5 ingredients that make everything taste better

Hey!

Quick question: Do you ever follow a recipe exactly, but it just tastes... meh?

I get this question ALL the time. People message me saying "I made your recipe but it doesn't taste like yours!"

99% of the time, it's because they're missing these 5 secret ingredients that I put in almost everything.

Here are my flavor game-changers:

1. Fresh lemon juice Not bottled - fresh! A squeeze of lemon brightens everything from salads to soups to roasted vegetables. It's like turning up the volume on all the other flavors.

2. Good quality salt Not all salt is created equal. Sea salt or kosher salt makes a HUGE difference. And here's the key - add it while cooking, not just at the end.

3. Fresh garlic This is my secret weapon! I put fresh garlic in probably 80% of my recipes. It adds depth and richness that garlic powder just can't match. Pro tip: let minced garlic sit for 10 minutes before cooking to develop maximum flavor.

4. A splash of acid Could be lemon juice, lime juice, or even a tiny bit of apple cider vinegar. Acid balances rich or heavy dishes and makes everything taste more vibrant.

5. Fresh herbs Even just a sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil at the end transforms a dish from "okay" to "wow, this is restaurant quality!"

Here's the thing...

These aren't exotic ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen right now. But knowing HOW and WHEN to use them? That's what separates good cooks from great ones.

Try this challenge: Pick one recipe you make regularly and add ONE of these ingredients. I guarantee it will taste better than usual.

All of my recipe collections include specific tips on when to use these flavor boosters. Speaking of which...

Every single recipe includes these little flavor secrets that make the difference between "edible" and "amazing."

What's your go-to ingredient that makes everything taste better? Hit reply and let me know!

Keep cooking! Sarah

P.S. - I literally keep fresh lemons on my counter at all times. When in doubt, add lemon juice. It fixes almost everything! 🍋