Here’s Why You Should Never Pair Peanut Butter With These 6 Foods

Peanut butter has a secure spot in the hearts (and pantries) of Americans, whether it's spread on toast, paired with jelly for a classic sandwich, or used in various dessert recipes. It’s creamy, nutty, and comforting, making it a go-to ingredient in countless dishes. But as much as we love peanut butter, there are certain combinations that just don’t belong together. While some of its savory and sweet pairings are iconic, others can leave you scratching your head—or worse, making a face of pure confusion. Here’s a look at foods you should never pair with peanut butter, whether you’re making a quick snack or preparing a creative recipe.

1. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Mint

Let’s start with something that may seem like a sweet match made in heaven—peanut butter and chocolate mint. After all, chocolate and peanut butter are best friends in many dessert recipes. However, mint has an entirely different flavor profile, and adding it to peanut butter can create an odd, clashing taste. While the richness of chocolate pairs perfectly with peanut butter’s creamy texture, mint adds an overwhelming freshness that doesn’t complement the nutty, savory flavor. If you’re trying to make a dessert treat, it might be better to leave mint out of the peanut butter equation and keep the flavors in harmony.

2. The Problem with Peanut Butter and Pickles

You’ve probably heard about the peanut butter and pickle sandwich—some claim it’s a quirky, hidden gem, while others avoid it like the plague. The combination of tangy pickles with the creamy, nutty richness of peanut butter is certainly… unique. While some adventurous foodies might tout its appeal, the truth is that the acidity of pickles can overpower the smoothness of peanut butter. The saltiness of the peanut butter also clashes with the vinegary bite of pickles, creating an unsettling experience for your taste buds. Unless you're experimenting for a laugh, it’s best to stick to more traditional pairings.

3. Peanut Butter and Spicy Foods

Peanut butter is undeniably versatile, but when it comes to spicy foods, it might be wise to skip the pairing. The rich, nutty taste of peanut butter doesn’t play well with heat. Whether it’s spicy chili, hot wings, or fiery salsas, the intense spiciness can easily overshadow the delicate flavor of peanut butter. Additionally, the creaminess of peanut butter doesn’t provide the necessary balance to neutralize the heat. So, if you’re craving spice, reach for some dairy or creamy sauces, but leave the peanut butter out of the equation.

4. Peanut Butter and Fruit Salad

Peanut butter is often paired with fruits like apples and bananas in snack recipes, and it works beautifully. But when it comes to mixing peanut butter into a full fruit salad, things get tricky. The sweetness of the fruit, combined with the earthy flavors of peanut butter, creates an imbalance that’s hard to enjoy. Not only does the texture clash—peanut butter can make fruits feel heavy and greasy—but the creaminess doesn’t quite mesh with the fresh, juicy crunch of fruits. If you’re making a fruit salad, keep the peanut butter to the side for dipping, and leave the salad free from the thick spread.

5. Peanut Butter and Fish

Fish is a delicate protein, often praised for its clean, light flavor. So why, then, would anyone consider pairing it with the richness of peanut butter? The answer: they shouldn’t. While certain Asian dishes like peanut sauce on shrimp can work, using peanut butter with more delicate fish (like salmon or cod) is a pairing you should avoid. The strong, nutty flavor of peanut butter competes with the subtle flavors of the fish, creating a confusing, unappetizing clash. If you're looking to complement your fish, try a citrusy or herby sauce instead.

6. Peanut Butter and Dairy

Dairy and peanut butter both have rich, creamy textures, but combining them can result in a flavor overload. While milkshakes and ice cream sundaes might seem like an exception, you have to be cautious. Combining peanut butter with heavy cream, for example, can make the dish overly rich and hard to stomach. The fat content in both ingredients creates a greasy, heavy texture that can be off-putting rather than satisfying. If you're looking for a creamy dessert, balance the richness of peanut butter with something tart or light, like yogurt or fresh fruit.