Q What can I spread on sandwiches instead of mayo? Please, no fake cream or low-fat, tofu or Miracle Whip (it's a miracle anybody can stomach it). A big hit of flavor and something healthy so my family won't be drowning in fat is what is needed. They'll eat anything, but since I am not a cook, please, please make it be simple enough for a Stove-Shy Single Dad.
A Piece of cake. Scan the condiments in the supermarket deli's refrigerated section, and note that you can have a different spread for every night of the week -- and for most every sandwich you could concoct. And so many of them are either naturally low in fat or use olive oil. For maximum benefits, check that the olive oil is extra-virgin -- and certified organic ingredients wouldn't be a bad idea, either.
I'll eat the cold Greek potato-garlic-almond sauce/dip called skordalia on bologna sandwiches, it is so good. But spread it in a pita sandwich of summer tomatoes and fresh cheese, and we are talking heaven. Also from the Eastern Mediterranean is the roasted eggplant purée called baba ghanoush. Here is a riff on the ubiquitous chickpea hummus. This works on anything from sliced hard-cooked eggs to roasted vegetables, salami and roast beef.
Lynne Rossetto Kasper hosts "The Splendid Table," American Public Media's national food show, splendidtable.org. Send questions to table@mpr.org.
