pizza on a BBQ pizza pan?
- Aim for the hottest your oven/BBQ safely reaches (typically 250–300°C / 480–570°F). Keep the lid down on a BBQ to hold heat.
- Can I use 00 flour instead of strong white bread flour?
- Yes. 00 flour gives a tender chew; strong bread flour adds structure. A 50:50 blend works well.
- How do I stop pizza sticking to the pan?
- Preheat the pan thoroughly and launch from a paddle/tray dusted with semolina. Avoid wet, heavy toppings.
- Can I make the dough ahead?
- Yes. Ball and chill up to 24 hours (or freeze balls up to 3 months). Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
- Stone vs pizza pan — which is better?
- Both can deliver a crisp base. A preheated cast‑iron/steel pan often reheats faster between pies and holds heat well on BBQs.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Margherita (mozzarella + basil), Diavola (salami + chilli), or Veggie (courgette ribbons + olives + capers).
- Finish hot pizzas with olive oil, Maldon Original Sea Salt, chilli flakes or a swirl of pesto.
- Side ideas: tomato and basil salad, rocket with lemon, marinated olives.
- Drinks: crisp lager, Italian red, or a Frozen Mango Margarita.
Storage & Reheating
- Leftover slices: refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat on the pizza pan at 220°C (425°F) for 5–7 minutes or in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for 3–4 minutes.
- Dough: refrigerate balled dough up to 24 hours; freeze up to 3 months (lightly oiled bags).
- Sauce: refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze 2 months.
- Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large, heavy based pot. Once hot, add the minced beef and season with Maldon Original Sea Salt and pepper. Fry over a medium-high for about 10 minutes, breaking up the meat with your wooden spoon until well browned. You don’t want the pot to be too crowded otherwise the meat will steam rather than brown, so work in two batches if needed.
- Scoop the meat out of the pot into a bowl and set aside. Add another 3 tbsp olive oil to the pot, along with the onions, peppers and garlic. Season with Maldon salt and pepper and cook gently over a medium low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring every so often, until soft.
- Add the meat back into the pot, along with the tomatoes. Fill each tin halfway with water, swill it around to get every last bit of tomato, then add the liquid to the pot. Bring up to a simmer then leave to blip away for 45 minutes, stirring every so often to ensure it’s not sticking on the bottom of the pot, until thickened and reduced. Stir through the oregano and basil, then taste for seasoning.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil and cook the lasagne sheets in a few batches for just 2 minutes until no longer rigid but still very al dente, then transfer to an oiled baking tray. Drizzle the sheets with a little olive oil so they don’t stick to one another.
- Preheat the oven to 180C fan.
- To assemble the lasagne, spoon a couple of ladles of the meat sauce into a large, rectangular baking dish (about 30cm by 20cm). Cover with lasagne sheets then add a single layer of courgette slices. Season the courgettes with a small pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt and pepper. Dot with roughly a third of the torn mozzarella, grate over roughly a third of the parmesan, and drizzle over roughly a third of the double cream. Repeat this layering process (meat sauce, lasagne sheets, courgette slices, seasoning, cheeses and cream) twice more. Drizzle the top with a little olive oil and cover the dish with foil. Put the dish on a baking tray (this will catch any spill over while baking).
- Bake for 20 minutes then remove the foil and bake a further 20 minutes until golden and bubbling. Leave to stand for 20-30 minutes before serving (this allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to slice).
These easy marinated olives take minutes and taste like your favourite tapas bar. Lemon zest, soft garlic and a pinch of chilli infuse warm olive oil, then olives and fresh parsley soak up the flavours. Finished with a pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt for clean, bright seasoning, this lemon‑garlic olives recipe is ideal for antipasti platters, last‑minute hosting or make‑ahead snacks.
How to Marinate Olives (Quick Steps)
- Gently warm olive oil with lemon zest and garlic; add chilli, then cool.
- Toss with olives, parsley and a pinch of Maldon Sea Salt.
- Marinate 30 minutes to overnight; serve at room temperature.
How to Make Marinated Olives (Detailed Version)

Step 1 – Infuse the Oil
- Add olive oil, lemon zest strips and sliced garlic to a small pan.
- Warm over medium‑low heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and the garlic softens; do not brown. You should see gentle bubbles around the garlic, with the colourisation being pale, not golden.
