Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for your vegan lifestyle? Look no further! These 18 creamy vegan sauce recipes will take your dishes to the next level, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen. From rich and indulgent Alfredo sauces to tangy and refreshing dressings, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Start with our Creamy Cashew Alfredo Sauce, a game-changing vegan twist on the classic Italian dish. Or try our Vegan Garlic Tahini Sauce for a bold and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta or as a dip. And don’t even get us started on the Spicy Peanut Satay Sauce – it’s a flavorful explosion waiting to happen!
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 18 delicious sauces, exploring their ingredients, preparation methods, and uses in various dishes. Whether you’re looking for a creamy pasta sauce or a tangy salad dressing, we’ve got you covered.
Creamy Cashew Alfredo Sauce
This recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers! This creamy sauce uses cashews as the base, making it dairy-free and vegan-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and indulgent sauce that’s perfect for topping your favorite pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup nutritional yeast (available at health food stores or online)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
5. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vegan Garlic Tahini Sauce
Elevate your plant-based dishes with this creamy and aromatic sauce, perfect for dipping, spreading, or using as a condiment. This vegan garlic tahini sauce is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, water, garlic, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add paprika or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
4. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (mostly blending time)
Spicy Peanut Satay Sauce
Elevate your satay game with this creamy and spicy peanut sauce that’s perfect for dipping, marinating, or serving as a condiment. This flavorful sauce combines the richness of peanuts with a kick of chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight away.
Avocado Lime Crema
This creamy dip is a perfect blend of rich avocado and zesty lime, ideal for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With its vibrant green color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add lime juice, yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This crema is best served chilled.
Roasted Red Pepper Romesco
Roasted Red Pepper Romesco Recipe
A flavorful and vibrant Spanish-inspired dip that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a side dish. This Roasted Red Pepper Romesco recipe is a game-changer, with its smoky sweetness and tangy zest.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup almonds
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup garlic cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool down.
4. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the peppers into small pieces.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted peppers, almonds, pumpkin seeds, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
7. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Vegan Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your plant-based meals with this rich and savory vegan mushroom gravy, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, vegetable broth, flour, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Silky Coconut Curry Sauce
A creamy and aromatic curry sauce that’s perfect for serving with noodles, rice, or as a dip. This recipe is quick to make and can be adjusted to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, curry powder, honey, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Add garlic and lime juice. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Aioli
Elevate your game-day snacks or grilled meats with this creamy and smoky dip. This Spicy-Sweet fusion combines the richness of aioli with the deep, smoky flavor of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, lime juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to create a delicious and vibrant pesto perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Add the fresh basil leaves and process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Easy Vegan Cheese Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes, mac and cheese, or nachos with this creamy and delicious vegan cheese sauce. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon nutritional yeast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and nutritional yeast.
3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. With the blender still running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
5. Continue blending until well combined and emulsified.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon-Dill Cashew Dressing
Elevate your salads with this tangy and creamy dressing, bursting with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then blend with lemon juice, olive oil, dill, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Sweet Miso Tahini Drizzle
Sweet Miso Tahini Drizzle Recipe
Elevate your snack or dessert game with this rich and creamy sweet miso tahini drizzle, perfect for topping fruits, waffles, or even savory dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, and miso paste until smooth.
2. Add water and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Drizzle over desired treats or use as a dip for fruits or crackers.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Vegan Béchamel Sauce
A classic French white sauce gets a plant-based twist with this simple recipe. This creamy and rich sauce is perfect for vegans who want to enjoy the flavors of traditional cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup vegan butter or margarine (such as Earth Balance)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy, almond, or cashew milk)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, nutritional yeast for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the non-dairy milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast (if using).
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Almond Ricotta Spread
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, herby spread made with ricotta cheese, almonds, and fresh herbs. Perfect for crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in sliced almonds and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Tangy BBQ Jackfruit Sauce
Elevate your BBQ game with this tangy and sweet jackfruit sauce, perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine jackfruit, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the level of tanginess to your liking by adding more or less apple cider vinegar.
– Use this sauce as a marinade for up to 24 hours before grilling or roasting.
Turmeric-Tahini Golden Sauce
This creamy and aromatic sauce is a game-changer for any dish. With the warmth of turmeric and the richness of tahini, it’s perfect for marinating meats, serving as a dip, or using as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the water.
4. Continue blending for another 10-15 seconds, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time at all. Simply blend and serve.
Caramelized Onion Gravy
Transform the flavor of your dish with this rich and savory caramelized onion gravy, perfect for accompanying roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. This recipe is a game-changer for elevating your meals to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and caramelized.
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in beef broth and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your liking.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing and flavorful dressing! This Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing is perfect for those looking for a tangy and herby flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Summary
Discover the creamiest and most delicious vegan sauce recipes to elevate your dishes. From classic Alfredo to bold Satay, this collection of 18 creamy sauces offers something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking to add richness to pasta, veggies, or even pizza, these dairy-free alternatives are sure to impress. With flavors ranging from tangy BBQ to sweet miso, there’s a sauce here to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to take your cooking to the next level with these mouthwatering and easy-to-make vegan sauce recipes!
