10 Simple DIY Sauces and Seasonings to Make at Home

If you’re tired of store-bought sauces and seasonings loaded with preservatives, you’re in the right spot! Here are 10 easy DIY recipes that you can whip up at home using simple ingredients. These sauces and seasonings not only taste great but also keep things fresh and healthy. Let’s get cooking!

Savory Garlic Parmesan Seasoning

This Savory Garlic Parmesan Seasoning is a delightful blend that packs a punch of flavor. It combines the rich, nutty tastes of Parmesan cheese with the aromatic goodness of garlic, making it a fantastic addition to many dishes. Simple to whip up, this seasoning elevates everything from popcorn to pasta, ensuring your meals are never dull.

With just a few ingredients, you can create your own batch at home, free from preservatives. It’s a great way to enhance your cooking without relying on store-bought mixes. Enjoy rediscovering your favorite dishes with this tasty seasoning!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
4. Use it to sprinkle on your favorite dishes or as a coating for roasted vegetables.

Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

This creamy avocado cilantro sauce is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that can elevate any dish. It’s smooth, zesty, and packed with the vibrant taste of cilantro and lime. Whipping it up is a breeze, making it a perfect addition to tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip for veggies.

Not only is this sauce refreshing, but it’s also free from preservatives, ensuring you’re indulging in something wholesome. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy sauce that’s both delicious and versatile.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Sweet and Spicy Honey Mustard

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Mustard is a delightful blend of flavors that’ll brighten up any meal. It combines the sweetness of honey with the tangy and spicy notes of mustard, making it a versatile sauce perfect for dipping, drizzling, or marinating.

Making this sauce is a breeze and takes just a few minutes. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a fresh condiment without any preservatives. It pairs wonderfully with chicken, pretzels, or drizzled over salads for that extra zing!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine honey and Dijon mustard. Stir until well blended.
2. Add apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if you prefer more heat or sweetness.
4. Transfer the sauce to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Enjoy your homemade Sweet and Spicy Honey Mustard with your favorite dishes!

Classic Italian Herb Blend

If you’re looking for a way to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, making a classic Italian herb blend is a fantastic choice. This mix is bursting with flavors like basil, oregano, and thyme, making it perfect for enhancing pasta dishes, marinades, and roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!

Creating your own herb blend means you avoid preservatives and get to customize the ratio of your favorite herbs. This blend not only adds depth to your meals but also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Let’s get started on this simple yet flavorful recipe!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Combine all the dried herbs and spices in a bowl.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Transfer the blend to an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place.
4. Use as needed to season your favorite dishes.

Tangy Buffalo Wing Sauce

Tangy Buffalo Wing Sauce is a must-have for any game day or casual get-together. Its zesty flavor strikes a perfect balance between heat and taste, delivering a delightful kick that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in your own kitchen!

This sauce can transform ordinary chicken wings into a crowd-pleaser in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a fresh and flavorful sauce that’s free from preservatives. It’s perfect for dipping, tossing, or drizzling over your favorite dishes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once melted, add the hot sauce, white vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.

Zesty Lemon Herb Dressing

This zesty lemon herb dressing is a refreshing addition to any meal. Bursting with citrus flavor and herbal notes, it perfectly complements salads, grilled vegetables, and even fish. Simple to whip up, it’s a quick way to elevate your dishes without any preservatives.

The cool, tangy taste of lemon combined with fresh herbs creates a vibrant dressing that’s both healthy and delicious. In just a few minutes, you can create a homemade dressing that adds brightness to your table and makes every bite a joy.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, and basil. Stir to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
4. Transfer the dressing to a jar or container with a tight lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Shake well before serving. Use over salads or as a marinade for grilled dishes.

Homemade Tomato Basil Marinara

This homemade tomato basil marinara sauce is a delightful blend of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and garlic. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce. Simple to prepare, it captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking with just a few ingredients, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The taste is both fresh and comforting, with the sweetness of tomatoes balanced by the fragrant basil and the zing of garlic. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this sauce, and without preservatives, you can feel good about what you’re serving.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes along with sugar, salt, and pepper. If using canned tomatoes, crush them as you add them to the pan.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh basil and balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before blending if you prefer a smoother sauce.
7. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, or store in the fridge for later use.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce is a perfect blend of heat and flavor, making it a great companion for grilled meats or vegetables. It brings a rich smokiness and a touch of sweetness that elevates any dish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up at home without any preservatives.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that packs a punch. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking to spice up weeknight dinners, this sauce will quickly become a favorite. Here’s how to make your own!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced chipotle peppers, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Cook the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the flavors meld together.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If you like it spicier, add more chipotle peppers.
4. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer to a jar or container and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Rich Teriyaki Glaze

Rich teriyaki glaze brings a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors to any dish. This homemade version is not only easy to whip up, but it also avoids the preservatives found in store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a glaze that enhances meats, vegetables, and even tofu.

The beauty of this glaze lies in its versatility. Whether you’re grilling chicken, stir-frying vegetables, or marinating shrimp, this teriyaki sauce will add a mouthwatering touch to your meal. It’s a quick and simple recipe that anyone can master!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and continue to cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using. Drizzle over grilled meats or vegetables, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Warm Cinnamon Sugar Mix

This warm cinnamon sugar mix brings a delightful sweetness and cozy flavor that can transform any dish into a comforting treat. The combination of cinnamon and sugar is simple yet incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for sprinkling over toast, baked goods, or even your morning coffee.

Making this mix at home is a breeze, and you can customize the sweetness to your liking. It’s a great way to avoid preservatives while enjoying a classic flavor. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen and instantly lift your spirits!

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended.
2. If using, stir in the vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.
3. Store the mixture in an airtight container for up to a month.
4. Use it to sprinkle on toast, pancakes, or even incorporate it into baking recipes!