1 Tbsp. (12.0 G) Sour Dressing contains 21 calories. Sour dressing is a popular condiment used in various salads, sandwiches and as a dipping sauce. It adds a tangy flavor that enhances the taste of food.

Made with various ingredients, sour dressing has different nutritional values depending on the recipe. Some types of sour dressing may contain more calories, fat or sodium than others. However, rich in vitamins and minerals, sour dressing provides several health benefits.

In this article, we will cover everything you should know about sour dressing including its nutritional value, health benefits, types, and making your own sour dressing at home.

Calories in Sour Dressing

Sour dressing contains an average of 21 calories per tablespoon. The calorie count may vary depending on the type and recipe of the dressing. For instance, sour cream-based dressing may have more calories than vinaigrette or low-fat yogurt-based dressing. If you are on a calorie-restricted diet, it is recommended to read the nutritional label and watch your serving size when using sour dressing.

Benefits of Sour Dressing

Sour dressing has several benefits that make it a healthy addition to meals. It is high in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, iron, and zinc that boost immunity and promote healthy skin and hair. Sour dressing also contains probiotics, which improves digestion and absorption of nutrients. Additionally, the sour taste in vinegar-based dressings helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes weight loss by reducing food cravings and increasing feelings of fullness.

Recipes with Sour Dressing

Sour dressing can be used in several recipes to add flavor and texture to food. It can be used as a salad dressing, dipping sauce, or marinade for meat or vegetables. Here's a simple recipe for a homemade sour dressing: Ingredients: 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Directions: In a mixing bowl, whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Serve chilled.

Types of Sour Dressing

There are several types of sour dressing available in the market, each with its distinct flavor and nutrition. Some popular sour dressings are vinaigrette, Caesar salad dressing, sour cream-based dressing, and yogurt-based dressing. Choose a dressing that complements the taste of your dish and fits your dietary needs.

Health Concerns with Sour Dressing

Although sour dressing has several health benefits, it may also cause health concerns for some people. Sour dressings that are high in sodium and fat may increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. Additionally, people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should avoid sour cream-based dressings. It is essential to choose sour dressings that fit your dietary needs and watch the serving size.

Alternative Dressings to Sour Dressing

If you want to opt for healthier or dairy-free dressing alternatives to sour dressing, here are some options: Balsamic vinaigrette, olive oil, honey mustard, avocado dressing, and tahini dressing are some of the healthy and delicious dressings that you can try. These dressings are lower in calories and fat and packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to meals.

Making Sour Dressing

Making sour dressing at home is a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh and healthy dressing. You can use various ingredients like vinegar, lemon, mustard, yogurt, honey, and herbs to make your sour dressing. Here's a simple recipe for a homemade vinaigrette dressing: Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Directions: In a mixing bowl, whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Serve chilled.

Storing Sour Dressing

Proper storage of sour dressing ensures its freshness and longevity. Homemade dressings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. On the other hand, store-bought dressings usually come with a use-by date, and you should follow the instructions given on the label before consuming.

Serving Suggestions for Sour Dressing

Sour dressing can be used in different ways to add flavor and texture to food. It can be drizzled over salads, used as a dipping sauce for sandwiches, veggies, or chips, or used as a marinade for grilled meats. Its tangy and flavorful taste adds a kick to any dish, making it a versatile condiment to have in your pantry.

Sour Dressing vs Regular Dressing

Sour dressing and regular dressing differ in taste, nutrient content, and texture. Regular dressings usually contain more calories, fat, and sugar than sour dressings. Sour dressings, on the other hand, are low in calories, fat, and sugar, making them a healthier alternative. Additionally, sour dressings usually have a tangy and sharp taste, while regular dressings can be sweet or savory. Choose a dressing that meets your dietary needs and complements your food's taste.