Why You’ll Love these Healthy Mayo Recipes
Whether you’re watching your calories or just want to avoid the processed ingredients in store-bought mayonnaise, these healthy mayo alternatives will absolutely transform your sandwiches and salads.
I’ve been making these two recipes for years, and trust me, you won’t miss the traditional stuff.
The avocado version offers that creamy richness we all crave, while the Greek yogurt option brings a tangy twist with considerably less fat. Both come together in minutes, no fancy equipment needed.
And unlike commercial versions with mystery ingredients? You control exactly what goes in.
Perfect for meal prep, too. Simply whip up a batch on Sunday for the week ahead.
What Ingredients are in Healthy Mayo Recipes?
These healthy mayo alternatives rely on nutrient-dense whole foods rather than the processed oils and additives you’ll find in store-bought versions.
The beauty of making your own mayo substitutes is the simplicity—you probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. Both recipes feature heart-healthy fats and protein-packed options that deliver on flavor without compromising your health goals.
Avocado Mayo Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice (plus zest, optional)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1-2 teaspoons water (only if needed to loosen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Greek Yogurt Mayo Ingredients:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
- Salt and pepper to taste
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters. I always recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor profile and health benefits.
For the avocado version, make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe—not too firm or too mushy. With the Greek yogurt option, full-fat versions yield a richer result, though 2% works well if you’re watching calories.
And don’t skip the Dijon mustard; it’s essential for that authentic mayo-like flavor and helps everything emulsify properly.
How to Make these Healthy Mayo Recipes
Making these healthier mayo alternatives couldn’t be simpler, and the results are so worth it. For the avocado mayo, start by adding 1 ripe avocado to your blender or mini food processor along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or avocado oil if you prefer a more neutral flavor).
Add 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice—the zest is optional but adds a lovely brightness—and ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which helps everything emulsify while adding that classic mayo tang. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Blend everything until it’s silky-smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of water, but only if absolutely necessary. The consistency should be creamy and spreadable, not runny.
For the Greek yogurt mayo, the process is even more straightforward. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
This is where technique really matters—slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking constantly to achieve that perfect emulsion. Once combined, add 2 teaspoons of lemon juice (or white wine vinegar if you prefer), and ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
Season with salt and pepper, and if you find it too tangy, a tiny pinch of sugar or honey can balance the flavors beautifully. For a thinner consistency that works well as a dressing, you can add a teaspoon or two of water or milk.
Want to take it up a notch? Stir in some minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a flavor boost.
Both these mayo alternatives should be stored in the refrigerator, but there’s a useful trick for the avocado version—press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container to prevent browning.
The avocado mayo works wonderfully on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps, while the Greek yogurt version makes a fantastic base for dressings and dips.
These recipes prove that “healthy” doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or creaminess. They’re so good, in fact, that you might find yourself wondering why you ever bothered with the store-bought stuff in the first place.
Healthy Mayo Recipes Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about these healthy mayo recipes is how endlessly customizable they’re to suit your dietary needs or what’s already in your pantry.
Can’t do dairy? Swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or silken tofu.
Need it egg-free? The avocado version has you covered.
I often play with different oils too—sometimes avocado oil for its neutral flavor, other times a robust olive oil when I want that Mediterranean vibe.
For more zing, add fresh herbs, minced garlic, or a dash of hot sauce.
Remember that pro tip: slowly whisking oil into yogurt creates that silky texture we all crave.
What to Serve with Healthy Mayo Recipes
Now that you’ve mastered these healthier mayo alternatives, let’s talk about all the delicious foods they complement perfectly.
I personally love slathering the avocado spread on turkey sandwiches or using it as a burger topping—it adds this creamy richness without the guilt.
The Greek yogurt version? Absolute magic with grilled chicken wraps.
Try it on fish tacos or as a dip for sweet potato fries. Sometimes I thin it out for a tangy salad dressing over crisp greens.
Remember that pro tip about slow whisking for smoothness? Worth it when you’re serving something special, like a chilled salmon platter to friends who can’t believe it’s not regular mayo.
Final Thoughts
As you explore these healthier mayo alternatives, I’ve found that the journey toward better eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or creaminess.
The avocado version offers that silky texture we crave, while the Greek yogurt option brings tangy brightness to your favorite dishes.
Remember that patience pays off—whisking oil in slowly creates that perfect emulsion.
Personally, I keep both versions in my fridge for different applications. The avocado-based spread works wonders on sandwiches, while the yogurt version shines in potato salads.
Your taste buds will thank you, and your body might, too.
