Ah, the joys of a delicious dressing. It’s hard to imagine a salad or bowl of noodles that doesn’t benefit from a rich sauce. One of my latest discoveries has been Panera’s Peanut Dressing, a thick and delightful concoction that makes every meal feel like a gourmet experience.
But don’t just take my word for it; let’s dive into how you can create this incredible dressing at home, pair it creatively, and explore its many possibilities.
What to Pair With This Delightful Dressing
Now, let’s get into the fun part—pairing this dressing. You might think it only works on salads, but oh, it’s so much more than that!
Picture a bright, fresh salad full of mixed greens, shredded cabbage, and carrots drizzled with this dressing, making each bite a treasure.
But wait, there’s more. Use it to elevate a grain bowl, mixing cooked quinoa or brown rice with diced bell peppers and avocado. The dressing also turns a simple cold noodle dish into a delightful Asian-inspired feast.
If you’re hosting a get-together, consider using it as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls or grilled chicken skewers. The possibilities are endless!
You will also like the following Sauce recipes!
Why This Recipe Is Great for You
One of the reasons I love this recipe is its simplicity and bright flavor. As a registered dietitian, I value nutritious meals. This dressing is packed with natural ingredients that bring countless benefits without any artificial preservatives or complicated steps.
Plus, peanut butter brings a dose of healthy fats, while the fresh garlic and ginger give it an immunity boost that we all appreciate, especially during cold season.
I’ve experimented with these ingredients countless times, adjusting combinations to see what works.
The balance of sweet, salty, and spicy is perfection. Whether you drizzle it or toss it, everyone will enjoy every bite. Trust me, I’ve served it to picky eaters, and even they couldn’t resist asking for seconds.
Ingredients List
Let’s get started on our culinary adventure! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fantastic dressing:
- 2 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp filtered water
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp sambal oelek
- 2 tsp finely chopped garlic
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp raw honey
Now that we have our ingredients assembled, let’s transform them into something delicious.
How to Make Panera Peanut Dressing
Step 1: Combine the Liquid Ingredients
Start by gathering a mixing bowl. In it, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice, apple cider vinegar, dark soy sauce, and filtered water. Use a whisk to blend these together smoothly. The acidity of the lime and vinegar plays a vital role in balancing the richness of the peanut butter.
Step 2: Mix in the Peanut Butter and Sweeteners
Next, let’s add the natural peanut butter and maple syrup. Stir well until everything is completely blended. This step is crucial because you want an even consistency throughout the dressing.
The peanut butter not only adds creaminess but also brings protein to the mix.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Now, it’s time to add some flavor. Incorporate the sambal oelek, finely chopped garlic, ground cumin, and fresh grated ginger. Each of these ingredients contributes its own unique flair, blending beautifully with the base we’ve created.
Stir well to ensure all the flavors are incorporated.
Step 4: Finish with the Oils
Finally, drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and raw honey, stirring one last time. The sesame oil will give the dressing a slightly nutty aroma, elevating the overall taste. The honey adds just the right note of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency as Needed
Once everything is combined, taste the dressing. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash more water until you achieve your desired consistency. Adjust the sweetness or heat to your liking by adding more honey or sambal oelek. Don’t be shy! Experimentation is part of the fun.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Your Panera Peanut Dressing is now ready! You can serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It tends to thicken a bit when chilled, so give it a good stir and add a bit of water if necessary before serving.
Recipe Notes
Let’s break down the ingredients a bit more.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish. You can substitute lemon juice if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This is a powerhouse of flavor and also known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion.
- Dark Soy Sauce: Differing from regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce brings a slight sweetness and thicker consistency, contributing to the overall depth of flavor.
- Natural Peanut Butter: Choose a brand without added sugar or oils for the healthiest option. The rich, nutty flavor is essential!
- Filtered Water: Simply helps adjust the thickness. You can substitute this with coconut milk for a creamier dressing.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that is less processed than sugar. It pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
- Sambal Oelek: A chili paste that frequently adds spice to Asian dishes. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.
- Garlic and Ginger: Both add a level of freshness and warmth that enlivens the dressing beautifully.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: This oil can elevate your dressing to a whole new level. The subtle nuttiness adds depth and character.
