Hold the Mayo, Please

It is sometimes difficult to make a good sandwich for a person with severe multiple food allergies. While most people focus on the bread, or lack thereof, that is not what I find the most difficult. For me, it is the condiments. A sandwich without a condiment just isn't much of a sandwich at all! In fact, it is just a dry pile of ingredients with nothing to bring it together.

Recently, my husband blessed me with a cooking class at one of my favorite restaurants, Solare. While Italian food isn't typically one of my favorites, the food at this restaurant makes my taste buds dance and beg for more.

In our class, Stefano (the owner and chef) taught us how to make a number of marinades and sauces. While he mainly focused on how to use them for grilling, he also suggested that they make a nice sandwich spread. So, I gave it a try! My little one thought that this was almost as good as her dad's "special" pancakes! I put warm ham slices, lettuce, a bowl of sauce and a basting brush on the table with our safe "bread" then let everyone make their own. This was a first for our family and what fun! With a side of soup, it was the perfect treat.

Here is my allergy-friendly version of a great spread recipe. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and oils that are safe for your family to create a sauce that is all your own.


Parsley-Basil Pesto Sauce
1 bunch parsley
1 bunch basil
2 clove garlic
2T water
1/4 C California rice oil (add more when blending, to taste)
2 T lemon juice
1/2 T salt, adjust to taste

Combine ingredients in your Magic Bullet, blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Taste then adjust salt, oil and other flavors. Spread on your favorite bread substitute and enjoy.