10 Easy DIY Sauces and Seasonings for Clean Eating

Making your own sauces and seasonings doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up delicious, clean eating staples right in your kitchen. Here are 10 easy DIY recipes that will take your meals from bland to bursting with flavor!

Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a refreshing and zesty dressing that adds brightness to any salad or dish. With its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, this vinaigrette is not only simple to make but also a wonderful way to elevate your clean eating meals.

Using just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dressing in no time. The apple cider brings a unique flavor profile that complements leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or even grains. It’s a versatile recipe that you’ll want to keep on hand!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before each use.

Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

This creamy avocado cilantro sauce is a fresh and zesty addition to any meal. It’s smooth, rich, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a dip for veggies. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up!

With just a few ingredients, you can create this delightful sauce that combines the creaminess of avocado with the bright, herbal notes of cilantro. It’s a fantastic way to add a healthy twist to your dishes while keeping things clean and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and minced garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and blend again to combine.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy with your favorite dishes!

Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce

This Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce is a creamy, nutty delight that packs a flavorful punch. With a combination of rich tahini, zesty garlic, and a hint of spice, it elevates any dish with its bold taste. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for quick meals or snacks.

 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon water (more if needed)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Mix the tahini, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
2. Add the water and red pepper flakes, stirring until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.
3. Season with salt to taste. For a richer flavor, drizzle in olive oil.
4. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy!

 

Zesty Lemon Herb Dressing

This Zesty Lemon Herb Dressing is the perfect addition to elevate your meals. Its bright, tangy flavor paired with fresh herbs makes it a delightful companion for salads, grilled veggies, or even as a marinade. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, taking only a few minutes!

With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dressing that’s both refreshing and versatile. The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs brings a burst of flavor to your dishes, making clean eating delicious and enjoyable.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey (or maple syrup) in a bowl.
2. Whisk together until well mixed and creamy.
3. Add chopped parsley and basil, stirring gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce is a fantastic way to add a kick to your meals. With its smoky flavor and a hint of heat, it’s perfect for grilling season or any time you want to elevate your dishes. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up at home, giving you a healthier alternative to store-bought sauces.

Using just a handful of ingredients, this sauce balances sweetness and spice to create a mouthwatering addition to your clean eating repertoire. Whether you’re slathering it on grilled chicken or using it as a dipping sauce, this BBQ sauce will surely impress!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
4. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Savory Tomato Basil Marinara

This savory tomato basil marinara sauce is a classic favorite that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. With its rich tomato base and fragrant basil, it’s both comforting and versatile. Plus, making it at home is super easy!

You can whip this sauce up in no time, making it a perfect addition to pasta, pizzas, or even as a dipping sauce. Enjoy the fresh taste of tomatoes paired with aromatic herbs, and feel good knowing exactly what’s in your sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and sugar. Add oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In the last few minutes of cooking, mix in fresh basil and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot over your favorite pasta or use as a pizza sauce. Enjoy!

Fresh Ginger Soy Glaze

This Fresh Ginger Soy Glaze is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any dish. The zesty kick of fresh ginger pairs perfectly with the umami of soy sauce, making it a fantastic addition to grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even as a dipping sauce for appetizers. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!

You’ll love how just a few ingredients come together to create something so tasty. This glaze is not only versatile but also a healthier option, allowing you to control the flavors and ingredients without any preservatives. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey or maple syrup has dissolved and the mixture is warmed through.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool. The glaze will thicken more as it cools.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Herbed Quinoa Seasoning Blend

This Herbed Quinoa Seasoning Blend adds vibrant flavors to your meals with minimal effort. It’s a simple mix of herbs and spices that can elevate the taste of quinoa, making it a perfect side dish or base for a salad. With a combination of fresh herbs and toasted seeds, this blend offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements any clean eating dish.

Making this seasoning is quick and easy. Just mix the ingredients in a bowl, and it’s ready to use! You’ll love how it transforms plain quinoa into a savory delight, inviting everyone to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, add the rinsed quinoa and double the amount of water (2 cups). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Make the Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Combine: Once the quinoa is cooked, stir in the seasoning blend along with the pumpkin seeds and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve: Enjoy your herbed quinoa as a side dish, or use it as a base for salads or bowls!

Lively Green Salsa Verde

Lively Green Salsa Verde brings a fresh and zesty kick to any dish. This salsa, made primarily from tomatillos and fresh herbs, strikes the right balance between tangy and savory. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a quick snack or a lively topping for tacos and grilled meats.

In just a few steps, you can have a vibrant sauce that enhances your meals without overwhelming them. Serve it with tortilla chips, drizzle it over grilled chicken, or mix it into your favorite salads for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

• 6-8 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1-2 jalapeños, stemmed (adjust for desired heat)
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Tomatillos: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatillos, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until they start to brown and soften.
2. Blend the Ingredients: Transfer the roasted ingredients to a blender or food processor. Add the jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
3. Chill and Serve: Let the salsa cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Sweet Mango Chutney

Sweet mango chutney is a delightful blend of ripe mangoes and spices that offers a burst of flavor in every bite. It combines sweetness with a hint of spice, making it a versatile condiment perfect for various dishes. This chutney is super easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious balance of taste.

Ideal for pairing with grilled meats, curries, or even as a dip for snacks, sweet mango chutney can elevate any meal. Plus, making it at home means you can adjust the spices to your liking, ensuring it perfectly suits your palate.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the diced mangoes, chopped onion, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and chili flakes.
2. Cook the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mangoes are soft and the chutney thickens.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add salt as needed. If you prefer a spicier chutney, feel free to add more chili flakes.
4. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, transfer the chutney to a sterilized jar and refrigerate. It can be enjoyed fresh or after a day for the flavors to develop further.