10 Quick and Delicious DIY Sauces and Seasonings for Busy Cooks

Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore, especially when it comes to flavoring your meals! Here are 10 simple DIY sauce and seasoning recipes that will make your dishes pop without taking up too much of your time. Perfect for busy cooks looking to add a little zing to their everyday cooking!

Zesty Chimichurri for Grilled Meats

Zesty chimichurri is a fresh, herby sauce that packs a flavorful punch, making it the perfect companion for grilled meats. With its vibrant blend of parsley, garlic, and vinegar, this sauce brings a tangy brightness to any dish. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, taking just a few minutes in your kitchen.

This chimichurri not only enhances the flavor of grilled steak, chicken, or veggies, but it also adds a lively touch to your meal. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used as a marinade or a finishing drizzle, making it a go-to for busy cooks wanting to elevate their grilling game.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the chopped parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
2. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
3. Let it sit: Allow the chimichurri to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Serve: Drizzle over grilled meats or use as a marinade before cooking.

Spicy Sriracha Mayo for Sandwiches

This Spicy Sriracha Mayo packs a punch with its creamy texture and fiery kick. It makes a fantastic addition to sandwiches, giving them a flavorful boost that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy cooks who want to elevate their meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The combination of mayonnaise and sriracha creates a balance of richness and heat, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their life. Use it on turkey or veggie sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce for fries or fresh veggies. You’ll find yourself reaching for this sauce again and again!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Sriracha sauce. Start with 2 tablespoons of Sriracha and adjust based on how spicy you like it.
2. Add lime juice and garlic powder, mixing until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to blend all the flavors.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve on sandwiches or use as a dip for snacks!

Cilantro Lime Rice Seasoning

Cilantro lime rice is a delightful dish that brings a fresh, zesty flavor to your meals. With the bright notes of lime paired with fragrant cilantro, this recipe is both simple and quick to make. It’s perfect for busy cooks looking to add a burst of flavor without spending much time in the kitchen.

This seasoning not only enhances the taste of rice but can also be used to elevate tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. Enjoy the refreshing blend that complements a variety of dishes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
2. Fluff the Rice: Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
3. Add Seasoning: Stir in olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Serve: Enjoy your cilantro lime rice as a side dish or as a flavorful base for your favorite meals!

Savory Italian Herb Blend

If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen, this Savory Italian Herb Blend is the perfect solution. It’s a simple mix of herbs that captures the essence of Italian cooking and enhances everything from pasta to grilled meats. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this versatile blend in no time.

This herb mix is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to use. A sprinkle here and there can transform a basic dish into something special. Whether you’re tossing it in a sauce or using it to season vegetables, it brings that authentic Italian taste right to your table.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the dried basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Transfer the herb blend to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several months.
4. Use this blend to season pasta dishes, meats, or vegetables to enhance flavor effortlessly.

Classic Tzatziki Sauce with Fresh Vegetables

Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing and creamy delight that pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables. It offers a cool, tangy flavor thanks to the yogurt and cucumber, making it perfect for dipping or as a topping. This sauce is not only easy to whip up, but it also brings a burst of flavor to your meals or snacks.

Combining the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the crunch of fresh veggies, tzatziki is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. It’s a versatile sauce that complements many dishes, from grilled meats to pita bread. Plus, making it at home means you can customize it to your taste!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery sauce.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Chill: Cover the tzatziki and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve: Enjoy with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumber, or bell peppers for a healthy snack!

Umami-Rich Mushroom Seasoning

This umami-rich mushroom seasoning is a fantastic way to elevate your dishes with minimal effort. Perfect for busy cooks, this seasoning adds depth and flavor to everything from soups and stews to roasted vegetables and pasta. With its earthy notes and savory kick, it’s simple to whip up and can be stored for future use.

Creating this seasoning blend is straightforward and you only need a few key ingredients. Once made, it can easily become your go-to seasoning for enhancing the taste of various meals. Here’s how to make your own mushroom seasoning:

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried mushrooms (shiitake or porcini work well)
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend the mushrooms: In a blender or spice grinder, pulse the dried mushrooms until they become a fine powder.
2. Mix the spices: In a bowl, combine the mushroom powder with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Store: Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. Use this seasoning to sprinkle over your favorite dishes for added flavor.

Creamy Avocado Dressing

This creamy avocado dressing is a delightful way to liven up your salads and bowls with its rich, smooth texture and fresh flavor. Packed with healthy fats, it offers a luxurious feel while still being simple to whip up in just a few minutes.

The taste is a perfect balance of creamy avocado and a hint of tanginess, making it ideal for drizzling over vibrant greens or as a dip for veggies. You’ll love how effortlessly it enhances your meals!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce

This Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that will take your grilling to the next level. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it an ideal companion for ribs, chicken, or even veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long!

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a sauce that packs a punch and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to enhance your weeknight meals, this sauce is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using or storing.
5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Smoky Paprika Spice Mix

If you’re looking to add a bold kick to your meals, a homemade Smoky Paprika Spice Mix is just the ticket. This blend brings together the rich flavors of smoked paprika, complemented by earthy and aromatic spices. It’s simple to whip up and can elevate everything from meats to vegetables with its warm, smoky undertones.

This mix not only adds depth to your dishes but is also versatile enough to use in marinades, dressings, or as a seasoning for roasted veggies. It’s a great go-to for busy cooks who want to pack flavor without fuss. Ready to spice up your pantry?

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix well until they’re evenly blended.
2. Transfer the spice mix to an airtight container for storage.
3. Use this mix to season meats, sprinkle on veggies, or incorporate into sauces for a delightful smoky flavor.

Honey Garlic Sauce for Stir-Fry

Honey garlic sauce is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect companion for stir-fried dishes. This sauce is simple to whip up, requiring just a few pantry staples, and it elevates any meal with its rich taste. Whether you’re tossing it with chicken, tofu, or a medley of vegetables, this sauce adds a layer of deliciousness that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Not only is it quick to prepare, but the combination of honey and garlic creates a sticky glaze that coats your ingredients beautifully. This sauce is ideal for busy cooks looking to add a burst of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Season: Stir in ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.
4. Combine: Drizzle the honey garlic sauce over your stir-fry in the last few minutes of cooking for a perfect finish.