16 Delicious Vegan Sauce Recipes for Every Dish

Perfect for spicing up any meal, our collection of 16 Delicious Vegan Sauce Recipes is a game-changer for home cooks across North America. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, these sauces promise to add a burst of flavor to every dish. Dive in and discover your next favorite topping, drizzle, or dip that’ll keep everyone asking for seconds!

Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing

Here’s how to whip up a Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing that’s both vibrant and versatile. Perfect for salads, tacos, or as a dip, this dressing comes together in minutes.

Ingredients

– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted (use Hass for creaminess)
– 1/4 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt works too)
– 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (stems are fine)
– 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
– 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup water (to thin as needed)

Instructions

1. Scoop the avocado flesh into a blender.
2. Add sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend on high until smooth, about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides if needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly add water until desired consistency is reached.
5. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed.
6. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Yield a silky, tangy dressing with a hint of garlic and cilantro. Drizzle over grilled chicken or use as a zesty salad topper for an instant flavor boost.

Spicy Tahini Sauce

Unlock the secret to elevating your dishes with this Spicy Tahini Sauce. It’s bold, creamy, and packs a punch.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup tahini (stir well before using)
• 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced finely)
• 1 tsp cumin (toasted for extra aroma)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more for extra heat)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine tahini and water. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add lemon juice and olive oil. Continue whisking to incorporate.
3. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
4. Let the sauce sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Tip: For a thinner sauce, add water 1 tbsp at a time.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl. Tip: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin before serving for extra flair.

Makes about 1 cup. The sauce is creamy with a nutty depth and a spicy kick. Perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables or as a bold salad dressing.

Classic Vegan Alfredo Sauce

Make this Classic Vegan Alfredo Sauce when you crave creamy pasta without the dairy. It’s rich, smooth, and ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 15 minutes (for creaminess)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh for brightness)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)

Instructions

1. Drain soaked cashews and add to a blender.
2. Pour in almond milk, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth. Tip: Scrape down sides as needed.
4. Transfer sauce to a saucepan over medium heat. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
5. Cook for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Tip: Sauce will thicken more upon cooling.
6. Remove from heat and use immediately over pasta.

Yields a velvety sauce with a nutty, cheesy flavor. Try it with fettuccine and a sprinkle of parsley for a classic touch.

Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Zesty and vibrant, this roasted red pepper sauce transforms simple ingredients into a bold condiment. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip, it’s a versatile addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large red bell peppers (halved and seeded)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (adds depth)
• 1/4 cup water (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place pepper halves skin-side up on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until skins are charred and peppers are soft.
4. Transfer peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. This makes peeling easier.
5. Peel the skins off the peppers and discard.
6. In a blender, combine peeled peppers, garlic, salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
7. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Ultra-smooth with a smoky sweetness, this sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or stirred into risotto. Try it as a base for pizza for an unexpected twist.

Easy Vegan Hollandaise Sauce

Zesty and smooth, this vegan hollandaise sauce transforms breakfast in minutes. No eggs, no fuss, just creamy goodness.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 15 minutes)
• 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (for color, optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for depth)
• 1/4 tsp onion powder (for depth)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)

Instructions

1. Drain soaked cashews and add to a high-speed blender.
2. Add water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to the blender.
3. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in olive oil to emulsify the sauce.
5. Transfer sauce to a small saucepan and warm over low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until heated through.

Heavenly creamy with a tangy kick, this sauce clings perfectly to steamed veggies or tofu scrambles. Try it drizzled over roasted asparagus for a simple, elegant side.

Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce

Savory and smooth, this Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce transforms simple dishes into creamy delights. Perfect for pasta, veggies, or as a dip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or overnight for creaminess)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, adjust for intensity)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
• 1/2 cup water (more for thinner consistency)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)

Instructions

1. Drain soaked cashews and rinse under cold water.
2. Combine cashews, garlic, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper in a blender.
3. Blend on high for 2 minutes until completely smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
4. For a thinner sauce, add water 1 tbsp at a time, blending after each addition.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Whisk this sauce into hot pasta for instant creaminess or drizzle over roasted vegetables. The garlic adds a punch, while the cashews ensure a luxuriously smooth texture.

Smoky BBQ Sauce

Make your BBQ stand out with this smoky BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for ribs, chicken, or burgers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup (use a brand you like for best flavor)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed, for sweetness)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (deepens flavor)
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika (key for smokiness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
• 1 tsp onion powder (adds depth)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove from heat. Let cool for 10 minutes before using or storing.

Here’s a sauce that’s thick, rich, and packed with smoky sweetness. Try it as a glaze for grilled vegetables or mix into pulled pork for extra flavor.

Thai Peanut Sauce

Overwhelmed by takeout menus? This Thai Peanut Sauce is your homemade solution. Bold flavors meet simplicity in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1 tbsp honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 1 tsp grated ginger (fresh adds zing)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more for heat)
• 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Tip: Use a whisk for smoother blending.
2. Gradually add water, 1 tbsp at a time, whisking after each addition until sauce reaches your preferred thickness. Tip: Sauce thickens upon standing; thin with more water if needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or honey as desired. Tip: For a creamier texture, blend all ingredients in a food processor.