- Raw Honey: An incredible sweetener that brings more than just sweetness; it offers a beautiful depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to spice things up:
- Different Nut Butters: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist.
- Add Creaminess: Blend in a bit of Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing.
- Citrus Kick: Replace lime with orange juice to add a different sweetness and zest.
- Herbs and Greens: Throw in some fresh cilantro or basil to give it a fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Nut-Free Version: For those with nut allergies, use sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp filtered water
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp sambal oelek
- 2 tsp finely chopped garlic
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp raw honey
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Liquid Ingredients
- Start by gathering a mixing bowl. In it, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice, apple cider vinegar, dark soy sauce, and filtered water. Use a whisk to blend these together smoothly. The acidity of the lime and vinegar plays a vital role in balancing the richness of the peanut butter.
Step 2: Mix in the Peanut Butter and Sweeteners
- Next, let’s add the natural peanut butter and maple syrup. Stir well until everything is completely blended. This step is crucial because you want an even consistency throughout the dressing.
- The peanut butter not only adds creaminess but also brings protein to the mix.
Step 3: Spice It Up
- Now, it’s time to add some flavor. Incorporate the sambal oelek, finely chopped garlic, ground cumin, and fresh grated ginger. Each of these ingredients contributes its own unique flair, blending beautifully with the base we’ve created.
- Stir well to ensure all the flavors are incorporated.
Step 4: Finish with the Oils
- Finally, drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and raw honey, stirring one last time. The sesame oil will give the dressing a slightly nutty aroma, elevating the overall taste. The honey adds just the right note of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency as Needed
- Once everything is combined, taste the dressing. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash more water until you achieve your desired consistency. Adjust the sweetness or heat to your liking by adding more honey or sambal oelek. Don’t be shy! Experimentation is part of the fun.
Step 6: Serve or Store
- Your Panera Peanut Dressing is now ready! You can serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It tends to thicken a bit when chilled, so give it a good stir and add a bit of water if necessary before serving.
Notes
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish. You can substitute lemon juice if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This is a powerhouse of flavor and also known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion.
- Dark Soy Sauce: Differing from regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce brings a slight sweetness and thicker consistency, contributing to the overall depth of flavor.
- Natural Peanut Butter: Choose a brand without added sugar or oils for the healthiest option. The rich, nutty flavor is essential!
- Filtered Water: Simply helps adjust the thickness. You can substitute this with coconut milk for a creamier dressing.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that is less processed than sugar. It pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
- Sambal Oelek: A chili paste that frequently adds spice to Asian dishes. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.
- Garlic and Ginger: Both add a level of freshness and warmth that enlivens the dressing beautifully.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: This oil can elevate your dressing to a whole new level. The subtle nuttiness adds depth and character.
- Raw Honey: An incredible sweetener that brings more than just sweetness; it offers a beautiful depth of flavor.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does this dressing last in the fridge?
The dressing can last for about a week in an airtight container. Just give it a stir before using, as it may separate.
2. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use.
3. Is this dressing gluten-free?
To ensure gluten-free status, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.
4. What’s the best way to store this dressing?
Store your dressing in a sealed container in the fridge. Glass jars work great since they’re easy to clean and reuse.
5. Can I use this dressing on warm dishes?
No problem! It’s delicious on warm dishes, giving a lovely contrast. Just drizzle it over warm noodles or steamed vegetables.
6. How can I adjust the sweetness or spice level?
Feel free to taste as you go, adding more maple syrup for sweetness or sambal oelek for spice. It’s your dressing; make it yours!
Conclusion
Crafting homemade Panera Peanut Dressing has been a delightful journey into flavor. From the first taste to the endless possibilities it brings to meals, I hope you’ve found inspiration in this recipe.
Each ingredient adds its own punch to the dressing, making it an absolute winner in my kitchen. Whether you’re drizzling it over salads or using it as a dipping sauce, this dressing shines.
I encourage you to try making it yourself and savor the homemade touch. After all, nothing beats a sauce made with love. Enjoy, and happy cooking!