Say Hello to Your New Pantry Staple

By Natalie Walston, PLAZA

We’ve all been there: hangry, tired, loathe to make dinner at all. And in our attempt to make the “Easy Weeknight Meal” recipe we saved on IG, we find ourselves on a culinary odyssey that takes three times longer than promised. The whole time, all you can think is: THIS is why the universe invented take-out.

We know, we’ve been there. Which is why our buyers were just giddy to recently stumble upon something that provides a glimmer of hope. May we present to you: The Starter Sauce. It’s not exactly revolutionary, but it takes on an interesting and elevated way to approach dinner that allows a home-cooked meal that can be scaled to our time and energy level. Think Hamburger Helper of the new generation. We were excited to see contemporary flavors like Thai Curry and Tuscan Chicken, with plenty of geographical culinary stops in between.

Here’s the formula: One Part Protein or Veg, One part Starter Sauce, any additional Whatever Elses you want to add. Boom. Done. You can stop right there. OR … If you are able to push on with more steps and/or ingredients, go for it, but remember: No one is the boss of you when it comes to dinner.

Once you’ve concocted your masterpiece you can pour it over rice, pasta or your favorite grain. Need easier? Open a bag of chips, flatbread or crackers. Add a side salad or slaw if you’re absolutely feeling like you can conquer the world. Dinner. Is. Served. Healthy, delicious and most of all, EASY. Your chef coat is in the mail.

As an added bonus, the sauces even come with QR codes for recipe suggestions if you are looking for some extra inspiration. Just take a look at the Orange Chicken.