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Brits know a thing or two about comfort food, and pasta sauce is a cornerstone of many a satisfying meal across the pond. From rich and creamy to light and vibrant, there’s a UK-inspired pasta sauce recipe out there to tantalize every taste bud. This comprehensive guide dives into the world of British pasta sauces, offering a variety of delectable options to whip up in your own kitchen.

Classic Tomato Pasta Sauce

This timeless sauce is a staple in kitchens everywhere, and the UK is no exception. This version boasts a simple yet flavorful base that allows the quality of the tomatoes to shine.

# Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (400g) can chopped tomatoes

1 (14oz) can plum tomatoes, crushed by hand

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp dried basil

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves (optional).

Nutritional Facts: (Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 250

Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Sugar: 10g

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 400mg (depending on the added salt)

Tips:

For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend it after simmering.

Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Creamy Broccoli and Stilton Sauce

This decadent sauce is a delightful twist on the classic cheese sauce. The combination of creamy cheese and earthy broccoli creates a truly memorable pasta dish.

# Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

4 oz crumbled Stilton cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the broccoli florets and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to blend the broccoli mixture until slightly smooth. You can leave some florets whole for texture.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream, Stilton cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is heated through.
7. Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh parsley (optional).

Nutritional Facts: (Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 450

Fat: 30g

Saturated Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 25g

Sugar: 5g

Protein: 20g

Sodium: 500mg (depending on the added salt)

Tips:

For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

You can adjust the amount of Stilton cheese to your desired level of pungency.

Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.