I know, I know. We've all heard about the dangers of too much salt in food. But I'm here to defend the use of this old, ubiquitous spice--in moderation, of course. Understandably, people are afraid when it comes to seasoning with salt. Because of this fear and reluctance, I believe many cooks don't season their foods properly. Without adequate seasoning, dishes can taste bland, boring, flat and flavorless. Salt brings out the taste of foods, enhancing the flavors and making dishes more appealing. It also balances bitterness and enhances sweet foods.
Of course, anything in excess is unhealthy, and folks who have medical issues, such as hypertension, should monitor their salt intake carefully. On the other hand, if you're healthy, you can be a smart salt user: moderate your intake by avoiding processed foods, restaurant foods, canned soups and condiments that are high in sodium. Use low-sodium stocks when making soup, which allows you to control the level of salt. And if you do overindulge, a good workout and drinking plenty of water will help.
The next time your food seems a bit bland and boring, try an extra sprinkle of salt. Take care though, practice moderation, and make smart choices.
