Fall is here, bringing its cozy vibes and delicious seasonal produce! Whether you're whipping up weeknight dinners or preparing for a weekend feast, one thing can take your meals to the next level—sauces. With just the right blend of spices, a sauce can transform even the simplest dishes into something extraordinary. This November, let's spice up fall with some seasonal sauces perfect for pairing with your favorite dishes.
1. Maple Mustard Glaze
Fall is all about warm, comforting flavors, and nothing says that better than a rich maple mustard glaze. This sweet, tangy sauce pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. For an extra twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring out those fall spices.
How to use it:
- Drizzle over roasted veggies or toss with crispy potatoes for a savory-sweet combo.
- Brush onto chicken or pork for a flavorful glaze before roasting.
2. Butternut Squash Alfredo
Swap out your regular Alfredo sauce for a seasonal version made with butternut squash! This creamy sauce is both decadent and packed with fall flavor. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with garlic, sage, and a touch of nutmeg.
How to use it:
- Toss with pasta for a cozy, comforting dinner.
- Serve over roasted chicken or with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
3. Spiced Apple Cider Sauce
Apple cider isn't just for sipping! Use it to create a rich sauce with spices like cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. This spiced apple cider sauce adds a festive, sweet-savory touch to everything from roasted meats to desserts.
How to use it:
- Serve alongside roasted pork loin or turkey.
- Drizzle over baked apples or vanilla ice cream for a fall-inspired dessert.
4. Pumpkin Sage Cream Sauce
Pumpkin isn't just for pies—it’s the star of this luxurious cream sauce. Blended with sage, garlic, and a bit of Parmesan, this sauce is the ultimate way to bring fall flavors into your pasta dishes. It’s creamy, savory, and just a little earthy from the sage.
How to use it:
- Toss with gnocchi or penne for a delicious seasonal pasta dish.
- Pour over roasted cauliflower or use as a sauce for baked chicken.
5. Cranberry Orange Chutney
Cranberries are the unsung heroes of fall, and this cranberry orange chutney is the perfect way to bring them into your meals. The bright, tart flavor of cranberries pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of oranges and the warmth of fall spices like ginger and cinnamon.
How to use it:
- Serve with turkey or chicken as an alternative to traditional cranberry sauce.
- Spread over a sandwich with roasted turkey and brie for a gourmet touch.
6. Smoky Chipotle Honey Sauce
If you're looking to add a little heat to your fall dishes, a smoky chipotle honey sauce is the way to go. The smokiness of the chipotle peppers blends with the sweetness of honey, making this sauce perfect for adding a bit of warmth and spice to your meals.
How to use it:
- Brush onto grilled or roasted meats like chicken, pork, or ribs.
- Use as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries or roasted veggies.
7. Brown Butter Sage Sauce
Few things say fall like the nutty aroma of brown butter. Add sage to the mix, and you’ve got a sauce that's perfect for autumn. The rich, earthy flavors pair wonderfully with hearty fall produce.
How to use it:
- Drizzle over pumpkin ravioli, squash, or roasted root vegetables.
- Serve as a sauce for pan-seared scallops or crispy gnocchi.
Elevate Your Fall Meals
Fall cooking is all about comfort, and sauces are the ultimate comfort food addition. With just a few seasonal ingredients and spices, you can create sauces that add warmth, depth, and excitement to your favorite dishes. Whether you're preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, these sauces are sure to spice up your fall.
What are your favorite fall flavors?
Stock your Pantry for Fall! Get local delivery to Palo Alto when your order online or visit us that the Downtown Palo Alto and Downtown Menlo Park Farmer’s Markets.