Step 2 – Add Heat & Cool
- Stir in a pinch of chilli flakes.
- Immediately remove from the heat and let the oil cool to room temperature.
Step 3 – Toss & Marinate
- In a bowl, combine olives, chopped parsley and a pinch of Maldon Original Sea Salt.
- Pour over the cooled oil and toss well to coat.
- Marinate at least 30 minutes; longer (up to overnight in the fridge) deepens flavour.
Step 4 – Serve
- Bring to room temperature. Taste and adjust salt or lemon zest.
- Spoon into a serving bowl with some infused oil.
- Serving suggestion: finish with a final pinch of Maldon flakes for crunchy contrast.
Tips & FAQs
Tips
- Use quality olives. Creamy Castelvetrano or meaty Kalamata work well; mix for colour and texture.
- Keep heat low. Browning garlic turns the oil bitter; you’re gently infusing.
- Cool the oil fully before adding parsley and olives to preserve freshness.
- For boards, marinate the day before; bring to room temp 20–30 minutes before serving so the oil isn’t congealed.
FAQs
- What olives are best for marinating?
- Mixed green and black, ideally firm and meaty. Pitted are convenient; whole hold shape better.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?
- Yes—start with 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme. Add fresh parsley before serving for brightness if you like.
- How long should olives marinate?
- Minimum 30 minutes; 12–24 hours (refrigerated) gives deeper flavour. Always serve at room temperature.
- How long do marinated olives keep?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container and use within 3–4 days. Keep submerged in oil, and always return leftovers to the fridge. Do not store at room temperature when fresh garlic is used.
- Can I reuse the marinade oil?
- Use within 3–4 days in salad dressings or to drizzle over feta/roasted veg. Keep refrigerated; discard if in doubt.
Serving Suggestions
- Add to antipasti boards with cheeses, cured meats, nuts and crackers.
- Spoon over whipped feta or labneh with extra lemon zest and Maldon Sea Salt.
- Toss through warm roasted potatoes or salads as a quick dressing.
- Pair with chilled rosé, lager or a classic martini.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store refrigerated up to 3–4 days in a clean jar; ensure olives are mostly covered by oil.
- Bring to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving so the oil loosens.
- If the garlic browns during infusion, start again—browned garlic can taste bitter.
These quick pickled red onions are the easiest way to add tangy crunch and colour to everything from tacos to salads. A hot brine of apple cider vinegar, warm spices and honey is poured over thinly sliced onions, then finished with Himalayan Pink Salt, Selected by Maldon for clean, bright seasoning. They turn vivid pink in just a few hours and keep well in the fridge — an effortless, make‑ahead topping you’ll use all week.
How to Make Quick Pickled Red Onions?
- Pack sliced onions in a sterilised jar.
- Simmer vinegar, honey, spices and Himalayan Pink Salt, Selected by Maldon; pour over onions.
- Seal, cool and refrigerate until bright pink (2–12 hours).
- Keep refrigerated; use within 2 weeks.
How to Make Quick Pickled Red Onions (Detailed Version)

Step 1 – Prep the Jar & Onions
- Thinly slice red onions (a mandolin helps).
- Pack into a large, sterilised heatproof jar. To sterilise quickly, wash, then heat the jar in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 10 minutes; air-dry lids.
Step 2 – Make the Hot Brine
- Add vinegar, honey (or sugar), coriander seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves and Himalayan Pink Salt, Selected by Sea Salt to a small pan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to dissolve, then remove from heat.
Step 3 – Pour & Seal
- Immediately pour hot brine over onions to fully submerge.
- Seal, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
Step 4 – Chill & Serve
- Leave to pickle a few hours until bright pink (flavour deepens overnight).
- Serve cold; keep onions submerged in brine.
Tips & FAQs
Tips
- Slice evenly (1–2 mm) for fast, even pickling.
- Pack tightly and submerge fully; top up with a splash more vinegar if needed.
- For softer bite, blanch slices in boiling water for 10 seconds; drain before jarring.
- Use caster sugar or maple syrup to make the recipe vegan.
FAQs:
- How long do pickled red onions last?
- Up to 2 weeks refrigerated in a clean, sealed jar. Always use clean utensils and keep onions submerged.
- Can I use different vinegar?
- Yes. White wine or red wine vinegar work; avoid malt vinegar for this style (overly strong).
- Do I need to sterilise the jar?
