Sunshine Sauce Recipe: Easy, Zesty Homemade Condiment

I’ll be honest with you: I stumbled upon this Sunshine Sauce Recipe completely by accident.

One sweltering summer afternoon, I was grilling chicken for dinner and realized I’d run out of my usual marinades. Instead of making a store run, I decided to raid my pantry and fridge for whatever bright, tangy ingredients I could find. What emerged from that improvised moment was a sauce so vibrant and versatile that my family now requests it weekly.

This golden-hued condiment gets its name from more than just its cheerful color. The combination of citrus, spices, and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor profile that truly brightens up any dish it touches.

This sauce works beautifully as a marinade, dipping sauce, or drizzle for everything from grilled proteins to roasted vegetables. The recipe I’m sharing with you today is my perfected version after months of tweaking ratios and testing different ingredient combinations.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes
Servings	About 2 cups (16 servings)
Difficulty Level	Easy

You might also enjoy: Burger Sauce Recipe

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Sunshine Sauce Recipe

This Sunshine Sauce has become my secret weapon in the kitchen, and I think it’ll become yours too. The balance of tangy citrus with subtle heat and sweetness creates an addictive flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Unlike store-bought sauces that often contain preservatives and artificial ingredients, this homemade version uses simple, wholesome ingredients you can actually pronounce. You know exactly what’s going into your food.

Here’s what makes this sauce truly special:

Incredibly versatile: Works as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu; doubles as a salad dressing; perfect for drizzling over tacos or grain bowls
Quick and easy: Comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal hands-on time
Customizable heat level: Adjust the spiciness to suit your taste preferences
Made with pantry staples: Most ingredients are probably already in your kitchen
Long shelf life: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks
Budget-friendly: Costs a fraction of specialty sauces from gourmet stores
Naturally gluten-free: Safe for those with gluten sensitivities
Bold, memorable flavor: The kind of sauce that makes people ask for the recipe

Another favorite: Bang Bang Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

This Sunshine Sauce comes together with a handful of simple ingredients that create complex, layered flavors. I’ve tested countless variations, and this combination consistently delivers the best results.

For the base:

1 cup mayonnaise (240 ml)
1/4 cup honey (60 ml)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (45 ml), about 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (30 ml)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (30 ml)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)

For the spice blend:

2 teaspoons smoked paprika (4 g)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
1 teaspoon onion powder (3 g)
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (1 g)
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (1 g), adjust to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (0.5 g)
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (3 g)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (0.5 g)

Optional additions:

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for herbal notes)
1 teaspoon lime zest (for extra citrus punch)
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (for additional heat)

Read Also: Yum Yum Sauce Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You won’t need any fancy gadgets to make this Sunshine Sauce. I deliberately kept the equipment list simple so you can whip this up anytime the craving strikes.

Essential tools:

Medium mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Small cutting board (for citrus)
Sharp knife
Citrus juicer or reamer (optional but helpful)
Rubber spatula
Glass storage jar with lid (16-ounce capacity)
Fine-mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)

Optional but helpful:

Immersion blender (for ultra-smooth consistency)
Microplane grater (for citrus zest)
Small saucepan (if you prefer to warm the sauce)

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Even if you’re missing a tool or two, you can still make an excellent sauce with just a bowl and a whisk.

For a lighter option, try: Healthy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making this Sunshine Sauce countless times, I’ve discovered a few products that genuinely make a difference in the final result. These aren’t just random recommendations but items I personally use and love.

1. Sir Kensington’s Avocado Oil Mayonnaise

This mayonnaise has a cleaner taste than traditional versions and doesn’t overpower the bright citrus flavors in the sauce. The avocado oil base also adds healthy fats and creates a silkier texture. I’ve tried at least a dozen brands, and this one consistently delivers the best flavor and consistency.

Get it on Amazon

2. The Spice Hunter Organic Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika is the soul of this sauce, providing that subtle smoky depth that makes it so addictive. This organic version has a robust, authentic smokiness without any bitter aftertaste. Generic brands often taste flat by comparison.

Get it on Amazon

3. OXO Good Grips Citrus Juicer

Fresh citrus juice makes all the difference in this recipe, and this juicer extracts every last drop without pulp or seeds ending up in your sauce. The non-slip base and comfortable handle make juicing multiple lemons effortless. Trust me, once you use this, you’ll never go back to struggling with manual juicing.

Get it on Amazon

4. Weck Glass Jars with Lids

These sturdy glass jars are perfect for storing your Sunshine Sauce. They’re airtight, don’t absorb odors or stains, and the clear glass lets you see exactly how much sauce you have left. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe and look beautiful in the fridge.

Get it on Amazon

This pairs beautifully with my Teriyaki Sauce Recipe for creating an Asian fusion flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Sunshine Sauce

Making this sauce is straightforward, but paying attention to the small details will elevate your results from good to spectacular. Follow these steps carefully for the best outcome.

