Are you someone who loves flavorful dressings but is hesitant to add them to your diet due to their calorie content? Look no further than the delicious Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. In just 2 tablespoons (32 g), this dressing packs only 70 calories, making it a great addition to your meals.

Not only is this dressing low in calories, it also contains healthy fats and a small amount of protein to keep you satisfied. The addition of basil and parmesan add more flavor while the extra virgin olive oil provides benefits for your heart health.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients of Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, its nutritious components, and how you can incorporate it into your diet in a healthy way.

Calorie content in 2 tbsp of the dressing

As mentioned earlier, 2 tablespoons (32 g) of Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains only 70 calories. This means you can add this dressing to your meals without worrying about increasing your calorie intake too much. Compared to other dressings, such as ranch or caesar, which can clock in at over 100 calories for just one tablespoon, this vinaigrette is a healthier option for those looking to watch their weight or maintain a healthy diet.

Fat and protein content of the dressing

While Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil is low in calories, it still contains a moderate amount of healthy fats and protein to keep you full and satisfied. In just 2 tablespoons, there are 7 grams of fat, including 1 gram of saturated fat, and 1 gram of protein. The main source of fat in this dressing is the extra virgin olive oil, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. The protein content, while small, can help to add more substance to your meals and prevent overeating.

Ingredients in Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The main ingredients in Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil include:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Basil

These ingredients create a well-balanced dressing that is both flavorful and nutritious.

Ways to use the dressing

Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a versatile dressing that can be used in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a salad dressing
• As a marinade for chicken or fish
• Tossed with roasted vegetables
• Drizzled over pasta
• As a dip for bread

With its delicious flavor and low calorie count, this dressing can be a great addition to a variety of meals.

Nutritious components in Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains several nutritious components that can benefit your health. Some of these include:

• Extra virgin olive oil, which is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
• Basil, which is a good source of vitamin K and antioxidants
• Parmesan cheese, which is a good source of calcium and protein

These components, along with the low calorie count, make Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette a great choice for those looking to eat healthily.

Possible benefits of using the dressing in your diet

Incorporating Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil into your diet can have several potential benefits, such as:

• Reducing the risk of heart disease due to the heart-healthy fats in olive oil and the calcium in parmesan cheese
• Providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds from the basil and olive oil
• Helping to maintain a healthy weight due to the low calorie count and protein content

These benefits make Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette a great choice for those looking to improve their health and well-being.

Dietary considerations for the dressing

While Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a healthy and low calorie dressing, there are a few things to consider if you have dietary restrictions. For example:

• The parmesan cheese in the dressing makes it unsuitable for those following a vegan diet or those with lactose intolerance
• The garlic in the dressing may be problematic for those with certain digestive issues
• The dressing contains salt, so those on a low-sodium diet should use it in moderation

If you have any dietary restrictions or concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet.

Alternatives to Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

If you're looking for other dressings that are similar to Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, here are a few options:

• Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Lemon Vinaigrette
• Italian Dressing
• Red Wine Vinaigrette

These dressings all contain similar ingredients, such as olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, and can be a great complement to a healthy meal.

Store-bought versus homemade vinaigrette

While store-bought dressings can be convenient, making your own vinaigrette at home can be a healthier and more cost-effective option. Here are a few reasons why:

• By making your own dressing, you can control the ingredients and ensure that they are fresh and healthy
• Homemade dressings are often cheaper in the long run compared to store-bought versions
• When making your own dressing, you can customize it to your taste preferences and dietary restrictions

While it may take a little extra time to make your own vinaigrette, the benefits are worth it in the long run.

Recipe ideas for Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Looking for some inspiration on how to use Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette with Extra Virgin Olive Oil in your meals? Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:

• Caprese salad: Toss together cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with the vinaigrette for a fresh and flavorful salad
• Grilled chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in the vinaigrette for 30 minutes before grilling for a simple and easy dinner
• Roasted vegetables: Toss your favorite veggies with the vinaigrette before roasting in the oven for a tasty and healthy side dish

These recipe ideas are just the beginning. Get creative and see how you can incorporate this delicious and nutritious dressing into your meals.