Tastefully piquant, just like a sailor (5)

I believe the answer is:

salty

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'tastefully piquant' is the definition.
'salty' can be an answer for 'piquant' (synonyms). I'm unsure of the 'tastefully' bit.

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for salty that I've seen before include "Engagingly stimulating or provocative" , "Piquant" , "Sharp (language, humour)" , "Brackish" , "Saline" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app