9 Delicious DIY Sauces and Seasoning Recipes Free from Preservatives

Homemade sauces and seasonings can bring life to any dish, and the best part? They’re preservative-free! This collection features 9 easy DIY recipes that are packed with flavor and made from simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to elevate your meals with these tasty creations!

Fragrant Moroccan Spice Blend

This Moroccan spice blend is a delightful mix of warm, aromatic flavors that can elevate any dish. With a perfect balance of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, it brings a cozy and exotic taste to your meals. Plus, making it at home is a breeze, taking just a few minutes.

Whether you’re seasoning meats, vegetables, or grains, this blend is versatile and delicious. It’s a fantastic way to add depth to your cooking without any preservatives. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Morocco right in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

1. Combine all the spices in a bowl and mix well until evenly blended.
2. Store the spice blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
3. Use it to season your favorite dishes, such as tagines, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.

Tangy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce

This tangy tomato basil pasta sauce is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that brings a burst of taste to any dish. It’s easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal.

The combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a sauce that is both zesty and comforting. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your pasta dishes without any preservatives, ensuring you know exactly what goes into your meal. Give it a try, and you’ll find it becomes a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Sweet and Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, making it a delightful addition to various dishes. The combination of honey’s natural sweetness with mustard’s zesty bite creates a flavor that’s both unique and universally appealing.

Making this glaze is super simple, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. It’s great for slathering on grilled meats, brushing over vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce. Enjoy the taste of homemade goodness without any preservatives!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mix the honey and Dijon mustard together in a bowl until well combined.
2. Add in the apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to adjust the flavor to your liking.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Savory Garlic Parmesan Dressing

Garlic Parmesan Dressing is a delightful blend of creamy and tangy flavors, perfect for enhancing any salad. The rich taste of Parmesan cheese combined with the boldness of garlic creates a dressing that is both savory and satisfying. Making this dressing from scratch is simple, allowing you to enjoy fresh ingredients without any preservatives.

This dressing works wonderfully as a salad topper, but you can also use it as a dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a staple for anyone looking to add a kick to their meals. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can enjoy a homemade dressing any day of the week!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin, if desired)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner consistency, gradually add water until you reach your desired thickness.
3. Transfer the dressing to a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Shake well before serving and enjoy it over your favorite salads or as a dip!

Bold Asian Sesame Dressing

This Bold Asian Sesame Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors that dances on your palate. With its nutty sesame notes combined with a hint of sweetness and tang, it’s perfect for salads, marinades, or drizzling over grilled vegetables. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in just a few minutes!

You’ll find that this dressing brightens up any dish while keeping things fresh and preservative-free. It’s a great choice for those looking to enhance their meals with a burst of flavor. Say goodbye to store-bought dressings and hello to your new favorite!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
2. Add the sesame seeds and chopped green onions, stirring to incorporate.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking.
4. Transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Shake well before using and enjoy it on your favorite salads or dishes!

Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

This creamy avocado cilantro sauce is a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. It offers a fresh, zesty flavor that can elevate anything from tacos to grilled chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it a go-to sauce for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Made primarily with ripe avocados and fresh cilantro, this sauce is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Its smooth texture and vibrant color make it visually appealing, too! Whether you’re drizzling it over salads or using it as a dip, this sauce is sure to impress.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, cilantro, lime juice, Greek yogurt, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting lime juice if desired.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Sauce

This Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Sauce is a game-changer for any grilling enthusiast. It offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it a delightful addition to ribs, chicken, or even veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in your own kitchen without any preservatives.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, tangy sauce that packs a punch. The smoky chipotle peppers give it a unique twist that elevates your BBQ experience to a whole new level. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to combine all the flavors.
3. Cook: Allow the sauce to cook for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool before transferring to a jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade

This zesty lemon herb marinade is a refreshing and bright addition to your cooking repertoire. With its tangy lemon flavor and fresh herbs, it perfectly complements a variety of meats and vegetables, enhancing their natural taste. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend grilling.

The combination of citrus and herbs adds a vibrant touch to any dish, making it great for marinating chicken, fish, or even veggies before roasting. You’ll love how easy it is to create a burst of flavor right in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and honey (if using) to the bowl. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Place your choice of meat or vegetables in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, making sure to coat everything well.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
5. Remove from the marinade and cook as desired, enjoying the delicious flavors!

Warm Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee Syrup

This warm cinnamon vanilla coffee syrup adds a cozy touch to your morning brew or dessert. With its sweet and spicy notes, it transforms any cup of coffee into a delightful treat. Plus, it’s simple to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo.

The rich flavor of cinnamon combined with smooth vanilla creates a comforting blend that pairs beautifully with coffee. Use it to sweeten your favorite hot beverage or drizzle it over pancakes and waffles for a special breakfast. Enjoy the homemade goodness without any preservatives!

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and ground cinnamon over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Allow the syrup to cool before transferring it to a bottle or jar for storage.
5. Use it to sweeten coffee, drizzle over desserts, or even add to oatmeal!