Vegan Peanut Sauce – Quick & Easy Recipe
This savory peanut sauce is an easy, flavorful vegan condiment perfect for spring rolls, noodles, salads, and roasted vegetables. Made with creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, this peanut sauce recipe comes together in just minutes and keeps well in the fridge.
As a registered dietitian, I love creating sauces that are both delicious and nourishing. This vegan peanut sauce is rich in healthy fats and plant-based protein, making it versatile for meals, snacks, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Sauce
Quick and easy – ready in 5 minutes
Perfect for spring rolls, noodles, or roasted veggies
Creamy, savory, and naturally plant-based
Vegan, gluten-free, and healthy
Ingredients for Savory Peanut Sauce
Peanut butter – creamy, protein-packed base
Soy sauce or tamari – adds umami flavor
Garlic and ginger – aromatic and flavorful
Lime juice or rice vinegar – balances sweetness
Maple syrup or honey – optional natural sweetener
Water – to adjust consistency
How to Make Savory Peanut Sauce
Step-by-step instructions:
Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
Gradually add warm water until desired sauce consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust seasoning: more lime for acidity, more sweetener for balance.
Serve with spring rolls, noodle bowls, salads, or roasted vegetables.
Dietitian Tips for Peanut Sauce
Add powdered peanut protein for extra protein. Though you may have to thin it out with water.
Use low-sodium soy sauce for a heart-healthier option
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week
Serve warm or cold, depending on your dish
Variations to Try
Spicy peanut sauce: add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili paste
Thai-style: mix in coconut milk and lime zest
Nut-free version: substitute sunflower seed or almond butter
Peanut Sauce FAQ
How long does peanut sauce last?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Can I make this sauce gluten-free?: Yes! Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
How do I thin peanut sauce?: Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
What if I can’t find hoisin sauce?: Go for 2 tablespoons of reduced sodium soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of agave.
Why use agave?: It’s simple. I wanted to use agave. You are welcome to use honey instead if you prefer.
I can’t handle spice, can I leave out the Sambal Oelek?: Yep, you can. I’m sure the sauce will taste just as good!
Savory Peanut Sauce
This Savory Peanut Sauce is literally my favorite dipping sauce recipe. I don’t know why or what made me obsessed with this, but I am, and I think you will too!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (I used Kikkoman Hoisin Sauce, 9.40 Oz)
- 1 tbsp Tamari sauce (50% reduced sodium) (or you can use reduced sodium soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp blue agave syrup
- 1 tsp sambal oelek (chili paste) (or 1 tsp red pepper flakes)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (aim for a brand that is sodium-free)
- 4 tbsp water (adjust to desired thinness)
- 1 inch ginger, minced or grated
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a medium sized bowl, and whisk until smooth. Start of stirring to incorporate the ingredients, then as liquid dissolves, whisk until smooth. This prevents splashing.
- Then serve with desired meal.