5 Never-Boring Condiment Ideas to Upgrade Any Sandwiches

We've teamed up with the condiment superstars at Boar's Head to help you stock your fridge and pantry with the best sauces, spreads, and other fixings. Once you've got your topping situation covered, the rest is easy—their new FireSmith™ Flame Grilled Chicken Breast is the perfect protein to round out your meal.

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We’re in the golden era of sandwiches. Long gone are the days of lackluster paper bag lunches—today, it's all about making the most of every meal, sandos included.

There are a few tenets to keep in mind when building a sandwich. It’s important to consider not only the flavor profile of your ingredients, but also the texture that they’ll add. A great sandwich will include a combination of salty, crunchy, and creamy. Sure, regular ol’ sandwich bread is fine, but why not try a crusty sourdough loaf, griddled rosemary focaccia, or toasted challah instead? Choosing a base protein with a lot of flavor is another key component of a solid sandwich, which is why we love FireSmith™ Flame Grilled Chicken Breast. Greens aren’t always crucial, but we love the peppery kick from a handful of arugula, or some crisp romaine to add a refreshing crunch. When it comes to cheese, like tangy Vermont White Cheddar and creamy Smoked Gouda, Boar’s Head also has plenty of options to choose from.

While the elements above are of the utmost importance, the real game changer in transforming a good sandwich into a great sandwich comes down to the condiments. From ready-made condiments to zippy spreads and other easy DIY recipes, read on to find out how to take your sandwich to the next level.

1. Classic Condiments

It’s a no-brainer that every good sando requires condiments. Stock your fridge with high-quality basics, like the classic Boar’s Head Real Mayonnaise and Delicatessen Style Mustard. If I’m looking for something a bit different, I love a smear of their Bold Fiery Chipotle Gourmaise or Pepperhouse Gourmaise. Don’t forget to think outside the box, too. A meat-heavy sandwich can benefit from vinegary barbecue sauce to cut the fat, and a dollop of horseradish is a great way to pack some heat.

2. Simple Upgrades

If you’ve got a few extra minutes, then you can transform classic condiments into swoon-worthy spreads. Easily make your own dijonnaise by spiking your favorite aioli with Dijon mustard, or try your hand at homemade thousand island dressing by combining mayonnaise with ketchup and chopped Boar’s Head Dill Pickles. Whip up this Spanish-inspired aioli by adding garlic, lemon juice, and smoked pimentón to mayo. If you’re mayo-averse but still want to get creative, try making a curried ketchup by combining Old Bay seasoning, brown sugar, honey, and of course, curry powder.

3. Spreads & Sauces

I love thinking of ways to extend the life of ingredients or dishes, and leftover sauces are an easy way to add even more flavor to your sandwiches. Make use of extra chimichurri by adding it to a steak sandwich. Last night’s pesto pairs perfectly with Boar’s Head FireSmith™ Flame Grilled Chicken Breast, sun-dried tomatoes, and melty mozzarella. Toum, the Lebanese garlic spread, and beet hummus gives sandwiches a Middle Eastern flair. If you want the same flavor profile with less hassle, try Boar’s Head’s line up of Traditional Hummus and Tzatziki Greek Yogurt Dip.

4. Punchy Plus Ones

I’m of the belief that something pickled belongs in every meal, but I especially love adding it to sandwiches because the acidity and crunch are always welcome contrasts. When thinking of what pickled item to add, you can’t go wrong with Boar’s Head Bread & Butter Pickle Chips. That said, there’s so much room to experiment here. Quick-pickled apples pair well with turkey and Brie, pickled peppers add the right amount of heat to a sandwich layered with slices of sharp cheddar, and pickled asparagus is particularly perfect on a veggie sandwich.

5. A Touch of Sweetness

A good sandwich is all about balance, and depending on your fillings, toppings that add sweetness might be just the thing to round things out. Caramelized onions add a sweet savoriness to patty melts, French dips, and even cold cuts. Jam isn’t just for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—bacon jam will elevate a BLT, and raspberry jam is essential for a Monte Cristo. Tomato jam adds an umami bomb of flavor in any preparation it’s used in, plus it’s a great way to use up all those in-season tomatoes.

What are your favorite condiments? Tell us in the comments below!

Our friends at Boar's Head have been producing high-quality meats, cheeses, condiments, and more for over 115 years. As master craftsmen in their industry, Boar's Head uses time-honored recipes as well as innovative takes on classics, like their new FireSmith™ Flame Grilled Chicken Breast. Ready to get cooking? Find Boar's Head near you by visiting their site.