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    Home » Sides and Sweets » Easy Peanut Butter Dressing for Salads, Bowls & Dipping

    Published: Aug 18, 2020 · Modified: Jul 3, 2025 by Marissa · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Easy Peanut Butter Dressing for Salads, Bowls & Dipping

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Let's hear it for pantry staple items that make the BEST salad dressings.

    This peanut butter dressing is the perfect way to level up any salad, grain bowl, or veggie situation. What I love about this recipe is how it’s creamy, tangy, savory, and takes literally two minutes to stir together.

    There is something so satisfying about making your own salad dressing and still having it taste better than the store bought version.

    If you like this dressing, you should try my Gluten Free Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles, Easy Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice, or my Red Wine Vinegar Dressing.

    drizzling peanut butter dressing on salad

    Why You Will Love This Dressing

    Super versatile – Use it on salads, noodles, rice bowls, or as a dip.

    No blender required – Just whisk it in a bowl or shake in a jar.

    Bold flavor, simple ingredients – Everything you need is probably in your pantry.

    All you need to make this dressing is:

    peanut butter soy sauce white vinegar and sesame oil
    • Peanut butter – The creamy, nutty base that gives the dressing body and richness.
    • Rice wine vinegar – Adds brightness and balances the peanut butter.
    • Soy sauce – Brings savory depth; use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
    • Sesame oil – Just a touch adds toasted, nutty flavor. (I grab mine at Trader Joe’s!)
    • Ground ginger – Adds a warm, zesty kick that makes the flavor pop.

    Substitutions and Variations

    Turn it into a marinade with a splash of olive oil

    Use almond butter or cashew butter if you're out of peanut butter

    Add maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness

    Stir in garlic or sriracha for a spicier version

    Thin it out with water or lime juice for a lighter drizzle

    How to make easy peanut butter dressing:

    whisking the ingredients for the salad dressing

    Step 1:
    In a small bowl or jar, combine peanut butter, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger.

    Step 2:
    Whisk until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water (1 teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.

    Step 3:
    Taste and adjust, add more vinegar for tang, soy sauce for saltiness, or ginger for zing.

    Step 4:
    Use immediately or store in the fridge for later!

    Tips and Notes

    Great for meal prep: this dressing stays good in the fridge for days

    Use warm water to help it mix smoothly if your peanut butter is thick

    A little goes a long way—start with a drizzle, then build

    Make a double batch to have on hand all week

    Recipe FAQs

    Can I use natural peanut butter?
    Yes! Just stir well before using—natural peanut butter can separate in the jar.

    Is this dressing gluten-free?
    It can be—just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

    Can I make it spicy?
    Definitely—add a dash of chili flakes, sriracha, or a bit of grated fresh garlic.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Drizzle over grain bowls with roasted veggies and tofu
    • Toss into a cabbage slaw for a Thai-inspired side
    • Use as a dip for spring rolls, carrots, or cucumber slices
    • Spoon over grilled chicken, shrimp, or tempeh
    • Mix with cold noodles for a super easy lunch

    Storage and Reheating Instructions

    Storage:
    Store in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

    Reheating (if needed):
    If it thickens in the fridge, stir in a splash of warm water to loosen it up.

    Tips:
    Shake or whisk before each use to bring the dressing back to life—separation is normal.

    I hope you are Over the Spoon for this recipe!
    It is my goal to inspire you to create healthy and easy meals.
    It would mean the world if you could leave a review or a star rating below!

    drizzling dressing on salad

    Easy Peanut Butter Dressing

    Marissa
    A delicious homemade peanut dressing made with pantry staples
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Total Time 5 minutes mins
    Course Salad
    Cuisine Thai
    Servings 3
    Calories 97 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 tbsp natural peanut butter
    • 3 tbsp rice wine vinegar
    • 1 tbsp soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • 1 tsp ground ginger

    Instructions
     

    • In a bowl whisk together all ingredients, adding more vinegar or peanut butter to change consistency based on preference.
    • Toss your favorite meal in dressing or store in fridge for later!
    « Healthy Tuna Patties (Gluten-free)
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