Veggies: everyone knows they need them, yet so many don’t eat enough. Preparation time and flavor are the two factors that stop most people from meeting their daily vegetable requirements. So the key to increasing vegetable intake is finding simple ways to prepare them that you actually enjoy. One great way to do this is to experiment making your own flavorful sauces. A delicious, savory sauce can elevate an otherwise boring meal or snack with little preparation needed. 

If you find that week after week the items in your vegetable drawer just end up going bad before you get around to using them, keep reading to find out how to turn them into quick and yummy weeknight meals that you can feel good about. 

1. Peanut Sauce

If you enjoy Thai food, you’ll love this simple peanut sauce. This recipe is great for dipping summer rolls or topping stir frys. In addition to the creamy flavor, the peanut butter used for the base will add a bit of extra protein to your meal.

I used this one as a topping for my stir fried veggies and tempeh, and the results were delicious. Instead of choosing one or the other, I used both chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes for a bit of extra spice!

2. Greek Yogurt Dip

For a creamy sauce that will also up the protein in your meal, try this greek yogurt dip. The recipe utilizes only a few ingredients: greek yogurt, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and a fresh herb of your choice. This sauce is perfect for dipping raw veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers into. 

I made this one to dip cucumber slices in. Dill was the only fresh herb I had on hand, so I used that instead of cilantro or parsley. It made a refreshing summertime snack, and it was a good change up from my usual greek yogurt and berries. 

3. Sunshine Salad Dressing

A great recipe to make ahead for the week, this salad dressing will last 10 to 14 days in the fridge. Greek yogurt gives it a creamy texture, and the honey and dijon mustard give it a honey mustard flavor. It's healthier than most store bought dressings and is cheaper per serving.  

4. Avocado Pesto

This recipe has the added benefit of already being vegetable based. Avocados give this one a velvety texture without the need for dairy. It would make a great topper for spaghetti squash or grilled eggplant. 

5. Stir Fry Sauce

This next recipe is super versatile, and it’s perfect for those times when you want to just throw some ingredients in a pan and have dinner ready in twenty minutes. This easy stir fry sauce is sweet and savory. There is also the option to make it spicy with the addition of crushed red pepper or sriracha.