Sugo and Pesto is a subcategory of ready-made sauces and dressings, represented by the prestigious chef-led brands Hermanos Torres and Albert Adrià (La Cala), supplemented by Can Moragues, Las Doňas and Navarrico. The range includes the classic spicy Salsa Brava (also in an organic version), bolognese and mushroom salsa, basil pesto, Catalan Salsa Romesco and tomato salsa with garlic, as well as honey-mustard and spicy dressings. These are ready-made sauces prepared according to the recipes of respected chefs, which save time when cooking.
How to find your way around this category
Salsa Brava is a classic spicy tomato sauce, the traditional accompaniment to patatas bravas. Salsa Romesco is a Catalan speciality made from roasted almonds or hazelnuts, peppers and tomatoes. Bolognese and mushroom salsa are ready-made sauces for pasta. Pesto is the Italian basil sauce in a version by leading chefs. Dressings (honey-mustard, starter) accompany salads and cold starters.
For traditional tapas choose Salsa Brava or Romesco, and for a quick pasta dinner bolognese or mushroom salsa.
Overview of sauces and dressings
Product
Type
Recommended use
Salsa Brava
Spicy tomato sauce
Patatas bravas, tapas
Salsa Romesco
Nut and pepper base
Grilled vegetables, fish, meat
Salsa Boloñesa / mushroom
Ready-made sauce for pasta
A quick pasta dinner
Basil pesto
Italian herb sauce
Pasta, bread, dressing
Honey-mustard dressing
Salad dressing
Green salads, marinades
You will always find the specific weight and composition in the detail of the particular product.
The chef-led brands behind the sauces
Hermanos Torres are Catalan chef brothers, holders of a Michelin star for their restaurant in Barcelona, who transfer a professional gastronomic approach into their ready-made sauces. Albert Adrià, co-founder of the legendary El Bulli restaurant and brother of Ferran Adrià, is among the most important figures in modern Spanish gastronomy - his La Cala brand offers dressings and sauces with the signature of world-class cuisine.
Salsa Romesco also works very well as a dip - simply dip in a piece of grilled bread or vegetable.
Frequently asked questions
What is Salsa Brava traditionally served with?
Salsa Brava is the classic accompaniment to patatas bravas - fried potatoes, but it also goes well with other tapas or with grilled meat.
What is Salsa Romesco?
A Catalan sauce based on roasted almonds or hazelnuts, roasted peppers and tomatoes, traditionally served with grilled vegetables, fish and meat.
Who is Albert Adrià?
Albert Adrià is a respected Catalan chef, co-founder of the legendary El Bulli restaurant and brother of Ferran Adrià, one of the most important figures in modern gastronomy.
Do ready-made salsas have to be cooked?
In most cases it is enough to heat them or use them cold according to the type of sauce - you will find the specific recommendation on the product packaging.
How long does an opened sauce keep?
Once opened it belongs in the fridge and should be consumed within a few days; the exact use-by period is stated by the producer on the packaging.