TAKE OFF THE LETTUCE AND TOMATO FOR NOW

IF IT'S A BURGER, CRABCAKE SANDWICH OR A TURKEY CLUB, WE WANT INGREDIENTS THAT OFFER FLAVOR AND TEXTURE TO ENHANCE THE SANDWICH.

WHEN LETTUCE AND TOMATO PRICES SKYROCKET THE WAY THEY HAVE, TAKE THEM OFF THE SANDWICH AND OFFER SOME CREATIVE SOLUTIONS.

TAKE A LOOK AT THE LIST BELOW.

Adding just the right condiment to the bread can send a sandwich into the stratosphere of gastronomic delight -- or doom it to a quick meal one just gets through. It can add the right counterpoint of flavor, whether that flavor is salty, sweet, tangy or some combination thereof. So when you are considering your sandwich for today's lunch, really consider the condiment.

Sandwich condiment 1: Ketchup

Long since a favorite condiment on all kinds of foods, ketchup isn't often your first thought when it comes to a sandwich, but why not? If you love it, use it! And with the rise of specialty ketchups -- or even homemade ones -- you're in for a real flavor treat. 

Sandwich condiment 2: Mustard

Mustard, in all its varieties adds a sharp counterpoint to many sandwiches. And with so many varieties from stone-ground to honey mustard to flavored mustards, you're sure to find a mustard that's your sandwich favorite. Try cranberry mustard on your post-Thanksgiving sandwich, for example. 

Sandwich condiment 3: Mayonnaise/Aioli

Although mayonnaise can be heavy if used to excess, it provides a creamy balance for some sandwiches. Aioli, mayonnaise's cousin, brings a similar texture, but with slightly less heaviness. 

Sandwich condiment 4: Pickle relish

If you love briny pickled foods, pickle relish is likely your friend on the sandwich. Although typically used with hot dogs and sausages, what's to say you can't add your favorite pickle based condiment to any sandwich? 

Sandwich condiment 5: Hummus

Hummus is a terrific condiment for both vegetarian and  non-vegetarian sandwiches. A smooth, garlicky hummus with some lemon tang and cumin spice can be terrific on a burger, for example. Or keep it traditional and use it in a pita pocket with fresh tomato and cucumbers. 

Sandwich condiment 6: Guacamole

The creamy deliciousness of guacamole isn't just for the burrito-loving crowd. Guacamole is excellent on a BLT, for example, or paired with sliced turkey. 

Sandwich condiment 7: Pesto

Pestos are not just for pastas, they are for sandwiches, too. Try a basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto on a caprese sandwich for garden fresh flavor and balance. 

Sandwich condiment 8: Balsamic vinaigrette

Using balsamic vinaigrette on a sandwich adds moisture and depth of flavor you might not expect from a mere sandwich. Use it sparingly though because too much moisture can turn a delicious sandwich into a soggy mess! 

Sandwich condiment 9: Ranch dressing

Ranch dressing -- but just about any salad dressing, really -- can add a tangy punch to a sandwich. Try it on a chicken cutlet wrap or in a vegetarian pocket. 

Sandwich condiment 10: Tapenade

Tapenade, the paste made of chopped olives, capers and anchovies can really kick up the flavor a notch -- or two. Since this provencal treat is typically spread on bread, taking it to the sandwich is a natural progression.

Posted by Chef Bill Brooks, Corporate Chef, U.S. Foodservice, Inc

Opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily

reflect those of U.S. Foodservice, Inc