1. Prepare Your Citrus

The foundation of this sauce is fresh citrus juice, so starting here ensures you have all your wet ingredients ready to go.

Wash the lemon and orange under cool running water, then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel
Roll each citrus fruit firmly on your countertop using the palm of your hand for about 10 seconds; this breaks down the internal membranes and releases more juice
Cut the lemon and orange in half crosswise (through the equator, not pole to pole)
Using your citrus juicer, squeeze the lemon halves over a small bowl, removing any seeds that fall in
Measure out 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of lemon juice; if you’re slightly short, juice a bit of the second lemon
Repeat with the orange, measuring out 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of juice
If you have extra juice, save it for another use or use it to thin the sauce later if needed

2. Combine the Wet Ingredients

Getting the base right is crucial because this is where all your flavors will meld together.

In your medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup (240 ml) of mayonnaise
Add the 1/4 cup (60 ml) of honey directly on top of the mayonnaise
Pour in the 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of fresh lemon juice
Add the 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh orange juice
Measure and add the 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of Dijon mustard
Pour in the 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar
Using your whisk, stir everything together in a circular motion, starting slowly to prevent splashing
Continue whisking for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and uniform, with no streaks of mayonnaise visible
The consistency should be slightly thinner than plain mayonnaise but still pourable

3. Prepare the Spice Blend

Creating a separate spice mixture ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the sauce without clumps.

In a small separate bowl or cup, combine 2 teaspoons (4 g) of smoked paprika
Add 1 teaspoon (3 g) of garlic powder
Add 1 teaspoon (3 g) of onion powder
Add 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground turmeric
Add 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of cayenne pepper (remember, you can always add more later if you want extra heat)
Add 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of ground cumin
Add 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) of fine sea salt
Add 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of freshly ground black pepper
Use a small spoon to stir all the spices together thoroughly, breaking up any clumps
The mixture should be evenly colored with no pockets of any single spice

4. Incorporate the Spices into the Sauce

This is where your sauce transforms from a simple mayo mixture into Sunshine Sauce.

Sprinkle the spice blend over the wet ingredients in your mixing bowl
Don’t dump it all in one spot; distribute it across the surface of the liquid
Begin whisking immediately, using vigorous circular motions to prevent the spices from clumping
Whisk continuously for 45 to 60 seconds until the sauce turns a beautiful golden-orange color
Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl with your whisk to incorporate any spices that may have settled
The sauce should now have a uniform color with no visible spice clumps or streaks
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed; add more cayenne for heat, more honey for sweetness, or more lemon juice for tanginess

5. Let the Flavors Marry (Optional But Recommended)

While you can use this sauce immediately, allowing it to rest improves the flavor dramatically.

If using immediately, give the sauce one final stir and transfer to your serving dish
For best results, transfer the sauce to your glass storage jar using a rubber spatula to scrape every bit from the bowl
Seal the jar with its lid and place it in the refrigerator
Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes, though 2 to 4 hours is ideal
During this time, the spices will bloom and the flavors will meld together beautifully
The sauce will also thicken slightly as it chills, reaching its perfect consistency
Before serving, remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes, then stir well to recombine any separated oils

6. Final Adjustments and Serving

This final step ensures your sauce is perfect before it hits the table.

Give the sauce a thorough stir before using, as some separation is natural
Taste and adjust seasoning one final time; you might want to add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon
If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in water, lemon juice, or orange juice one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency
If you added the optional fresh cilantro, stir it in now for maximum freshness and color
Transfer the desired amount to a small serving bowl, leaving the rest in your storage jar for later use
The sauce is now ready to be brushed on grilled meats, used as a dipping sauce, drizzled over salads, or however you choose to enjoy it

Read Also: Cocktail Sauce Recipe

Tips for The Best Sunshine Sauce

After making this sauce dozens of times and serving it to countless people, I’ve learned some tricks that separate an okay sauce from an exceptional one.

Essential tips for success:

Use fresh citrus juice only: Bottled lemon juice has a flat, processed taste that will dull the brightness of your sauce; always squeeze fresh lemons and oranges
Quality mayonnaise matters: Since mayo is the base, using a high-quality brand with simple ingredients makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture
Don’t skip the resting time: I know it’s tempting to use the sauce immediately, but those 2 to 4 hours in the fridge allow the spices to bloom and the flavors to harmonize beautifully
Adjust heat gradually: Start with less cayenne than you think you need; you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s too spicy
Measure spices carefully: Unlike cooking where you can eyeball measurements, sauce-making requires precision to maintain the perfect balance
Check expiration dates on spices: Old spices lose potency and can taste stale; if your paprika has been in the cabinet for years, replace it for this recipe
Whisk thoroughly: Take your time incorporating the spices to avoid clumps and ensure even distribution of flavor throughout the sauce
Store properly: Always use a clean, dry utensil when scooping sauce from your storage jar to prevent contamination and extend shelf life
Bring to room temperature before serving: Cold sauce can dull the flavors; let it warm slightly for the best taste experience
Taste and adjust: Every batch may vary slightly depending on the sweetness of your honey or the tartness of your citrus, so always taste and tweak
Use a microplane for optional zest: If adding citrus zest, use a microplane to avoid the bitter white pith

