If you're looking to give your salad or grilled veggies a tangy kick, adding 2 tablespoons or 30ml of balsamic vinaigrette can do the trick. Not only does it add flavor, but it can also change up the nutritional value of your meal. With only 60 calories per serving, balsamic vinaigrette can make the perfect addition to your healthy eating plan.
Balsamic vinaigrette is made with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, oil, and a variety of spices, which can vary depending on the brand. It's important to pay attention to the nutrition facts when choosing a brand to make sure it fits your diet. On average, a 2 tablespoon serving can contain around 5 grams of fat and 0.5 grams of protein. However, this can vary based on the brand.
In this article, we'll dive deeper into the nutrition facts and explore some tasty ways to use balsamic vinaigrette in your cooking.
Calories in Balsamic Vinaigrette
As previously mentioned, balsamic vinaigrette contains approximately 60 calories per 2 tablespoon serving. However, this can vary depending on the brand and specific ingredients used. It's important to check the nutrition label of your chosen brand to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Serving Size of Balsamic Vinaigrette
A serving size of balsamic vinaigrette is typically 2 tablespoons or 30ml. It's important to measure your serving size to ensure you don't accidentally consume more calories, fat, or sodium than intended.
Fat and Protein in Balsamic Vinaigrette
A 2 tablespoon serving of balsamic vinaigrette on average contains approximately 5 grams of fat and 0.5 grams of protein. The specific fat content can vary depending on the type of oil used in the vinaigrette recipe.
Carbohydrates in Balsamic Vinaigrette
Most balsamic vinaigrette recipes have minimal carbohydrates with less than 1 gram per serving size.
Sodium Content in Balsamic Vinaigrette
The sodium content in balsamic vinaigrette can vary based on the brand and individual preferences. On average, 2 tablespoon servings of balsamic vinaigrette may contain around 150-300mg of sodium.
Ingredients in Balsamic Vinaigrette
Balsamic vinaigrette typically contains balsamic vinegar, oil, and a variety of spices. Common ingredients in balsamic vinaigrette include olive oil, garlic, dijon mustard, and honey. However, the specific ingredients can vary based on the brand and personal preferences.
Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinaigrette
Balsamic vinegar has been known to have a variety of health benefits, including aiding in digestion, reducing cholesterol levels, and potentially lowering blood sugar. Additionally, adding balsamic vinaigrette to your salad or grilled vegetables can increase the overall nutrient density of your meal.
How to Use Balsamic Vinaigrette in Cooking
While balsamic vinaigrette is commonly used as a salad dressing, it can also be used in a variety of other dishes. Balsamic vinaigrette can be used as a marinade for meats, as a dip for bread, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
Top Brands of Balsamic Vinaigrette
There are many brands that produce balsamic vinaigrette, including Newman's Own, Annie's, and Primal Kitchen. When choosing a brand, it's important to look at the nutrition label and ingredients to ensure it fits your dietary needs and preferences.
Alternatives to Balsamic Vinaigrette
If you're not a fan of balsamic vinaigrette, there are many other salad dressing options available. Some alternatives include Italian dressing, ranch dressing, or a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing.
Balsamic vinegar is high in acetic acid, which has potent biological effects such as improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels.
5 FAQ about Balsamic Vinaigrette
1. What is Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Balsamic Vinaigrette is a salad dressing made from balsamic vinegar, oil, and other ingredients like herbs, spices, and sweeteners. It is often used as a dressing for salads, vegetables, and other dishes.
2. How many calories are in Balsamic Vinaigrette?
There are 60 calories in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of Balsamic Vinaigrette.
3. Is Balsamic Vinaigrette healthy?
Balsamic Vinaigrette can be a healthy addition to your diet, as it is low in calories and fat. However, some store-bought varieties may contain added sugar or other ingredients that are not as healthy. It is best to check the label and make sure you are using a high-quality, natural brand.
4. How should I use Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Balsamic Vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that can be used in many ways. It is often used as a salad dressing, but can also be used as a marinade for meat or vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.
5. Can I make my own Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Yes, you can easily make your own Balsamic Vinaigrette at home using balsamic vinegar, oil, and other ingredients like garlic, honey, or mustard. This allows you to control the ingredients and the flavor, making it a healthier and more delicious option.