15+ Amazingly Easy Ways To Substitute for Mayo In Everything!

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Last Updated on April 11, 2025 by Toya

Need a quick substitute for mayonnaise? This list has 15+ great mayo substitutes that actually work! Whether you need a healthy mayo substitute or you want something that’s as close to mayo as possible, there is something on this list for everyone!

Mayonnaise is used in a ton of recipes like sandwiches, salads and dips to add flavor and that signature creaminess that many people love. But, it’s not always the healthier option. Or maybe you’ve just ran out of mayo and need a quick stand in that works well.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of over 16 delicious and or nutritious substitutes for mayonnaise. So, if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly mayo alternative, a diet-specific substitution, or you just want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got something you can use here!

Keep reading to see what these mayo alternatives are!

This list includes Greek yogurt, avocado, hummus, tahini, mustard, mashed avocado and Greek yogurt, cashew cream, coconut cream, Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard, applesauce, pesto, yogurt and lemon juice, silken tofu, ranch dressing, and sunflower seed butter.

Each substitute has its unique flavor and texture, and I guarantee you’ll find a new favorite among them.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a popular and nutritious substitute for mayonnaise. It has a creamy texture and tangy flavor that works well in salads, dressings, and dips. Plus, it has the extra benefit of some extra protein, which naturally makes it a healthy choice.

If you want to use Greek yogurt as a sub for mayo, try mixing your Greek yogurt with herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives to make a flavorful homemade spread or dip. It can also be used as a base for creamy dressings, such as ranch or Caesar, by adding in garlic, lemon juice, and even some Parmesan cheese.

You can also use Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayo in salad. For example, if you want to make a healthier take on chicken or tuna salad, swap out the mayonnaise for some Greek yogurt! Add in some chopped celery, onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice for some extra flavor.

Overall, Greek yogurt is a very easy way to substitute for mayonnaise especially in as a dip, spread or in chicken and tuna salads.

A 1:1 ratio works well here!

Avocado

Avocado is a healthy fruit that can be used as a replacement for mayonnaise in a pinch. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent choice for sandwiches, wraps, and even as the base for homemade salad dressings.

What’s more, avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin K, folate and antioxidants.

How to use Avocado as a Mayonnaise Substitute

Using avocado as a stand in for mayonnaise is easy. To make a delicious avocado spread, simply mash a ripe avocado with a fork, then season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other flavorings like lemon juice, garlic powder, or herbs like cilantro or parsley.

This avocado spread works well as a sandwich filling or topping for burgers or hot dogs.

You can also use avocado as a dip for veggies or as a base for dressings and sauces. If you need a quick dressing to replace a mayo dressing you can use ripe avocado, lime juice, olive oil and fresh dil to make the best healthy avocado salad dressing!

Hummus

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern spread made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil which has a creamy and smooth texture that makes it an excellent substitute for mayonnaise.

Like avocado, hummus makes a great mayo substitute if you’re on a vegetarian, vegan, or even a gluten-free diet.

How to Use Hummus as a Substitute for Mayonnaise

Hummus can be used in a variety of ways to substitute for mayonnaise. Here are some ideas:

Sandwiches and wraps:

Spread hummus on bread or tortilla wraps as a base and add your favorite fillings such as veggies, chicken, or turkey.

Salads:

Use hummus as a salad dressing by thinning it with some water or olive oil then drizzling it over your salad.

Dips:

Use hummus as a dip for veggies or pita chips instead of traditional mayonnaise-based dips.

Tahini

Tahini, which is a paste made from ground sesame seeds is another excellent substitute for mayonnaise.

How to use tahini as a substitute for mayonnaise

Since tahini is thicker than mayonnaise, it’s best to dilute it with some water or lemon juice before using it in recipes.

Here are some ways to use tahini as a substitute for mayonnaise:

• Use it as a spread in sandwiches or wraps
• Whisk it into a salad dressing or dip
• Spread it on top of grilled meat or vegetables as a sauce

Mustard

If you have some mustard, you can use this as another good mayonnaise substitute in a variety of dishes. Not only does it add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to sandwiches and burgers, but it can also be used to make dressings and sauces.

Mustard Dipping Sauce

To make a simple mustard dipping sauce, combine yellow mustard, honey, and plain Greek yogurt. This combination creates a sweet and tangy sauce that pairs well with chicken tenders, burgers, and even pretzels.

Mashed Avocado and Greek Yogurt

You can also use a combination of mashed avocado and Greek yogurt to make a healthy, quick and creamy alternative to mayonnaise. This combination is perfect for you if you’re looking for something a bit on the healthy side.

How to Make Mashed Avocado and Greek Yogurt

This take less than 2 minutes to make. Simply mash one ripe avocado in a bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the mashed avocado along with some lime juice, garlic powder and salt and mix well.

This is a healthy spread that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, wraps, and as a dip for veggies.

Cashew Cream

Cashew cream is a great vegan-friendly substitute for mayonnaise. To make cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with water, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. This mixture will create a smooth and creamy texture perfect for spreads, dressings, and dips.

Why Cashew Cream is a Great Substitute for Mayonnaise

Cashew cream has a similar texture to mayonnaise, but it’s much healthier. Cashews are a great source of healthy fats and protein, making it a nutritious alternative to mayonnaise. Plus, it’s dairy-free and vegan-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.

