Panera Peanut Dressing Recipe
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.
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
Course: dressing
Cuisine: Thai
Keyword: Panera Peanut Dressing Recipe
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 79kcal
Author: Bex Smith
- 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
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.
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.
Serving: 33g | Calories: 79kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4.3g | Sodium: 162mg | Sugar: 9g