2 Tblsps Spinach Pesto contains 60 calories per serving, making it a great addition to any healthy diet. This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches, and is packed with nutrients.

Spinach, the star ingredient in this pesto, is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that help protect against chronic disease. When combined with heart-healthy olive oil and flavorful herbs, the result is a superfood sauce that tastes great and does great things for your body.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of spinach pesto, its nutritional value, and ways to use it in your cooking. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a tasty and convenient meal option, spinach pesto is sure to impress.

Healthy Ingredients in Spinach Pesto

Spinach pesto is made using fresh spinach, herbs, garlic, olive oil, and nuts or seeds. These ingredients are all nutrient-dense and provide a great balance of healthy fats, protein, and carbs. Spinach is a superstar ingredient, providing essential vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium. The herbs like basil and parsley bring flavor while also delivering antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Garlic is a natural immune booster and has been linked to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Finally, the healthy fats in olive oil and nuts or seeds provide energy and support cardiovascular health. Overall, spinach pesto is a wholesome and delicious sauce that is sure to do your body good.

Calories in Spinach Pesto

Spinach pesto is a low-calorie sauce, making it a great option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Two tablespoons of spinach pesto contain around 60 calories, which is significantly less than traditional basil pesto. The low-calorie count doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor, though. Spinach pesto is just as delicious and versatile as its higher-calorie relatives, and can be used in a wide range of dishes from pasta to sandwiches to salad dressings.

Benefits of Spinach Pesto

Spinach pesto is a healthy and convenient option for those looking to add more nutrients to their diets. Some of the key benefits include: - High in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help protect against disease

Easy To Make Spinach Pesto Recipe

Here's a simple, healthy recipe for homemade spinach pesto: Ingredients: - 2 cups packed fresh spinach leaves - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves - 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts - 2 cloves garlic, chopped - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: 1. In a food processor, combine the spinach, basil, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. 2. Add the parmesan cheese and pulse again until well combined. 3. While the food processor is running, gradually add the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutritional Value of Spinach Pesto

Spinach pesto is a nutritious sauce that provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value of 2 tablespoons of spinach pesto: - calories: 60 - Total fat: 5g - Saturated fat: 1g - Cholesterol: 3mg - Sodium: 95mg - Total carbohydrate: 2g - Dietary fiber: 1g - Sugars: 0g - Protein: 3g As you can see, spinach pesto is a low-calorie sauce that is high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It's also low in sugar and sodium, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their overall diet.

Ways to Use Spinach Pesto

Spinach pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in many different ways. Here are some ideas to get you started: - Toss with pasta for a simple and healthy meal - Spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor - Use as a marinade for chicken or fish - Stir into soups or stews for a boost of nutrients - Drizzle over roasted vegetables for a delicious side dish - Use as a dip for raw veggies or crackers The possibilities are endless, so get creative and experiment with different ways to use this tasty sauce.

Spinach Pesto vs Regular Pesto

While traditional pesto is made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil, spinach pesto swaps out the basil for nutrient-packed spinach. Here are some key differences between the two sauces: - calories: Spinach pesto is lower in calories than traditional pesto, with 60 calories per serving compared to around 120 calories for basil pesto. - Nutrients: Spinach pesto provides a wider range of nutrients than traditional pesto, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. - Flavor: Spinach pesto has a milder, earthier flavor than traditional pesto, making it a great option for those who find regular pesto too strong. Overall, both sauces are delicious and can be used in a variety of ways. The choice between them comes down to personal preference and nutritional goals.

Spinach Pesto as a Weight Loss Food

Spinach pesto is a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. At only 60 calories per serving, it can be used as a low-calorie alternative to other high-fat sauces or dressings. In addition to being low in calories, spinach pesto is also high in fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. The healthy fats in the sauce also provide energy and support cardiovascular health, making it a win-win for weight loss and overall health.

A Great Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Thanks to its nutrient-rich ingredients, spinach pesto is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the key nutrients found in spinach pesto: - Iron: Spinach is a great source of iron, which is important for healthy blood flow and energy levels. - Calcium: Both spinach and parmesan cheese, a key ingredient in pesto, are high in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. - Vitamins A, C, and K: Spinach is packed with these essential vitamins, which support healthy vision, immunity, and blood clotting, respectively. - Healthy fats: Olive oil and nuts or seeds provide healthy fats that support heart health and brain function. Adding spinach pesto to your meals is an easy and delicious way to get more of these nutrients into your diet.

Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Option

Spinach pesto is a great option for those following a vegetarian or gluten-free diet. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, and can be made vegan by omitting the parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. Not only is spinach pesto a delicious and healthy option for those with dietary restrictions, it's also a great way to add variety and flavor to your meals.