Hold the mayo (and other sandwich tips)

Not only are sandwiches a quick fix, but they also can be a healthy option for a meal. Here are some tips, from "The Big New York Sandwich Book."

May 11, 2011 at 7:35PM
For fewer calories, hold the mayo.
For fewer calories, hold the mayo. (iStockphoto.com/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

5 calorie-saving tipsDitch the mayo: Save 180 calories.

Substitute low or no-fat Greek yogurt for mayo: Save 165 calories and about 20 grams of fat.

Cut out bacon: Save 150 calories (but, really, who would want to do that?).

Ask for one slice of cheese instead of two: Save 100 calories.

Go open-face: Save 100 calories.

ANTIOXIDANTS, PLEASE

Use antioxidants to send your sandwich's nutrition through the roof. Here are some tips:

Look for color. The darker or more vivid, the more nutritious your choice.

Add a slice of avocado. In addition to the high vitamin E content, avocados are full of monounsaturated fats, which may increase your HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

Slip in yellow or red peppers. They have twice the level of vitamin C as green peppers.

Top with sprouts. They're a powerful source of protein and vitamin C.

Include chile peppers. These peppers, which fuel the fire in cayenne pepper, may also have an effect on appetite. Some studies have found that people who eat meals with plenty of this spice feel less hungry as a result.

Sprinkle in cilantro. Technically a dark, leafy vegetable, it has beta carotene and plenty of vitamins, including A and K. It also contains a natural antibiotic, which may help in warding off illness.

Whenever possible, add tomatoes. Try sun-dried for a change. Besides having plenty of vitamin C, tomatoes are rich in lycopene.

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