Makes about 1 cup of sauce. The texture is luxuriously creamy with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. Drizzle over grilled chicken or stir into noodles for an instant upgrade.

Rich Mushroom Gravy

Great for topping mashed potatoes or roasted meats, this Rich Mushroom Gravy is a savory, umami-packed addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter (or any neutral oil)
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work well)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth (adjust saltiness to taste)
• 1 tsp soy sauce (for depth, optional)
• 1/2 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
• Salt and pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until foaming subsides.
2. Add mushrooms and onion. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually whisk in broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
6. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Yield a velvety, deeply flavored gravy with chunks of mushrooms. Try it over biscuits for a comforting twist.

Sweet Mango Habanero Sauce

Looking for a bold, sweet, and spicy condiment to elevate your dishes? This Sweet Mango Habanero Sauce combines ripe mangoes with fiery habaneros for a perfect balance.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced ripe mango (about 2 large mangoes)
• 4 habanero peppers, stemmed and seeded (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Combine mango, habaneros, vinegar, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt in a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute. Tip: For a smoother sauce, strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
3. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Tip: The flavors will meld and intensify as it cools.
6. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Fabulously versatile, this sauce boasts a smooth texture with a kick. Drizzle over grilled chicken or mix into mayo for a spicy sandwich spread.

Herbed Vegan Pesto

Absolutely anyone can whip up this vibrant Herbed Vegan Pesto in minutes. It’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed, stems removed)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (stems removed)
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (toasted for extra flavor)
• 2 garlic cloves (peeled)
• 1/2 cup olive oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
2. Combine basil, parsley, toasted pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse 5 times to roughly chop.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Process for 10 seconds to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Silky smooth with a nutty depth, this pesto shines on warm pasta or as a bold spread for avocado toast. Try swirling it into soups for an herby kick.

Tangy Mustard Maple Sauce

Zesty flavors come together in this Tangy Mustard Maple Sauce, perfect for elevating any dish from bland to grand. Quick to whip up, it’s a versatile condiment that pairs well with meats, sandwiches, or as a unique salad dressing.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard (smooth or grainy for texture)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for a tangy kick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (fresh minced garlic works too)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (adds depth)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine Dijon mustard and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add apple cider vinegar and olive oil to the mixture. Whisk vigorously to emulsify.
3. Sprinkle in garlic powder and smoked paprika. Stir to incorporate all spices evenly.
4. Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend all ingredients for 30 seconds.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more maple syrup or vinegar if needed. Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Delightfully balanced, this sauce offers a creamy texture with a punch of tang and sweetness. Drizzle over grilled chicken or use as a bold dipping sauce for roasted veggies.

Creamy Vegan Cheese Sauce

Make this creamy vegan cheese sauce in minutes with simple ingredients. Perfect for nachos, pasta, or as a dip.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
• 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh for best taste)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp turmeric (for color, optional)

Instructions

1. Drain soaked cashews and add to a high-speed blender.
2. Add water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and turmeric to the blender.
3. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth. Scrape down sides as needed.
4. For a warmer sauce, transfer to a small saucepan and heat over low for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Adjust thickness with more water if needed, blending or stirring to combine.

Creates a velvety, rich sauce with a tangy, cheesy flavor. Try it drizzled over roasted vegetables or stirred into macaroni for a dairy-free twist.

Fresh Tomato Basil Sauce

Unlock the essence of summer with this vibrant Fresh Tomato Basil Sauce, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping companion.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (chopped, for richer flavor)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn, for more aroma)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (about 2 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic, sauté until fragrant (30 seconds, avoid browning).
3. Stir in chopped tomatoes, cook until they start to break down (5 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper, simmer on low heat for 15 minutes (stir occasionally).
5. Remove from heat, fold in torn basil leaves (reserve some for garnish).

Silky with a chunky texture, this sauce bursts with fresh tomato sweetness balanced by garlic and basil. Try it over grilled chicken or stirred into risotto for a twist.

Zesty Lemon Dill Sauce

Unleash a burst of freshness with this Zesty Lemon Dill Sauce, perfect for elevating grilled dishes or as a vibrant dip.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (for extra zing)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder to the bowl. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, give the sauce a quick stir. Adjust lemon juice or dill if desired.

Creamy with a tangy kick, this sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon or as a refreshing dip for vegetables. Its bright flavor also makes it a great spread for sandwiches.

Velvety Vegan Béchamel Sauce

Kickstart your vegan cooking with this Velvety Vegan Béchamel Sauce, a creamy, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on richness or flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (adjust thickness with more or less)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated for best flavor)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add almond milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes, stirring often.
5. Stir in salt and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Delightfully smooth and versatile, this sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, lasagna, or as a base for creamy soups. Its subtle nutmeg undertone elevates any dish.

Conclusion

Delightful as they are diverse, these 16 vegan sauce recipes promise to elevate any dish with their rich flavors and simple preparations. Whether you’re drizzling, dipping, or dolloping, there’s a sauce here to match your meal and mood. We’d love to hear which recipes become your kitchen staples—drop a comment below! And if you found this roundup helpful, why not share the love? Pin it on Pinterest for fellow foodies to discover!