Nutrition Hint--Stop! Read This Before You Make That Sandwich!
According to Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, some of the healthiest condiments out there might surprise you. Let's take a look at his picks:
1. Mustard
That's right... mustard is absolutely one of the healthiest condiments! First, it has no added sugar. Also, mustard seed itself is a source of powerful antioxidants. In addition to the antioxidants in the mustard seed, most yellow mustards also contain turmeric (one of the healthiest anti-cancer spices) and paprika, which both contain powerful antioxidants as well!
2. Salsa
Salsa is mostly just vegetables so it's hard to go wrong. I like it on my morning eggs for variety sometimes. I also like to mix salsa half and half with guac for a delicious party treat! And if you're a ketchup lover and want to reduce your sugar intake, just try salsa instead for a much healthier option. Trust me... salsa on a burger is just as delicious as ketchup on a burger.
3. Hummus
Hummus is mostly just chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, and is easily one of the healthiest condiments or as a separate snack by itself.
The main thing to look for when buying a good hummus is to make sure it's made with olive oil and NOT soybean or canola oil. Unfortunately most brands use cheap soy or canola oil, but if you're a label reader, it's easy to find a brand that uses solely olive oil.
One of my favorite snacks is just veggie sticks with hummus. However, hummus is also a delicious condiment to go with sandwiches, on top of meat dishes, etc.
4. Pesto
Pesto is generally a mashed mix of garlic, pine nuts, basil, olive oil, and grated cheese. It's a great source of healthy fats and also powerful antioxidants, mostly from the garlic and basil, but to some extent from the pine nuts and olive oil too.
Pesto goes incredibly well with sandwiches, on meat dishes, or surprisingly, even on eggs.