You can use cashew cream in a variety of recipes that call for mayo such as for making creamy salad dressings, sandwich spreads, and dips. You can also use it as a base for vegan aioli or ranch dressing.

Coconut Cream

Although coconut cream has a coconut-y flavor, it can be used as an effective mayo substitute in a pinch.

What is coconut cream?

Coconut cream is that thick and creamy part of coconut milk that rises to the top when the coconut milk is left to settle or is chilled.

Coconut creamy is not a perfect match for mayo, as it does have that strong tropical flavor, but you can use it to make a healthy spreads for your sandwiches, healthy dips or healthy salads dressing that aren mayo based.

Basic Coconut Cream “Mayo” Recipe:

Ingredients:

• ½ cup coconut cream (the thick part from a chilled can)
• 1–2 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for tang)
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste
• (Optional) A pinch of garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.

Greek Yogurt and Dijon Mustard

If you’re looking for a tangy and creamy alternative to mayonnaise, mix Greek yogurt with Dijon mustard.

Use this mixture as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for veggies. You can also add some minced garlic or chopped herbs to give it even more flavor.

Applesauce

Applesauce is a might not sound like it, but it can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise, especially in baked recipes. Like mayo, applesauce can add moisture to cakes, muffins, and even bread without the added fat and calories of mayonnaise.

When substituting applesauce for mayonnaise in recipes, use a 1:1 ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of mayonnaise, use 1 cup of applesauce instead.

Applesauce is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, as it is low in fat and calories. One cup of mayonnaise contains approximately 1,440 calories and 160 grams of fat, while one cup of unsweetened applesauce contains only 100 calories and less than 1 gram of fat. Therefore, substituting applesauce for mayonnaise can help reduce the caloric and fat content of your recipes without sacrificing flavor and texture.

When using applesauce as a substitute for mayonnaise, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of your recipe. However, for many baking recipes, the substitution works well and can even enhance the overall flavor and moistness of your baked goods.

Pesto

If you enjoy Italian cuisine, you might already know about pesto. This flavorful sauce is made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Pesto can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise which adds that Italian flavor to your sandwiches and wraps. It also works well as a dip for vegetables or as a salad dressing when mixed with a little bit of vinegar.

When using pesto as a substitute for mayonnaise, keep in mind that it has a more intense flavor than mayonnaise. So, if you’re not used to its taste, start with a small amount and gradually increase it until you find the perfect balance.

Yogurt and Lemon Juice

Another easy mayo substitute is a mix of mix plain yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice. This combination is perfect for a healthy options for salads, dressings, and dips.

How to Use Yogurt and Lemon Juice to Sub for Mayo

• Use this easy mixture as a healthy salad dressing without mayo. To to so, whisk together 1/2 cup of yogurt and 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice as well as some salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
• Use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps by combining yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped herbs such as dill or parsley.
• Use as a dip for veggies, crackers, or pita chips by blending yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor until smooth.

Silken Tofu

If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly alternative to mayonnaise, silken tofu is a great option. Silken tofu has a smooth and creamy texture when blended, making it a perfect substitute for mayonnaise in dips and dressings. It’s also low in calories and high in protein!

How to Use Silken Tofu as a Substitute for Mayonnaise

Silken tofu can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in salad dressings. Here is how you make it:

ngredients:

• ½ cup silken tofu
• 1½ tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for richness)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 small clove garlic (or ¼ tsp garlic powder)
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Then taste and tweak until it is to your liking

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is a popular condiment that can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise because it is creamy, tangy and works well for sandwiches, salads, and as a dip for veggies.

Ranch dressing is mostly made of sour cream and mayonnaise. Therefore, if you’re looking for alternative to mayo because you want to cur mayo out of your diet, this is not the mayo substitute for you.

However, if you’re looking for mayo substitutes simply because you’re out of the stuff, then ranch dressing is a great choice for you!

When using ranch dressing as a substitute for mayonnaise, keep in mind that it has a stronger flavor. Consider using it in moderation or mixing it with other ingredients to balance out the taste.

Sunflower Seed Butter

Sunflower seed butter makes a great spread for sandwiches, wraps, and even as a dip for veggies. Its rich and nutty flavor complements sweet and savory dishes, and it’s packed with healthy fats and protein making it a great mayo substitute.

How to Make Sunflower Seed Butter

Making sunflower seed butter at home is easy. All you need is a food processor or high-speed blender and the following ingredients:

• 2 cups roasted sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup oil (such as vegetable or coconut oil)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Simply blend the sunflower seeds in a food processor or high-speed blender until they break down and become a paste. Add the oil and salt and blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

There you have it! 16 amazing ways to replace mayonnaise if you have dietary restrictions or are simply out of mayo!

Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe

If you’re looking for a mayo substitute simply because you’ve ran out (and not for dietary purposes) then the closest match is your own homemade mayo. Homemade mayo is easy to make (it only needs a handful of ingredients and 10 minutes of your time. And of course and immersion blender, magic bullet blender or some elbow grease.

If you want to try you own easy at home mayo, then check out my recipe here: