Don’t let a lack of one ingredient stop you from trying a new recipe. Here are some common substitutions:

Lemons

Use: fresh lime juice or half the amount of white or red wine vinegar

Fresh Basil

Use: fresh mint (slightly less) or fresh cilantro

Dry Bread Crumbs

Use: crushed cracker crumbs, cornflakes, or croutons

Chili Powder

For 1 teaspoon, use: 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1⁄4 teaspoon dried cumin, and a dash of bottled hot sauce

Kosher Salt

Use: fine table salt, substituting 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 the amount called for

Fresh Cilantro

Use: fresh flat-leaf parsley

Cheddar

Use: Colby, Monterey Jack, or American

Fresh Herbs

Use: the dried version, substituting 1⁄3 the amount called for

Nutmeg

Use: cinnamon, ginger, or allspice (for sweet, not savory, recipes)

Buttermilk

For 1 cup, use: 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or vinegar), plus enough milk to equal 1 cup (let stand 5 minutes)