12 Easy DIY Sauce and Seasoning Recipes for Busy Cooks

Busy schedules shouldn’t keep you from enjoying delicious meals. This collection of 12 quick DIY sauce and seasoning recipes is perfect for anyone looking to add a little flair to their cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll whip up fresh, homemade flavors in no time!

Zesty Lemon Herb Dressing

This zesty lemon herb dressing is a refreshing addition to any meal, bringing brightness and flavor without much effort. With its tangy notes and fresh herb infusion, it’s perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade for meats.

Making this dressing is super simple and takes just a few minutes. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch and store it for those busy weeknight dinners or a quick lunch. Let’s get right into the ingredients and instructions!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using) in a bowl. Whisk until well mixed.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
3. Add the chopped parsley and chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
4. Transfer the dressing to a jar and store in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use.

Savory Taco Seasoning Mix

This savory taco seasoning mix is a quick and easy way to bring bold flavors to your meals. With a perfect blend of spices, it adds a kick to anything from meats to vegetables, making it a staple in busy kitchens.

Making your own taco seasoning is not only simple but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch and store it for future use.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients until well mixed.
2. Store the seasoning in an airtight container for up to six months.
3. To use, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix to your cooked meat or vegetables, along with 1/2 cup of water. Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld.

Tangy Mustard Vinaigrette

This Tangy Mustard Vinaigrette is a fresh and zesty dressing that brings a burst of flavor to any salad or dish. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy cooks who want a quick and delicious addition to their meals.

The combination of mustard and vinegar gives it a delightful tang, while a hint of sweetness balances the flavors. You’ll love how easily it enhances greens, roasted vegetables, or even grilled meats!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar until fully combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, creating an emulsified dressing.
3. Add honey or maple syrup and mix well to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.

Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh basil pesto is a vibrant, aromatic sauce that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. With its bright green color and rich, herbal notes, it’s a fantastic addition to pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip. Making pesto is a breeze, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time.

The combination of fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and cheese creates a delightful taste that pairs well with many meals. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra basil from your garden or the grocery store. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the basil leaves thoroughly. Pat them dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
3. Add the Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides to ensure everything blends well.
4. Season: Taste your pesto and add salt and pepper as needed. Blend again to combine.
5. Store or Serve: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Sweet and Spicy Asian Glaze

This Sweet and Spicy Asian Glaze is a delightful mix of flavors that brings a touch of excitement to any dish. It balances sweetness and heat, making it perfect for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Best of all, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can enjoy gourmet taste without spending hours in the kitchen.

The glaze is not just versatile but also enhances the natural flavors of your favorite proteins or veggies. Whether you’re using it as a marinade or a finishing touch, this glaze will elevate your meals effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickness)
• 1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Thicken the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl and then stir it into the sauce mixture.
3. Cook the Glaze: Pour the mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.
4. Use or Store: Let the glaze cool before using it as a marinade or drizzle it over cooked dishes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce is the perfect blend of bold flavors that brings a kick to your grilled meats and veggies. This sauce combines the rich smokiness of chipotle peppers with a hint of sweetness, making it a standout choice for any barbecue. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!

Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, burgers, or even roasted corn, this sauce will elevate your dishes in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade BBQ sauce that outshines store-bought options. Let’s get cooking!

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 garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over medium heat.
2. Add the minced chipotle peppers, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool before using.
5. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce

Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce is a classic favorite that brings a rich and indulgent flavor to any dish. It’s smooth, cheesy, and has a delightful garlic kick that perfectly complements pasta, vegetables, or even grilled meats. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners.

This sauce combines just a few simple ingredients to create a luscious coating for your favorite pasta. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it elevates even the simplest meals into something special. Plus, you can have this ready in about 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally.
3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and toss with your favorite pasta or use as a sauce for vegetables or proteins. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Classic Tomato Marinara Sauce

Tomato marinara sauce is a kitchen staple that adds a burst of flavor to countless dishes. This sauce is rich and tangy, making it perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make!

With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Homemade marinara not only tastes better than store-bought options but also allows you to control the ingredients. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a 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 crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Herbed yogurt sauce is a refreshing and tangy addition to any meal. It offers a delightful balance of creaminess and herbal notes that can elevate simple dishes into something special. This sauce is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

The combination of yogurt and fresh herbs creates a light yet flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for your favorite snacks. With just a few ingredients and a little mixing, you’ll have a versatile sauce ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, and chives), finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Add the chopped herbs and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve as a dipping sauce, a topping for grilled meats, or a spread for wraps.

Spicy Buffalo Sauce

This Spicy Buffalo Sauce is the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making it a must-have for wing lovers and anyone who enjoys a bit of a kick in their dishes. It’s simple to whip up and can easily elevate everything from chicken wings to veggies, making them irresistible.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that packs a punch. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this sauce is quick and easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and well mixed with the sauce.
2. Add the white vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste. Let it cool slightly before using.
5. This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Savory Garlic Herb Butter

This savory garlic herb butter is a quick and easy way to elevate your meals. With a delightful mix of garlic and fresh herbs, it adds a rich flavor that complements everything from grilled meats to vegetables and bread. Plus, it’s super simple to make!

You just need a few ingredients and a few minutes of your time. Once prepared, you can slather it on anything you like or use it as a cooking base to infuse your dishes with incredible taste. It’s a must-have for busy cooks looking to add a punch of flavor to everyday meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, using a fork or spatula.
3. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a log.
4. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
5. Slice into rounds and use as desired on meats, veggies, or bread.

Cilantro Lime Dressing

Cilantro lime dressing is a fresh and zesty sauce perfect for drizzling on salads, tacos, or grilled meats. With its bright citrus notes and the herbaceous flavor of cilantro, it adds a lively kick to any dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes!

This dressing combines the freshness of lime juice with creamy elements, making it both light and satisfying. It’s a great way to elevate your meals without spending much time in the kitchen. Enjoy it as a tangy finish to your favorite dishes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Olive Oil: While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice or honey to suit your taste.
4. Serve: Transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Shake well before serving.