If you're looking to add flavor and nutrition to your salads or dishes, look no further than Green Goddess Dressing. With just 64 calories per tablespoon (15 grams), this flavorful dressing is a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative.
Not only is Green Goddess Dressing low in calories, it's also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following a low-carb or low-fat diet. Plus, it's packed with flavor and contains several vitamins and minerals.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of Green Goddess Dressing, how it can be incorporated into your meals, alternatives to Green Goddess Dressing, the benefits and potential downsides of consuming it, and a recipe for making it at home.
Calories in Green Goddess Dressing
As mentioned earlier, a tablespoon (15 grams) of Green Goddess Dressing contains 64 calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to add flavor to their meals without consuming excessive calories. However, it's still important to be mindful of portion sizes if you're trying to maintain a calorie-controlled diet.
Fats in Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing is relatively low in fat, with one tablespoon (15 grams) containing just 7 grams of fat. The majority of these fats are unsaturated, which are considered to be heart-healthy. However, it's still important to be mindful of portion sizes if you're watching your fat intake.
Carbohydrates in Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing is relatively low in carbohydrates, with one tablespoon (15 grams) containing just 1 gram of carbs. This makes it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. However, it's still important to be mindful of portion sizes if you're trying to maintain a strict carb-controlled diet.
Protein in Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing is not a significant source of protein, with one tablespoon (15 grams) containing less than 1 gram. If you're looking to add more protein to your meals, consider pairing the dressing with a protein-rich dish, such as chicken or tofu.
Vitamins and Minerals in Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing contains several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, and iron. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision and skin, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells and helps to prevent anemia.
How to incorporate Green Goddess Dressing in your meals
Green Goddess Dressing is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. One simple way to incorporate it into your meals is to use it as a salad dressing. It also makes a great dip for veggies or a tasty spread on sandwiches or wraps. You can also use it as a marinade for meat or tofu, or mix it into pasta or grain salads for added flavor.
Alternatives to Green Goddess Dressing
If you're not a fan of Green Goddess Dressing or are looking for other healthy dressing options, there are several alternatives to choose from. Balsamic vinaigrette is a classic option that is low in calories and fat. Greek yogurt dressing is another healthy choice that is high in protein and low in calories. You can also make your own dressing at home using ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
Benefits of Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing has several health benefits. It's low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to manage their weight. It also contains several heart-healthy unsaturated fats and is relatively low in carbs. In addition, it contains several vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining good health.
Potential downsides of Green Goddess Dressing
While Green Goddess Dressing has several health benefits, there are also some potential downsides to consider. The dressing may be high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure in some individuals. It's also important to be mindful of portion sizes, as consuming too much can lead to excessive calorie or fat intake.
How to make Green Goddess Dressing at home
Making Green Goddess Dressing at home is simple and allows you to control the ingredients and nutrition. To make the dressing, simply blend together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 garlic clove, and salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour before using to allow the flavors to meld together.
Green Goddess Dressing is a flavorful and healthy option for adding flavor to your salads and meals. With its low calorie and fat content, as well as its vitamins and minerals, it's a great choice for those looking for a healthier alternative. Plus, it's versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from a salad dressing to a dip or spread.
5 FAQ About Green Goddess Dressing
1. What is Green Goddess Dressing?
Green Goddess Dressing is a classic salad dressing that was first created in the 1920s. It is typically made with a base of mayonnaise or sour cream, and is flavored with herbs such as tarragon, parsley, and chives. The dressing gets its name from its green color, which comes from the abundance of fresh herbs in the recipe.
2. Is Green Goddess Dressing healthy?
While Green Goddess Dressing is certainly tasty, it is not without its drawbacks when it comes to health. The dressing is typically high in calories and fat, and it may also contain added sugars and preservatives. However, if consumed in moderation, Green Goddess Dressing can be a flavorful addition to a balanced diet.
3. What are some ways to use Green Goddess Dressing?
Green Goddess Dressing can be used in many ways beyond just as a dressing for salads. It can be used as a dip for vegetables or potato chips, as a spread for sandwiches, or as a topping for baked potatoes or roasted vegetables. It can also be used to flavor pasta salads or as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.
4. Can Green Goddess Dressing be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Green Goddess Dressing can easily be made vegan or dairy-free by using plant-based ingredients such as non-dairy yogurt or mayonnaise. Simply substitute the dairy ingredients called for in the recipe with their non-dairy equivalents.
5. How long does Green Goddess Dressing last?
Homemade Green Goddess Dressing should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within 5-7 days. If the dressing separates during storage, simply whisk it back together before using. Store-bought Green Goddess Dressing should be used by the expiration date printed on the label.