Tips for Marinades: To Salt or Not to Salt

There are so many great conversations on the Hotline -- it's hard to choose a favorite. But we'll be doing it, once a week, to spread the wealth of our community's knowledge -- and to keep the conversation going.

This week our our VP of Technology Karl shared a handy marinade formula -- no recipe required. With his five easy steps, you’re well on your way to a variety of homemade marinades and more flavorful grilled dishes. But even experienced marinade-makers have heard conflicting advice about when to add salt. Should it go in the marinade? Or should you salt the dish later? Does it matter?

Pegreen asked the community to weigh in on this conundrum, and so far we've got ChefOno in the salt the marinade camp. He explains:

Whereas most marinades don't do much for tenderizing or anything for moisture, salt does. It will help the flavors in the marinade penetrate and remain behind after cooking. And of course, salt is a flavor enhancer by and of itself. There are no downsides (unless you over-salt) despite the myth about salt "drawing out moisture."

We want to know what you think. Add your two cents to the question on the Hotline here, or continue the conversation in the comments below!