100 Grams Sauce, Pita Sauce, Lowfat 272 calories. Pita sauce is a flavorful condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including falafel, kebabs, and pita bread. Made with a combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables, this sauce is a healthier option than many other savory sauces. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, low-fat options, ingredient list, healthy benefits, shelf life, and recipe ideas for pita sauce.

Pita sauce is a delicious way to add flavor to your meals. Made mainly of yogurt and cucumber, one tablespoon of pita sauce contains around 10 calories. The sauce also contains essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that your body needs to function properly. Depending on the ingredients used to make it, pita sauce can be a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carb option for people watching their diets.

By incorporating pita sauce into your diet, you can elevate the flavor of your meals without worrying about extra calories. Plus, pita sauce has a number of health benefits that make it a viable option for individuals who want to eat well without sacrificing taste.

What is Pita Sauce?

Pita sauce is a Mediterranean-style condiment made with a combination of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, mint, lemon, and other herbs and spices. Depending on the recipe, pita sauce can be chunky or smooth in texture. Most pita sauce recipes utilize plain Greek yogurt as the base ingredient. The yogurt is combined with grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh mint, and lemon juice. The mixture is then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices as desired. Some recipes call for the addition of tahini, a Middle Eastern paste made from ground sesame seeds, to give the sauce a creamier texture. Regardless of the recipe, pita sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment that brings a unique flavor to a variety of dishes.

Nutritional Information

One tablespoon of pita sauce contains approximately 10 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, and 1 gram of carbs. The sauce is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and vitamin A. While pita sauce is a low-calorie condiment, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind to avoid overconsumption. Too much sauce can quickly add up in terms of calories and fat. It's also worth noting that some store-bought pita sauces may contain added sugars, colors, or preservatives. Be sure to read the label carefully before purchasing to ensure you're getting the healthiest option available.

Low-Fat Option

If you're watching your fat intake, you'll be happy to know that pita sauce can be made as a low-fat option. To cut down on the fat content, opt for nonfat Greek yogurt in place of full-fat yogurt. You can also eliminate or reduce the amount of tahini used in the recipe. Another way to make pita sauce healthier is to add more vegetables to the recipe. Consider adding diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, or shredded carrots to your sauce for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.

How to Use Pita Sauce

Pita sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for incorporating pita sauce into your meals:

• As a dipping sauce for pita bread, veggies, or falafel
• As a salad dressing
• As a marinade for chicken or fish
• As a topping for grilled meat or vegetables
• As a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or burgers

Ingredients Used in Pita Sauce

The ingredients used in pita sauce can vary depending on the recipe. Here are some of the most common ingredients you'll find in pita sauce:

• Plain Greek yogurt
• Cucumber, peeled and grated
• Garlic, minced
• Mint, fresh and chopped
• Lemon juice
• Tahini (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Healthy Benefits of Pita Sauce

Pita sauce has several health benefits that make it a nutritious addition to your diet. Here are a few of the benefits of pita sauce:

• Yogurt is a good source of protein and calcium, which can help with bone health
• Cucumbers are high in water content, which can help with hydration
• Garlic has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
• Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, which can help with collagen production and skin health

Variations of Pita Sauce

While traditional pita sauce is made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, mint, and lemon, there are many variations of the recipe that you can try. Here are a few ideas:

• Add roasted red pepper for a smoky, sweet flavor
• Use pesto in place of mint for a different twist on the recipe
• Add chopped olives or feta cheese for a salty kick
• Blend in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for extra flavor

Shelf Life of Pita Sauce

Homemade pita sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Store-bought pita sauce typically has a longer shelf life, but be sure to check the expiration date before using it. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor, discard the sauce immediately.

Pita Sauce vs Other Sauces

Compared to other savory sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or BBQ, pita sauce is generally a healthier option. This is because it contains less fat and calories than many other sauces, and is often made with fresh, whole ingredients. While some other sauces like hot sauce or mustard may be low in calories, they can be high in sodium or other additives. Pita sauce, on the other hand, is a flavorful but relatively low-sodium condiment that can help you meet your daily vegetable intake.

Recipes Using Pita Sauce

Need some inspiration for how to use pita sauce in your meals? Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:

Falafel Wraps

• Prepare falafel according to package instructions
• Warm pita bread in the oven or microwave
• Spread pita sauce on the inside of the bread
• Add falafel, chopped lettuce, diced tomato, and sliced cucumber
• Drizzle with extra pita sauce and enjoy!

Greek Salad

• In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and chopped tomatoes
• Drizzle pita sauce over the top and toss to coat
• Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives
• Enjoy as a healthy side dish or light lunch