- Recommended for best quality. This is a refrigerator pickle (not canned); always store in the fridge.
- Can I reduce the sweetness?
- Yes. Adjust honey/sugar to taste; salt and acid provide the primary preservation.
- When are they ready to eat?
- After 1–2 hours for a quick pickle; best flavour and colour after 12–24 hours.
- Can I add other flavours?
- Try chilli flakes, fennel seeds, citrus peel, or garlic. Keep the basic acid‑salt ratio.
Serving Suggestions
- Tacos, burritos and quesadillas
- Burgers, hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches
- Grain bowls, salads and slaws
- Avocado toast, fried eggs or shakshuka
- Cheese and charcuterie boards (drain lightly, sprinkle Maldon flakes)
Storage & Safety
- Refrigerate immediately after cooling; keep onions submerged.
- Use within 14 days. Discard if cloudy, fizzy, mouldy or off‑smelling.
- Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
- Do not shelf‑store; this is not a canned product.
When the heat of summer sets in, nothing hits the spot quite like a chilled bowl of gazpacho. This classic Andalusian soup is a vibrant blend of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers and punchy onions, all pureed to smooth perfect. Light, hydrating, and bursting with garden-fresh flavour. It’s the ultimate warm-weather dish.
What takes this gazpacho to the next level is a finishing touch of Maldon Chilli Sea Salt. It’s delicate flakes and gentle heat from the Aleppo pepper and bird’s eye chilli adds a kick to the natural sweetness of the tomatoes whilst adding a subtle heat that lingers just enough to keep each spoonful exciting. Serve it topped with diced cucumber, juicy tomato halves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and fresh basil leaves.
How to Make Gazpacho
Step 1 – Tame the Onion
- Boil a full kettle. Put the chopped onion in a sieve over the sink.
- Pour the boiling water over to soften bite and mellow raw flavour. Drain well and cool.
Step 2 – Blend the Soup
- Add onion, tomatoes, peeled cucumber, red pepper, garlic, sherry vinegar and olive oil to a blender.
- Season with a big pinch of Maldon Chilli Sea Salt.
- Blend until smooth (or leave slightly chunky). Taste and adjust salt and vinegar to balance. The texture should be silky and pourable but not watery.
Step 3 – Chill
- Transfer to a jug or container, cover and chill at least 2 hours (longer improves flavour).
- Stir before serving as natural separation can occur.
Step 4 – Make the Topping & Serve
- Toss diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, basil and a pinch of Maldon Chilli Sea Salt with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Pour soup into bowls or small glasses, add 1–2 ice cubes per serving, spoon over the topping and finish with a little olive oil. Serve the soup well-chilled.
Tips & FAQs:
Tips
- Use ripe, in‑season tomatoes for natural sweetness and colour.
- Don’t skip chilling — it rounds acidity and lets flavours meld.
- For extra body, blend longer to emulsify the olive oil thoroughly.
- Prefer a super‑smooth finish? Blend, then pass through a fine sieve.
- Adjust heat with Maldon Chilli Sea Salt at the table for clean, crunchy warmth.
FAQs:
- What’s the best vinegar for gazpacho?
- Sherry vinegar delivers classic depth and balance; red wine vinegar works in a pinch.
- Can I make gazpacho ahead?
- Yes. Make 1–2 days ahead; flavours improve. Stir and re‑season with salt/vinegar just before serving.
- Can you freeze gazpacho?
- You can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and re‑blend to restore texture.
- How do I thicken gazpacho without bread?
- Emulsify longer, or add extra tomato and a little more olive oil. If desired, blend in a small piece of peeled cucumber for body.
- How do I make it spicier?
- Add a small fresh chilli to the blend or increase the Maldon Chilli Sea Salt sprinkle when serving.
- Is this gazpacho vegan and gluten‑free?
- Yes — as written, it’s naturally vegan and gluten‑free.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in small glasses as a canapé shot for summer parties or alongside a tapas spread.
- Pair with tortilla Española, grilled prawns, or crusty bread with olive oil.
- Garnish variations: diced roasted pepper, finely chopped red onion, or a swirl of basil oil.
- For a lighter lunch, add a side of leafy salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate in an airtight jug or container for 3–4 days.
- Keep toppings separate; add just before serving to maintain crunch.
- Not intended for reheating. If separation occurs, stir or briefly re‑blend.