When you don’t have ingredients you need, this list of simple substitutes could save mealtime.
Getting a healthy, home-cooked meal on the table fast is a challenge. And “experts” continue to tell us to plan ahead: “Make 32 meals on Sunday!” “Prep everything the minute you walk in from the grocery store!” “Put your kids in charge of dinner a couple nights a week!” All great ideas. But most of us are typically scrambling to make weeknight meals with what’s on hand – even if what’s on hand is two limes, an egg and a bunch of radishes. If you’ve ever pulled out a tried-and-true recipe, only to discover you don’t have everything you need to put it together, this list of substitutes is for you. Fast, delicious and surprising subs to get you from “Oh, darn!” to “Oh, yeah!”Don’t have this: Parmesan cheese Use this: Toasted breadcrumbs Simply heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small pan. Add ½ cup breadcrumbs (prepared or using a slice or two of bread on hand). Add salt and pepper and any other herbs you like. Cook a few minutes until golden!
Don’t have this: Sour cream Use this: Plain yogurt. Don’t be afraid – it really tastes great in recipes that call for sour cream.
Don’t have this: Lemon juice Use this: Vinegar or white wine – cut the amount in half. This works especially well in salad dressings and marinades.
Don’t have this: Mayonnaise Use this: Mashed avocado. This won’t lower the calorie content, but it adds a boost of good fat and yummy flavor.
Don’t have this: An egg Use this: ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce OR ¼ cup of vegetable oil For more help in the kitchen, check out the Substitutions app for iPhone and iPad or the Food Substitutes for Android users.
