Spicy Peanut Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dressing isn’t just spicy—it’s packed with layers of flavor. The nuttiness of the peanut butter balances the heat of the chili, while garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice add depth and brightness. It’s incredibly easy to whip up in just minutes using pantry staples and makes any dish feel gourmet. Whether you’re dressing a crunchy slaw, using it as a dip for spring rolls, or tossing it over noodles, this spicy peanut dressing will quickly become your go-to sauce.

Ingredients

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

• Creamy peanut butter
• Soy sauce
• Fresh lime juice
• Rice vinegar
• Maple syrup or honey
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
• Warm water (to thin, as needed)
• Sesame oil (optional, for extra depth)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, and maple syrup or honey until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Stir until well combined.
3. Slowly add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lime juice for tang, more syrup for sweetness, or more chili sauce for heat.
5. Optional: Stir in a small amount of sesame oil for extra flavor.
6. Use immediately, or refrigerate for later use.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of dressing, enough for 4–6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini for a peanut-free alternative.
• Extra Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or increase the chili sauce.
• Creamier Texture: Blend in a splash of coconut milk for a richer, creamier consistency.
• Citrus Twist: Replace lime juice with lemon or add a touch of orange juice for a sweeter citrus note.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh, herbal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The dressing may thicken as it chills—just stir in a bit of warm water to thin it out before serving. No reheating is needed, but it can be gently warmed if preferred for hot dishes.

FAQs

How spicy is this peanut dressing?

The heat level is moderate, but it’s easy to adjust. Add more or less chili sauce depending on your preference.

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a stir before using.

Is this dressing vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, it’s completely vegan.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

You can, but it will change the texture. Creamy peanut butter is recommended for smoothness.

What dishes go well with spicy peanut dressing?

It pairs wonderfully with salads, rice bowls, noodles, grilled veggies, tofu, and spring rolls.

Can I freeze this dressing?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may separate upon thawing.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce or omit the maple syrup/honey and add more lime juice for balance.

What’s the best way to thin out thick dressing?

Warm water is the best option. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Spicy Peanut Dressing is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make condiment that can transform simple dishes into something special. With its perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy elements, it’s a must-have in your kitchen. Whether you drizzle it, dip into it, or toss it with noodles, this dressing is sure to impress every time.

Spicy Peanut Dressing

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Spicy Peanut Dressing is a creamy, bold, and versatile sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime, and chili for the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. Ideal for salads, noodles, grain bowls, spring rolls, or grilled veggies.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cup (4–6 servings)
• Category: Condiment, Dressing
• Method: Whisked/Blended
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2. 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
3. 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
4. 1 tbsp rice vinegar
5. 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
6. 2 garlic cloves, minced
7. 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
8. 1–2 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (to taste)
9. 3–5 tbsp warm water (to thin)
10. 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, and maple syrup until smooth.

1. Add garlic, ginger, and sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Stir until combined.
2. Gradually whisk in warm water, 1 tbsp at a time, until dressing reaches desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lime for tang, maple syrup for sweetness, or chili sauce for heat.
4. Optional: Stir in sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate until needed.

Notes

1. Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
2. Add red pepper flakes or extra chili for more heat.
3. Blend with coconut milk for a creamier texture.
4. Swap lime for lemon or add orange juice for a citrus twist.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herb flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tbsp
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg