Peanut Dressing

Peanut Dressing is a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce made with peanut butter, fresh lime juice, and savory seasonings. Perfect for salads, grain bowls, noodles, or as a dip for veggies, this versatile dressing brings a delicious Southeast Asian-inspired flavor to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor
• Quick and easy to make in minutes
• Great on salads, noodles, and grilled meats
• Naturally gluten-free and easily made vegan
• Stores well for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Creamy peanut butter
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Fresh lime juice
• Rice vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic (minced or grated)
• Fresh ginger (optional, grated)
• Water (to thin to desired consistency)
• Optional: sesame oil, chili flakes, or sriracha for added flavor

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and ginger (if using).
2. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lime for tang, sweetener for balance, or chili flakes for heat.
4. Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 1 cup
• Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of sesame oil for depth
• Use tahini in place of peanut butter for a twist
• Swap lime juice with lemon or even orange juice
• Add sriracha or red curry paste for extra spice
• Stir in coconut milk for a Thai-style peanut sauce

Storage/Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator in an airtight jar for up to 1 week
• Stir before each use if separation occurs
• Not ideal for freezing due to texture change

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.

Is peanut dressing vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup or another vegan sweetener and tamari instead of soy sauce.

How do I thin the dressing?

Just whisk in more warm water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely—add chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to taste.

What’s it best served with?

Great on salads, noodles, grilled chicken, satay, or as a veggie dip.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

You can, though creamy is easier to blend and creates a smoother dressing.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Can I blend instead of whisk?

Yes, a blender or food processor works well for a smoother texture.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?

Yes, but lime gives it a more traditional Southeast Asian flavor.

What if my dressing is too thick?

Add warm water or coconut milk, a tablespoon at a time, and whisk until smooth.

Conclusion

Peanut Dressing is a delicious, creamy addition to your kitchen that brings bold flavor and versatility to countless dishes. Whether drizzled over a salad, tossed with noodles, or served as a dip, this quick and easy recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.

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