Rich, nutty peanut butter meets fresh lime, ginger, and toasted sesame in this irresistibly creamy sauce. A little sweet, a little tangy, and just the right amount of spice, it's delicious drizzled over Asian-inspired bowls, grilled chicken, noodles, or crunchy vegetables.
MAKES
8 SERVINGS (2 TABLESPOONS EACH)
QUICK RECIPE OVERVIEW
Why you’ll love it
A flavorful, homemade sauce that comes together in minutes with simple pantry ingredients. It's an easy way to transform everyday vegetables, proteins, and grains into something special.
What Makes It So Flavorful?
Creamy peanut butter brings richness, while fresh lime and rice vinegar add a lively tang. Ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame oil create savory depth, with a touch of honey balancing the flavors.
Helpful Tips
Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor. Add warm water gradually while whisking to create a smooth, pourable sauce without making it too thin.
Creamy Peanut-Lime Sauce
NUTTY · ZESTY · SAVORY
ABOUT 8 SERVINGS | PREP 10 MINUTES | NONE
Ingredients:
¼ cup natural creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons low-sodium gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 garlic clove, finely minced
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2–4 tablespoons warm water, as needed to thin
Method:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, tamari or coconut aminos, lime juice, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Gradually whisk in warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Adjust the lime juice for tang, honey for sweetness, or red pepper flakes for heat. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Recipe Notes
Peanut Butter: Choose natural, unsweetened creamy peanut butter with minimal ingredients. Stir well before measuring if the natural oils have separated.
Tamari or Coconut Aminos: Gluten-free tamari adds a deeper, saltier flavor, while coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter, milder alternative. Adjust the sweetness as needed.
Adjust the Heat: Start with ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a milder sauce, or add more for a spicy kick.
Serving Ideas: Delicious over Asian-inspired chicken or tofu bowls, rice noodles, shredded cabbage salads, roasted broccoli, or grilled chicken skewers.
Dressing Variation: Add a little extra warm water or lime juice for a thinner consistency that's easy to drizzle over salads and grain bowls.
Meal Prep: Prepare ahead and keep refrigerated in a separate container. The sauce will naturally thicken as it chills, so stir in a little warm water before serving.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight glass jar for up to 4–5 days. Stir well before using.
