Short on time but bored of the same meals? A great sauce can turn simple ingredients into something that feels completely different. From roasted vegetables and grilled chicken to pasta and grain bowls, these quick homemade sauces take minutes to make and can rescue even the most uninspired dinner.
ALSO SEE: An easy food swap for creamier, richer and more comforting sauces
Try one of these the next time you need a flavour boost:
Creamy garlic yoghurt sauce
Recipe: Mix ½ cup plain Greek yoghurt with one finely grated garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Best with: Grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, lamb, wraps and grain bowls.
Quick peanut-lime sauce
Recipe: Whisk together 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey and 2–3 tbsp warm water until smooth. Add a pinch of chilli flakes for heat.
Best with: Noodles, stir-fries, chicken skewers, roasted vegetables and crunchy slaws.
Herby green sauce
Recipe: Finely chop a handful of fresh parsley and basil, then mix with 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 small crushed garlic clove and a pinch of salt. Add a little more oil if needed.
Best with: Grilled fish, steak, roast chicken, vegetables or spooned over a simple baked potato.
Honey-mustard sauce
Recipe: Combine 2 tbsp Dijon mustard with 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper and whisk until smooth.
Best with: Chicken, roasted vegetables, salads, sandwiches and wraps. It also makes an easy dipping sauce.
Speedy tomato-chilli sauce
Recipe: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan and add one finely chopped garlic clove and ½ tsp chilli flakes. Cook for 30 seconds, then stir in 1 cup passata and simmer for three to four minutes. Season with salt and a pinch of dried oregano.
Best with: Pasta, meatballs, grilled chicken, eggs, roasted vegetables or toasted sourdough.
The shortcut worth remembering
Keep a few flavour-packed basics – Greek yoghurt, mustard, soy sauce, peanut butter, lemons, garlic and fresh herbs – in your kitchen and you’ll always be minutes away from a homemade sauce. Pick your favourite, make a batch and see how many different meals you can transform with it.
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Featured Image: Magnific
