10 Quick and Easy DIY Sauces and Seasonings for Clean Eating

Eating clean doesn’t have to be bland or time-consuming! Here are 10 quick and easy DIY sauce and seasoning recipes to add some zing to your meals. Perfect for anyone looking to whip up delicious flavors from scratch without reaching for processed options. Get ready to elevate your dishes in no time!

Zesty Avocado Lime Dressing

This Zesty Avocado Lime Dressing is a burst of freshness that will elevate any salad or dish. With its creamy texture and tangy lime flavor, it’s both delicious and simple to whip up in just a few minutes.

Perfect for clean eating, this dressing is not only healthy but also versatile. Use it to drizzle over greens, as a dip for veggies, or even as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish!

Lemon Dill Quinoa Dressing

Lemon Dill Quinoa Dressing is a bright and refreshing addition to your meals. With its zesty lemon flavor and fresh dill, this dressing brings a burst of taste that enhances salads, grain bowls, and more. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeks when you want a healthy option without the hassle.

This dressing not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. The lemon adds vitamin C while the dill provides antioxidants. Whether you drizzle it over quinoa, use it as a marinade, or just enjoy it as a dip, this dressing is sure to elevate your clean eating game!

Simple Herb Vinaigrette

This Simple Herb Vinaigrette is a delicious way to add a burst of fresh flavor to your salads and dishes. With vibrant herbs blending seamlessly with tangy vinegar and smooth oil, it’s a great dressing that complements almost any meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up at home with just a few ingredients!

Perfect for those looking to eat clean, this vinaigrette is not only quick to make but also customizable to suit your taste. You can use any combination of fresh herbs you like, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like parsley, basil, or cilantro), finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the finely chopped herbs and mix until evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
4. Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar or bottle and store in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.

Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce

This Spicy Garlic Tahini Sauce is a creamy, zesty delight that packs a punch! Perfect for drizzling over salads, veggies, or grain bowls, it combines the nutty flavor of tahini with a spicy kick from garlic and chili. Simple to whip up, this sauce will quickly become a staple in your clean-eating repertoire.

With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious sauce that complements many dishes. It’s smooth, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy, making it a versatile choice for any meal. You can even adjust the heat to suit your taste!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust for heat)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Mix the Tahini: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, water, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Flavors: Stir in minced garlic, chili paste, and salt. Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili paste.
3. Serve: Transfer the sauce to a serving dish, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy it with your favorite dishes!

Tangy Mustard Maple Glaze

This Tangy Mustard Maple Glaze is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that can elevate any dish. With its rich maple flavor balanced by the sharpness of mustard, it adds a refreshing twist to meats, vegetables, and even grilled dishes. Plus, it’s simple to whip up in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.

This glaze not only enhances the taste of your meals but also keeps things clean and wholesome. You can easily control the ingredients, ensuring that you’re serving something nutritious. Perfect for drizzling over roasted chicken or as a dip for fresh veggies, this glaze will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine Dijon mustard and maple syrup. Mix until smooth.
2. Add apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more maple syrup.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
5. Drizzle over your favorite dishes or use as a marinade before grilling!

Classic Tomato Basil Sauce

Classic Tomato Basil Sauce is a staple that brings a burst of fresh flavor to any dish. With the bright taste of ripe tomatoes and the aromatic scent of basil, it’s a simple yet satisfying sauce that elevates pasta, pizzas, and more. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a go-to for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.

This sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. It’s perfect for clean eating, as you can control the ingredients and avoid any preservatives. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes to develop flavors, stirring occasionally.
5. Mix in the fresh basil and red wine vinegar, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve over your favorite pasta or use as a pizza sauce. Enjoy!

Creamy Cashew Cheese Spread

This creamy cashew cheese spread is a delicious, dairy-free alternative that’s perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. The blend of cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices creates a rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for quick clean eating!

The spread is not just tasty; it’s also packed with healthy fats and nutrients. It’s versatile, too—use it as a sandwich spread, a dip, or even a topping for baked potatoes. You’re in for a treat with this simple recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water (or more for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. Place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, onion powder, salt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. If the mixture is too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Smoky Chipotle Sauce

Smoky Chipotle Sauce brings a delightful kick to your meals. Its rich, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a zesty dip. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!

This sauce combines the heat of chipotle peppers with a hint of sweetness and tang, creating a mouthwatering blend that’s hard to resist. Perfect for those looking to add a little zing to their clean eating routine, this sauce is both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic powder, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
2. Season: Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. Adjust the spiciness by adding more chipotle peppers if desired.
3. Chill: Transfer the sauce to a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Serve: Use this smoky chipotle sauce as a dip, drizzle it over tacos, or mix it into your favorite dishes for added flavor!

Cilantro Lime Marinade

Cilantro Lime Marinade is a vibrant and zesty blend that brings a refreshing taste to your dishes. Perfect for grilled meats, seafood, or even vegetables, it adds a delightful punch that elevates the flavors without overwhelming your meal. This marinade is quick and easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.

The bright notes of lime paired with the fresh herbaceous flavor of cilantro create a mouthwatering combination that complements a variety of proteins. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a marinade that enhances your cooking while keeping it clean and simple.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended.
2. Marinate: Pour the marinade over your choice of protein or vegetables, making sure to coat evenly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
3. Cook: Grill, bake, or sauté your marinated items until cooked through and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Sauce

Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Sauce brings a delightful twist to your meals with its perfect balance of heat and sweetness. This homemade version is simple to whip up, using fresh ingredients that deliver a punchy flavor without any preservatives. It’s a fantastic condiment that can elevate everything from grilled meats to vegetable stir-fries.

This sauce not only adds a kick to your dishes but also brings a touch of sweetness that makes it versatile. Whether you’re looking to spice up your tacos or add some zing to your sandwiches, this recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for anyone wanting to step up their culinary game.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh red chili peppers, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions

1. Blend the chili peppers and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped.
2. Add honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, salt, and lime juice to the processor. Blend until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
4. Let the sauce cool and then store it in a jar in the fridge. Enjoy it within two weeks for the best flavor!