A reliable sauce makes simple food feel finished. These five need only a few ingredients.
1. Garlic and lemon dressing
Whisk olive oil with lemon juice, a little crushed garlic, salt and pepper. Good on salads, grains and roasted vegetables.
2. Quick tomato sauce
Soften onion and garlic in oil, add tinned tomatoes and simmer for fifteen minutes. Season well. Use it with pasta, eggs or beans.
3. Peanut sauce
Mix peanut butter with soy sauce, a spoonful of honey or sugar, lime juice and warm water until smooth. Serve with noodles, chicken or raw vegetables.
4. Yoghurt and herb sauce
Stir chopped herbs, a pinch of salt and a little lemon into plain yoghurt. It works with grilled meat, falafel and flatbreads.
5. Soy and ginger glaze
Combine soy sauce, grated ginger, a little sugar and a splash of vinegar. Brush it on fish or tofu, or toss through stir-fried vegetables.
Tips
Taste as you go. If a sauce tastes flat, it usually needs salt or acid. If it is too sharp, add a little sweetness or fat.
