Mayonnaise is a popular condiment used in sandwiches, salads, dressings, baked goods, and more. It’s rich, tangy, and versatile. If you are out of mayo or need a replacement for dietary restrictions, this list of 15 mayonnaise substitute ideas has got you covered!
Mayonnaise is a super versatile ingredient that can boost both flavor and texture. If you’ve ever been in the middle of making a sandwich or preparing a recipe only to realize you’re out of mayo, you’ve probably wished you knew what to use as a mayonnaise substitute.
Fortunately, there are a ton of delicious substitutes for mayonnaise that taste great and add the perfect flavor to all sorts of recipes.And since mayonnaise is high in fat and calories, it may be necessary for those with dietary concerns to replace mayo in specific recipes.
No matter what the reason, when you need a substitute for mayo, this list includes a mayonnaise substitute that will work in almost any situation.
Want even more handy substitution hacks? Then be sure to check out this list of 21 Worcestershire Sauce Substitutes and my Soy Sauce Substitute ideas. #kitchenswapsforthewin
What Is Mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is a versatile condiment made with oil and eggs or egg yolks. Used in cuisines across the globe, mayo adds moisture, flavor, and tanginess to a variety of dishes.
It’s important to remember that since it’s perishable, mayo should always be kept in the fridge once opened.
One of my favorite ways to use mayonnaise in cooking is as a coating for chicken or fish before baking or frying. Plus, it makes a great base for salad dressings, dips, and spreads.
If you’re in the mood for a quick and easy appetizer, try mixing some herbs and spices into your mayo and spreading it on crackers or crostini. And, did you know mayonnaise can even be used in baking? It’s true!
How To Substitute For Mayonnaise
There are several reasons you may need a mayonnaise substitute. Whether you’ve run out of mayonnaise, just prefer to use something with less fat and less oil, have an egg allergy, or are looking to limit calories, there’s a surprisingly wide range of mayonnaise substitutes you can use in your cooking and recipes.
While these substitutes for mayo can mimic some of the same flavors and texture, they may not work in every recipe.Different mayo substitutes are more suitable for different situations, so you’ll want to experiment to discover which option works best for your specific use.
So, get ready to learn more about my favorite substitutes for mayonnaise!
15 Mayonnaise Substitutes
1. Greek Yogurt
Plain Greek yogurt is a popular and healthy substitute for mayonnaise. Like mayo, it’s creamy and tangy. You can use it as a one-to-one replacement in most recipes. When using in dressing or recipes where tanginess is desired, such as potato salad or tuna salad, mix it with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar.
2. Avocado
Pureed or mashed avocado can provide a creaminess similar to mayonnaise. Avocado works well as a spread on sandwiches or as a base for dressings and dips, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
3. Hummus
Hummus is a flavorful dip made from mashed chickpeas and tahini. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a great alternative to mayonnaise in sandwiches, wraps, and dips.
4. Sour Cream
Sour cream has a creamy consistency and a slightly tangy flavor. It can be used as a one-to-one substitute for mayonnaise in many recipes, such as potato salads and creamy dressings. It can even be used as a mayo substitute in baking to add moisture.
5. Cashew Cream
Made by soaking cashews in water and blending until it makes a smooth and creamy mixture, cashew cream is a great vegan alternative to mayonnaise since it contains no added oils or eggs. Use it in sandwiches, dressings, and dips.
6. Olive Oil
In certain recipes, you can use olive oil to replace mayonnaise. In pasta salads or as a dressing base, mix olive oil with vinegar or lemon juice and seasonings to achieve a similar effect. Using olive oil will not result in a creamy dressing.
7. Tahini
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and is creamy with a nutty flavor. It can be used in dressings, sauces, and spreads as a substitute for mayonnaise.
8. Mashed Potatoes
Yeap, you can use mashed potatoes instead of mayo to provide a creamy texture and add a subtle flavor. This works especially well in dishes like potato salad.
9. Coconut Milk
Canned coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to mayonnaise. It offers a creamy consistency and a hint of sweetness. Coconut milk can be used in dressings, marinades, and creamy sauces. Use full fat coconut milk and skim off the thicker portion for the best results.
10. Mustard
Mustard can add creaminess and tanginess to dishes, making it a suitable substitute for mayonnaise. You can use it in sandwiches, dressings, and sauces to provide a similar flavor profile.
11. Silken Tofu
Silken tofu can be blended until smooth and used as a substitute for mayonnaise. It has a mild flavor and creamy texture, making it a versatile option in dips, dressings, and spreads. Tofu is vegan and contains no eggs.
12. Plain Yogurt
Plain unsweetened yogurt can be used as a 1:1 substitute for mayonnaise in certain recipes. It offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture. Plain yogurt is not quite as thick as Greek yogurt but can work well too.
13. Ranch Dressing
Ranch dressing (or any creamy salad dressing) can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in certain recipes. It has a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that pairs well with salads, sandwiches, and dips.
14. Applesauce
Applesauce can be swapped in for mayonnaise when baking, particularly in moist cakes and muffins. It adds moisture and a subtle sweetness while reducing the fat content.
15. Mashed Beans
Mashed beans, such as white beans or chickpeas, provide a creamy texture and added protein. Beans can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in dips, spreads, and sandwiches. Plus, mashed beans add protein and fiber, and they are also gluten free and vegan.
FAQs
Can Mayonnaise Be Left Out of the Fridge?
Mayonnaise should be refrigerated for a longer shelf life. Mayo can be left at room temperature for shorter periods of time (less than 2 hours) when used in certain recipes like salads and dressings.
Is Mayonnaise Good for You?
Mayonnaise contains omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E but is also high in fat and calories due to the use of eggs and oil. Use mayonnaise in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How Long Does Mayonnaise Last?
Once opened, mayonnaise should be kept in the fridge and used within 2-3 months. Unopened mayonnaise is shelf stable until the expiration date listed on the container.
More Helpful Substitution Ideas
- Worcestershire Sauce Substitutes.
- Soy Sauce Substitute.
- Mirin Substitute.
- Cumin Substitute.
- Marjoram Substitutes.
- Oyster Sauce Substitute.
- Thyme Substitutes.
- Cream of Tartar Substitute.
Recipes You May Like
Use your favorite mayo substitutes in these delicious recipes;
- Hawaiian Pasta Salad.
- Mexican Air Fryer Corn on the Cob.
- Southern Grape Salad.
- Greek Potato Salad.
Thank you for reading my mayonnaise substitute recipe post. And please come visit again as I continue to slice, dice, and dream up affordable Air Fryer recipes, Instant Pot Recipes, Southern Recipes, and more. Thanks for supporting Recipes from a Pantry, food blog.
