When I think about grilling, I crave cooked meats or fish with an intense smoky flavor. Lately, I have been experimenting with different ways to enhance this taste; after all it’s the time of year we use the grill the most! What did I come up with? Blackening spice.

Usually, blackening requires cooking in a hot, iron skillet and the addition of butter, but it’s summertime and I want a seriously spiced piece of grilled meat or fish. If you’re like me, you are bound to enjoy this recipe for Blackening Spice – use it on Salmon, shrimp, chicken, steaks, ribs and other meats you enjoy! Combine: 2 Tbsp paprika, 1 Tbsp garlic powder, 2 tsp onion powder, 2 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Happy Independence Day!!