BEST
Mustard
This one is probably the best in my opinion. You can add mustard to everything from hot dogs (gross), to sandwiches, salads and even as a marinade. This low calorie condiment is made from different types of mustard seeds, ground and mixed with water, vinegar and other spices. It contains Omega 3 Fatty Acids and selenium. One thing you must be aware of however, there are different types of mustard which may add calories, fat and sodium. Be careful with honey mustard as that will add more calories and sugars. One tablespoon of yellow or brown mustard contains around 200 milligrams of sodium which can add up quickly as well! But, at the end of the day, compared to mayonnaise and other toppings, this condiment is not only tasty but better for maintaining the summer body you've worked so hard for.
Salsa
OMG... My family used to go over to a coworker and friend's house for Fourth of July every year. Eduardo's wife made the most INCREDIBLE homemade salsa! It was one of those salsas that legends are made of. Generations to come will speak of the legend of their mighty condiment. In fact, I used to show up to their house with an empty bowl with a lid to take what was left over home... true story!
This is another top pick for condiments. How can you go wrong with fresh veggies? The best choice is fresh salsa but even the stuff from a jar, isn't nearly as bad as some of the other choices you may use to top your foods. Salsa is low calorie, high fiber and loaded with antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals depending on what you choose to put in your particular salsa. I use salsa not only for the stereotypical Mexican food but use it to top potatoes, eggs, pasta sauce, homemade pizza, top my veggie burgers and so much more.
Hummus
I will admit, this was an acquired taste for me initially. Made from chickpeas, it's high in fiber and contains protein. Hummus comes in a variety of flavours. I personally like to add it as a spread to my veggie wraps or use as a dip with veggies. In fact, I'm eating Roasted Red Pepper Hummus and celery sticks as I write this blog! Be careful however, some hummus has some added flavours and ingredients which can raise the calorie and sodium count
Guacamole
Here we go again, avocados. This fruit seems to creep into all my blogs lately! And yes, avocado is a fruit... it's a member of the pear family. Don't believe me? Google it! I won't go into the nutritional value of this super food as I've covered it in a few past blogs. Guacamole or slices of avocado make a great topping for sandwiches and burgers. It is also good mixed in salads. Be careful however, this condiment is higher is calories. Generally, one half of an avocado is a good amount to limit yourself to per day.
BUST
Mayonnaise.
This condiment is like a skunk a picnic. Everyone seems to run from it! And for good reason. This high calorie, high fat goopy dressing/topping is usually made from egg, egg yolks, vinegar, oil and other voodoo magic ingredients. Swat it to the ground! Although, I will admit, it does taste ok in a potato salad... which is also high in calories and fat... ugh!
Ketchup
This is a tough one. Ketchup is good on just about everything. However, it is loaded with sodium and sugar! The calories can add up really fast as well because we tend to NEVER just use the serving size. We tend to drown our foods with it. I recommend salsa in it's place.
Relish
Does anyone really eat this condiment anymore? Other than on hot dogs? Relish is basically made from pickles. It's sweet which gives that distinct flavour. The problem, it's also loaded with sugars and sodium. The calories can add up quickly with this topping as well. The serving size can be blown out of proportion if not careful when adding to your food.