One of the easiest ways to elevate your home cooking is by mastering a few go-to sauces. They’re versatile, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re tossing them with pasta, drizzling over roasted veggies, or using them as a dip, these sauces can transform any meal into something special.
Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite homemade sauces that are perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. From nutty and creamy to herbaceous and tomato-based, there’s a sauce for every dish and craving.
1. Nutty Sauces
Nut-based sauces bring richness and depth to just about anything, from roasted veggies to grain bowls. These are a few of our must-tries:
- Sesame Sauce: A smooth, nutty sauce that’s perfect for noodles or stir-fried veggies. Get the recipe.
- No-Waste Peanut Butter Jar Sauce: Make the most of that last bit of peanut butter in the jar with this creamy, versatile sauce. Get the recipe.
- Sesame Sauce with Chili Oil: Add a spicy kick to your favorite sesame sauce. Get the recipe.
- Almond Butter Sauce: A lightly sweet, savory sauce that pairs beautifully with roasted eggplant. Get the recipe.
2. Yogurt-Based Sauces
Yogurt sauces are creamy, tangy, and effortlessly versatile, working as dips, dressings, or drizzles.
- Lemony Yogurt Sauce: Bright and citrusy, perfect for roasted squash or chickpeas. Get the recipe.
- Chimichurri Yogurt Sauce: A refreshing, herbaceous twist on classic chimichurri. Get the recipe.
3. Herbaceous Sauces
Fresh herbs are the key to these vibrant, flavor-packed sauces that work on everything from chicken to potatoes.
- Herby Sauce: A versatile green sauce that brightens up any dish. Get the recipe.
- Lemony Sauce: Light, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor—ideal for pasta. Get the recipe.
- Lemony Garlic Tahini Sauce: A nutty, garlicky sauce with a zing of lemon. Get the recipe.
- Parsley Lime Sauce: Zesty and bold, this sauce makes fries and veggies irresistible. Get the recipe.
4. Tomato Sauces
Tomato sauces are classics for a reason. These recipes go beyond the basics to give you fresh, bold flavors.
- Cherry Tomato Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and perfect for spaghetti. Get the recipe.
- No-Cook Tomato Sauce: A raw, bright sauce that’s ideal for quick weeknight dinners. Get the recipe.
5. Veg-Forward Sauces
These vegetable-based sauces add texture, color, and plenty of nutrients to your meals.
- Eggplant Sauce: Silky and luscious, this sauce makes pasta unforgettable. Get the recipe.
- Green Bell Pepper Sauce: A smoky, savory enchilada sauce that’s anything but ordinary. Get the recipe.
- Vegan Bolognese: A hearty, plant-based twist on a comfort food favorite. Get the recipe.
6. Pestos
Pesto isn’t just for basil lovers. These creative twists on the classic sauce are packed with fresh flavors and endless possibilities:
- Simple Green Pesto with Arugula: A peppery, vibrant pesto that’s perfect for pastas and grain bowls. Get the recipe.
- Roasted Jalapeño Pesto: A smoky, spicy take on pesto that’s delicious with potato pancakes or grilled veggies. Get the recipe.
- Creamy Spinach Pesto with White Beans: A creamy, protein-packed version that’s perfect for spreading or tossing with pasta. Get the recipe.
- Kale Stem Pesto: A no-waste, nutrient-dense pesto that turns leftovers into something special. Get the recipe.
Ready to Master the Art of Sauce?
These recipes prove that homemade sauces are easier than you think—and they’ll transform the way you cook. Stock up on fresh ingredients and get ready to dip, drizzle, and delight. Which sauce will you try first? Let us know in the comments!