10 Delicious Homemade Sauces and Seasonings Without Preservatives

Making your own sauces and seasonings at home is a fun way to add flavor to your meals without relying on preservatives. This collection of 10 easy DIY recipes will show you how to whip up delicious, homemade condiments that elevate your dishes and keep things fresh. Say goodbye to store-bought options, and get ready to spice up your cooking game!

Classic Italian Seasoning Blend

This Classic Italian Seasoning Blend is your go-to for adding authentic Italian flavors to any dish. With a mix of fragrant herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, it brings a taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Simple to make, you can whip this up in no time and use it in everything from pasta sauces to roasted vegetables.

Not only does this blend enhance the flavor of your meals, but it also allows you to avoid preservatives often found in store-bought options. So, let’s get started and create a delightful seasoning that you can keep on hand for all your culinary needs!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the dried herbs: In a small bowl, combine all the herbs and spices thoroughly.
2. Store: Transfer the seasoning blend into an airtight jar or container for easy use.
3. Use: Sprinkle this blend over pasta, pizza, or your favorite roasted dishes for a burst of Italian flavor.

Tangy Honey Mustard Dressing

This Tangy Honey Mustard Dressing is a delightful blend of sweetness and zest. It adds a refreshing kick to salads, sandwiches, and grilled veggies. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as desired.
4. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to a week.

 

Rich Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce

This rich tomato basil pasta sauce is a delightful combination of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil, creating a vibrant flavor profile that’s perfect for any pasta dish. It’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

The sweetness of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of fresh basil, resulting in a sauce that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s preservative-free, ensuring you know exactly what’s going into your meal. Ready to make your own homemade sauce?

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Blend the sauce with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired. Serve hot over pasta or let it cool for later use.

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Sauce is a delicious blend of smoky and spicy flavors that will elevate any grilled dish. It’s perfect for ribs, chicken, or even as a dipping sauce for veggies. Making this sauce at home is simple and rewarding, with fresh ingredients that pack a punch.

This sauce balances sweetness and heat, making it great for those who enjoy a kick in their barbecue. Plus, without preservatives, you can feel good about what you’re serving. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade delight!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over medium heat.
2. Add minced chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade

This Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade is a refreshing blend of bright flavors and aromatic herbs. It’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to choice for adding a burst of taste to your favorite proteins and veggies.

With tangy lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, this marinade enhances the natural flavors of your dish. Perfect for grilling or baking, it’s a delightful way to elevate your meals without any preservatives.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated.
3. Place your protein or vegetables in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
4. Remove from the marinade and cook as desired. Enjoy your zesty dish!

Sweet and Spicy Chili Sauce

Sweet and spicy chili sauce is the perfect blend of heat and sweetness that can elevate any dish. It’s easy to make and packs a punch, making it a versatile condiment for everything from grilled meats to stir-fries. This sauce is not only delicious but also made without preservatives, ensuring you know exactly what goes into your food.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this sauce in no time. The balance of sugar and chili creates a delightful flavor that can satisfy your cravings for something sweet and hot. Whether you’re dipping fresh veggies or drizzling it over your favorite dishes, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chili peppers, chopped (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the chopped chili peppers, sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Cook the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally for about 5-10 minutes until the flavors meld.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
4. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it to a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Savory Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli is a creamy, flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish. It combines the rich taste of garlic with a smooth base, making it perfect for dipping, drizzling, or spreading. This homemade version is easy to whip up, and you can adjust the garlic level to suit your taste.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful sauce that pairs wonderfully with fries, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Say goodbye to store-bought condiments filled with preservatives and hello to fresh, homemade goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully blended.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve with your favorite foods or as a spread on sandwiches.

Creamy Avocado Dressing

This creamy avocado dressing is a deliciously simple way to elevate salads, tacos, or grilled meats. With its smooth texture and fresh taste, it’s perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of zest to their meals without any preservatives. The blend of ripe avocados, lime juice, and seasonings creates a bright, tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Making this dressing is quick and easy. Just toss the ingredients into a blender, and you’ll have a velvety sauce ready in minutes. It’s a great addition to your homemade sauce repertoire and will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add salt, pepper, and cilantro if using. Blend again to combine.
4. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lime juice for extra tang if desired.
5. Transfer to a bowl and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Mediterranean Spice Rub

The Mediterranean spice rub is a fantastic blend that captures the essence of vibrant flavors from the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean. It brings a delicious mix of earthy and aromatic spices, perfect for enhancing grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a seasoning for dips. Making this rub is super simple and requires just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Its warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic profile makes it a versatile addition to your cooking. You can easily adjust the ratios based on your taste preferences, making it a fun recipe to play around with. Once you try this rub, you might find yourself using it on everything!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine all the spices and mix well until fully blended.
2. Store: Transfer the spice rub to an airtight container or jar. It can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
3. Use: Rub the mixture generously onto your choice of protein or vegetables before cooking. It works great on chicken, lamb, fish, or roasted veggies. Enjoy!

Cilantro Lime Sauce

Cilantro lime sauce is a fresh and zesty addition to any meal. With its vibrant flavors, it brings a bright twist to tacos, salads, and grilled meats. This sauce is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The combination of zesty lime and fragrant cilantro creates a deliciously refreshing taste. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and it’s preservative-free, making it a wholesome choice for your kitchen. Enjoy this sauce drizzled over your favorite dishes or as a dip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt or sour cream with lime juice and minced garlic.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, salt, black pepper, and cumin if using. Stir until well mixed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a thinner consistency, add a little water or extra lime juice.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week. Enjoy it with your favorite dishes!