Seasoning mixes, like this Southwest seasoning mix, are a time saver in the kitchen. Instead of measuring out several different spices and herbs each time you want a particular flavor, you can reach for a seasoning mix and measure out the amount you need one time. That’s nice when you’re pinched for time.

Why make your own seasoning mixes?
Making your own seasoning mix makes sense for a number of reasons. The price you pay for purchased blends is more than dollars and cents. All too often additives and excess sodium tag along with the spices and herbs you’re looking for. If you want to find a healthier alternative, look no further than your own spice cupboard. You can make your own spice mix. So why not try it now? It’s easy to make. You control the ingredients. You can reduce the amount of sodium, and tailor the spices and herbs to your own tastes.
To sum it up:
- You can avoid additives and excess sodium.
- You control the ingredients and can personalize the flavors to the tastes you like best.
- Seasoning mixes are quick and easy to make.
What’s not to like about that?

What’s a good seasoning mix to start with?
The Southwest Seasoning Mix recipe I have below is an easy seasoning mix to start with. It’s salt-free but packed with flavor and little bit of heat. Use it as a dry rub or in a marinade to season grilled chicken, fish, pork, or beef. Add it to fresh salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a Southwest taste.
Or think outside the box and mix it in with homemade hummus or sprinkle on green beans or other veggies before cooking. The possibilities are endless – tacos, fajitas, roasts, appetizers and more. Toss the spices and herbs together and store in a jar in a cool, dry place. And when you’re hungry for spicy Southwest flavors, just reach for your jar of Southwest seasoning mix and enjoy!

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What spices and herbs do I need to make southwest seasoning?
You really only need a few spices to make this flavorful Southwest seasoning: cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Just mix them all together and store your jar in a cool, dry place.

When you want to use some, start with a teaspoon or two and work your way up. I often use a couple tablespoons when I use it for a dry rub on roast or fish. Sometimes I mix it with olive oil and smear it on chicken, like in my Easy Southwest Grilled Chicken recipe.
It also works well when added to appetizers, like my Southwest Tuna Stuffed Mini-Peppers. You may not think tuna goes with Southwest flavors, but it does! This is a great appetizer to take to gatherings with friends or family. However you use it, you’ll love the smokey Southwest flavor it brings to your dishes.
You may also enjoy these recipes!
How to Make a Southwest Seasoning Mix
Ingredients
- 8 tsp. cumin
- 8 tsp. chili powder
- 4 tsp. oregano
- 4 tsp. smoked paprika
- 4 tsp. coriander
- 4 tsp. onion powder
- 1 Tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper more or less if desired
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a small jar
- Store in a cool, dry place
Notes

Original recipe from 2015, updated 2020.
This looks great! It has been on my list for a while now to start making my own seasoning blends – I guess now is the time! Thanks for sharing this recipe!
I was the same way and just decided to do the southwest seasoning. Love it and now I want to try other seasoning blends. Thanks for stopping!
Did you use dried oregano leaves or ground oregano?
Hi Anita – I use the oregano I dry from my garden each year. So it’s leaves, but I crush them until they’re quite fine. If you use a store-bought oregano I would use ground oregano. Hope that helps! Thanks for visiting!
I think this is a lot like the taco seasoning we make at home. Would love to try it on some different Southwestern dishes. Thanks for posting!
Thanks for this. As someone with heart failure, salt free spice blends like this are a life saver (literally). Just a note to make sure that people use a salt free chili powder, not all brands are salt free so check out the ingredients. I use this Blend all the time with peppers and onions. Toss with some olive oil and throw it in on the grill in veggie grill basket. My guests have no idea it’s salt free. Perfect side dish when having a BBQ!
Dave, I’m so happy to read your comment! There are so many options out there that don’t have to be filled with salt. And I love that this one works for you. We love it too and I use all the time here at home. Thanks so much for your feedback!
I am excited to use this with chedder cheese, cream cheese, sour cream. I had something like this over ten years ago and was in love. I ate them with wheat thins. Was looking before but now have to be salt free. WOOHOO can’t wait.
Yay! I hope you enjoy it!