For a complementary sauce, try: Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

What to Serve with Sunshine Sauce

This versatile sauce enhances so many dishes that I almost always have a jar in my fridge. Here are my favorite ways to use it, along with specific serving suggestions.

The bright, tangy flavor profile of Sunshine Sauce makes it an excellent companion to rich, savory proteins and fresh vegetables alike. I’ve found it particularly shines when paired with grilled or roasted foods.

Perfect pairings:

Grilled chicken breasts or thighs: Brush on during the last few minutes of cooking or serve as a dipping sauce alongside Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Fish tacos: Drizzle over Baja Fish Tacos for an extra layer of flavor
Roasted vegetables: Toss with cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts fresh from the oven
Grain bowls: Use as a dressing for quinoa or rice bowls topped with roasted chickpeas and fresh veggies
Grilled shrimp skewers: Brush on during grilling or serve as a dipping sauce with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Over Couscous
Chicken wings: Toss wings in the sauce after frying or baking for a unique flavor twist
Sandwich spread: Slather on BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches or turkey wraps
Crispy tofu: Perfect for coating pan-fried or baked tofu cubes
French fries or sweet potato fries: An unexpected but delicious dipping sauce
Salmon fillets: Brush on before or after baking for a citrusy glaze
Raw vegetables: Serve as a dip for carrot sticks, bell peppers, and cucumber slices
Burgers: Spread on buns instead of traditional condiments with Crack Burger

Another favorite: Peanut Sauce Recipe

Variations of Sunshine Sauce

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles and dietary needs. Here are some variations I’ve created over time.

Flavor variations:

Spicy Sunshine Sauce: Double the cayenne pepper and add 1 tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce for serious heat lovers
Herb Garden Sunshine Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of mixed fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and dill for a fresh, garden-fresh flavor
Asian-Inspired Sunshine Sauce: Replace the Dijon with 1 tablespoon of Hoisin Sauce and add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ginger for an East-meets-West fusion
Smoky Chipotle Sunshine Sauce: Swap smoked paprika for 1 to 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce from canned chipotles for a deeper, smokier heat
Garlic Lover’s Sunshine Sauce: Add 2 to 3 cloves of finely minced fresh garlic or 1 tablespoon of roasted garlic paste
Maple Sunshine Sauce: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness with subtle woody notes
Curry Sunshine Sauce: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder and 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala for an Indian-inspired twist
Lime Lover’s Sunshine Sauce: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice and add 1 teaspoon of lime zest for a bolder citrus punch

Dietary modifications:

Vegan Sunshine Sauce: Use vegan mayonnaise and replace honey with agave nectar or maple syrup
Paleo Sunshine Sauce: Use paleo-approved mayonnaise and replace honey with pure maple syrup
Whole30 Compliant: Use compliant mayonnaise and omit the honey, increasing the citrus slightly to compensate
Low-Sugar Version: Reduce honey to 2 tablespoons or use a sugar-free honey alternative
Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance

You might also enjoy: Alabama White Sauce Recipe

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage is key to maintaining the fresh, bright flavors of your Sunshine Sauce. I’ve learned through trial and error exactly how to keep this sauce at its best.

Storage guidelines:

Refrigerator storage: Transfer the sauce to an airtight glass container or jar immediately after making; it will keep for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator
Use clean utensils: Always use a clean, dry spoon or spatula when scooping sauce to prevent introducing bacteria that could spoil the sauce prematurely
Check for spoilage: Before using stored sauce, check for any off odors, mold, or separation beyond normal; if it smells sour or looks off, discard it
Freezing: While possible, I don’t recommend freezing this sauce as mayonnaise-based sauces can separate and become grainy when thawed; make fresh batches instead
Separation is normal: Some oil separation may occur during storage; simply stir well before using to recombine
Temperature matters: Keep the sauce in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back of a shelf, not in the door where temperature fluctuates
Portion control: Consider storing in smaller jars if you make a large batch so you’re not repeatedly opening and closing the same container
Label your container: Write the date you made the sauce on the jar so you can track freshness

Serving from storage:

Remove the sauce from the refrigerator 5 to 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off
Stir thoroughly before using as the ingredients may have settled
If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, thin it with a teaspoon or two of water, lemon juice, or olive oil
Never leave the sauce at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth

Read Also: Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of Sunshine Sauce can help you incorporate it mindfully into your meal planning. Here’s a breakdown per 2-tablespoon serving.

