Father’s Day Weekend Favorites: 3 Easy BBQ Dips & Sauces You Can Make Ahead of Time
Father’s Day is the perfect time to fire up the grill, enjoy time with family, and dig into bold, smoky flavors. But traditional BBQ sauces and dips are often loaded with sugar, additives, and processed ingredients.
This year, gift Dad something better: homemade, make-ahead dips and sauces that are paleo, low in sugar, and high in flavor.
Below are 3 delicious and healthy options that pair perfectly with grilled meats, veggies, or even as marinades—and each one includes nutritional info and step-by-step instructions.
Fire & Smoke Sauce - All the BBQ flavor—none of the added sugar or preservatives.
Perfect for: Ribs, grilled chicken, pulled pork
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tomato paste (no sugar added)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1–2 tsp date syrup or honey (omit for no sugar version)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk all ingredients together.
- Bring to a low simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cool completely and store in an airtight jar for up to 7 days.
Nutrition (per 2 tbsp):
- Calories: 30
- Protein: 1g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 0g
- Sugar: 1g (0g if date/honey omitted)
Green Ember Dip - Fresh, creamy, and packed with healthy fats and zesty lime flavor!
Perfect for: Grilled steak, veggie platters, shrimp skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin)
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tbsp at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition (per 2 tbsp):
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 0g
Crimson Heat Sauce - Nutty, smoky, and a spicy kick!
Perfect for: Chicken thighs, grilled eggplant, burger topping
Ingredients:
- 1 roasted red bell pepper (skin removed)
- 1/3 cup raw almonds (soaked in water for 2 hours)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until creamy and slightly textured.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition (per 2 tbsp):
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 2g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 1g
