Flaky salt elevates eats, let me explain. Flaky salt – like Maldon or fleur de sel – is a finishing salt prized for its light, crisp texture and delicate, snowflake-like crystals. It dissolves quickly on the tongue, enhancing flavor while adding a satisfying crunch. Once reserved for high-end kitchens, flaky salt is now finding its way into everyday home cooking. Here are four delicious ways to use it to elevate your everyday with decadent simplicity.

1. The best homemade popcorn

Few things beat freshly popped popcorn with real butter and a pinch of flaky salt. Start by heating a neutral oil (coconut oil works beautifully) in a large pot with three test kernels. When all three pop, your oil is at the perfect temperature. Remove the popped kernels, add ⅓ cup of fresh kernels, and swirl off the heat for about 15 seconds before returning the pot to the burner. Your popcorn should pop evenly with no burnt bits. Finish with melted butter and a generous sprinkle of flaky salt.

2. Steakhouse-worthy sirloins

Want to recreate the steakhouse experience at home? Let your steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Season with pepper and only half your usual salt – save the flaky salt for the finish. Sear the steak in a hot cast-iron pan until it reaches your desired doneness. Add a pat of butter and a pinch of flaky salt just before serving. Instant upgrade.

3. Better-than-best chocolate chip cookies

Salt in baked goods brings out the sweetness, but flaky salt on top adds a delightful texture, too. Whip up your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough, then sprinkle a light dusting of flaky salt on each cookie before baking. The result? Sweet, salty, chewy perfection. You’ll never skip this step again.

4. The ice cream topping you didn’t know you needed

The New York Times popularized an unexpected combination: vanilla ice cream drizzled with olive oil, topped with chopped dates and flaky salt. The fruitiness of the oil and richness of the dates draw out the complexity of the vanilla, while the salt ties everything together with a subtle, satisfying crunch. It’s weird… in the best way.

Let flaky salt be your little secret to making everyday dishes feel a little more gourmet.