Per serving (2 tablespoons / 30 ml):

Calories: 105
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 125mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin A: 8% DV
Vitamin C: 6% DV
Calcium: 1% DV
Iron: 2% DV

Nutritional highlights:

Moderate calorie content makes it suitable for most diets when used in reasonable portions
The fat content comes primarily from the mayonnaise, which contains heart-healthy unsaturated fats
Relatively low in sodium compared to many commercial sauces
Contains beneficial antioxidants from turmeric and paprika
Natural sugars from honey provide quick energy
Citrus contributes vitamin C for immune support

Read Also: Buffalo Sauce Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While Sunshine Sauce is certainly delicious, I love that several of its ingredients offer genuine health benefits. Understanding these can make you feel even better about enjoying this sauce.

Turmeric: This golden spice contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that’s been studied extensively for its potential to reduce inflammation and support joint health. Even the small amount in this sauce contributes beneficial antioxidants.

Citrus fruits: Both lemon and orange juice provide vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps your body absorb iron from other foods. The citric acid also aids digestion and may help prevent kidney stones.

Notable health benefits:

Smoked paprika: Rich in vitamins A and E, paprika contains capsaicin (even in small amounts), which may boost metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties
Garlic powder: Retains many of the cardiovascular benefits of fresh garlic, including potential blood pressure reduction and cholesterol management
Honey: Contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties; raw honey also provides trace amounts of vitamins and minerals
Apple cider vinegar: May help stabilize blood sugar levels and support digestive health through its probiotic content
Cayenne pepper: Contains capsaicin, which can temporarily boost metabolism and may help with pain relief
Onion powder: Provides quercetin, an antioxidant that may support heart health and reduce inflammation

Important considerations:

While these ingredients offer health benefits, Sunshine Sauce is still a condiment meant to enhance meals rather than serve as a primary source of nutrition. The mayonnaise base means it’s calorie-dense, so practice portion control if you’re watching your calorie intake.

For a complementary healthy option, try: Healthy Homemade Pesto Recipe

FAQs About Sunshine Sauce

1. Can I Make This Sunshine Sauce Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, and I actually recommend it. This sauce benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 4 hours before serving, allowing the spices to bloom and the flavors to meld beautifully.

You can make it up to 2 weeks in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as some separation is natural.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute if you want a lighter, tangier sauce with more protein. Use the same amount as the mayonnaise called for, though the consistency will be slightly thinner.

Sour cream works too, creating a richer, creamier sauce. For a vegan option, use your favorite plant-based mayonnaise; I’ve had great success with avocado oil-based vegan mayo.

3. How Can I Make This Sauce Less Spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper entirely. The sauce will still have plenty of flavor from the other spices without any heat.

You can also add an extra tablespoon of honey to balance any spiciness, as sweetness helps counteract heat. Start with less cayenne and taste as you go, adding more only if desired.

4. Can I Use Dried Citrus Juice Instead of Fresh?

While you technically can, I strongly discourage it. Fresh citrus juice is what gives this sauce its bright, vibrant flavor that makes it special.

Bottled lemon juice has a flat, processed taste that significantly dulls the overall flavor profile. The recipe only requires one lemon and part of an orange, so the fresh juice is worth the minimal extra effort.

5. Why Is My Sauce Separating?

Some separation is completely normal, especially after the sauce has been sitting in the refrigerator. The oil in the mayonnaise naturally rises to the top over time.

Simply stir the sauce thoroughly before using, and it will recombine perfectly. If separation happens quickly or seems excessive, make sure you’re whisking thoroughly when first making the sauce to create a proper emulsion.

Read Also: Caramel Sauce Recipe

Final Thoughts

This Sunshine Sauce Recipe has become one of my most-used condiments, and I have a feeling it’s about to become one of yours too. The way it brightens up everything from simple grilled chicken to elaborate grain bowls never fails to impress me.

What I love most is how this sauce makes weeknight cooking feel special without requiring extra effort. A simple piece of grilled fish or roasted vegetables becomes restaurant-worthy with just a drizzle of this golden sauce.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover all the wonderful ways it can transform your meals. Once you taste that perfect balance of tangy citrus, subtle sweetness, and warm spices, you’ll understand why my family requests it so often.

I’d love to hear how you use your Sunshine Sauce! Drop a comment below sharing your favorite ways to enjoy it, or tag me on social media when you make it. Happy cooking!

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Sunshine Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Sunshine Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Recommended Products for This Recipe

1. Sir Kensington’s Avocado Oil Mayonnaise