7 Delicious Homemade Sauces and Seasonings Without Preservatives

Homemade sauces and seasonings can make all the difference in your cooking, adding that fresh touch without any nasty preservatives. Here are seven easy DIY recipes that are simple to whip up, perfect for spicing up your meals and impressing your friends and family. Get ready to add some delicious flavor to your kitchen!

Herbed Olive Oil Dipping Sauce

Herbed Olive Oil Dipping Sauce is a simple and delightful way to elevate your bread or veggies. The blend of fresh herbs in olive oil offers a vibrant taste that’s both light and refreshing. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

This sauce combines the richness of good quality olive oil with the aromatic notes of herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano. Whether you’re dipping crusty bread or drizzling it over grilled vegetables, this sauce adds a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped herbs, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to mix.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the herbs according to your preference.
3. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve in a small dish alongside your favorite bread or use as a dressing for salads and veggies.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

If you’re looking for a BBQ sauce that packs a punch, this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce is just what you need! It combines the rich sweetness of traditional barbecue flavors with a smoky, spicy kick from chipotle peppers. Making this sauce is simple and can be done in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for your next grilling session or family gathering.

This sauce is not only easy to whip up, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding all those preservatives found in store-bought versions. Drizzle it over grilled meats, slather it on burgers, or use it as a dipping sauce for veggies. You’ll never want to go back to store-bought!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients: ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle peppers, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it starts to bubble gently.
3. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool before transferring to a jar or airtight container.
5. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Savory Garlic Aioli

Savory garlic aioli is a creamy and flavorful condiment that adds a delightful touch to a variety of dishes. With its rich garlic flavor and smooth texture, this aioli is perfect for dipping fries, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over grilled vegetables. Making it at home is simple and allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring there are no preservatives or additives.

This garlic aioli is a great way to elevate your meals and impress your friends and family. It’s easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it a go-to sauce for any occasion. Plus, fresh ingredients mean a delicious taste that store-bought versions can’t match!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well mixed.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
3. If desired, fold in chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve with your favorite dishes and enjoy!

Classic Italian Tomato Sauce

Classic Italian Tomato Sauce is a staple that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. It offers a rich, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes, balanced perfectly by fragrant herbs. Plus, it’s super simple to make, allowing anyone to whip it up in no time.

This sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza, and it’s healthier without any preservatives. Gather your fresh ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano. If you like a hint of sweetness, add sugar.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette

Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette is a fresh and zesty dressing that brings life to any salad or dish. Its tangy lime flavor pairs perfectly with the bright, herbal notes of cilantro, making it a delightful addition to your kitchen arsenal. Simple to whip up, this vinaigrette can elevate even the most basic meals.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also free from preservatives, ensuring that every bite is packed with natural goodness. Perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, tacos, or as a marinade for chicken, it’s a versatile dressing everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Blend again to combine.
3. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Shake well before serving. Enjoy over salads, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce!

Sweet and Spicy Mango Chutney

Sweet and spicy mango chutney combines the lusciousness of ripe mangoes with a kick of heat, creating a delightful balance that pairs perfectly with various dishes. This homemade version is easy to whip up and contains no preservatives, making it a healthy option to elevate your meals.

The sweetness from the mangoes, combined with the tanginess of vinegar and the spice from chilies, creates a burst of flavor that excites the palate. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, using it as a dip, or simply spreading it on your favorite bread, it’s a versatile condiment you’ll love.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the diced mangoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chopped onion, green chilies, grated ginger, mustard seeds, cinnamon, turmeric, and salt.
2. Cook Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mangoes break down and the chutney thickens.
3. Cool and Store: Once thickened, remove from heat and let the chutney cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a sterilized jar and store in the refrigerator.

Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade

The Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade is a refreshing blend that brings a lively zing to any dish. With its bright citrus notes and fragrant herbs, this marinade enhances grilled meats, vegetables, and seafood, making everything taste vibrant and delicious. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

This marinade strikes a perfect balance between tangy and savory. Whether you’re marinating chicken for a summer barbecue or tossing it with roasted veggies, the flavor is sure to impress. It’s a wonderful way to infuse your meals with fresh, homemade goodness without any preservatives.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place your choice of protein or vegetables in a resealable bag or dish, then pour the marinade over the top.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Grill or roast as desired, enjoying the fresh, zesty taste!