Side salad with balsamic dressing

Side salad with balsamic dressing

Appetizer

Item Rating: 80/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 70 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 4.5 grams of fat, and 6.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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166.7
calories
2.4
protein
14.3
carbohydrates
10.7
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
166.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 10.7 g 13%
Saturated Fat 1.2 g 6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 285.7 mg 12%
Total Carbohydrates 14.3 g 5%
Dietary Fiber 4.8 g 17%
Sugars 9.5 g
protein 2.4 g 4%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 71.4 mg 5%
Iron 1.2 mg 6%
Potassium 357.1 mg 7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

35.1%
5.9%
59.0%
Fat: 96 cal (59.0%)
Protein: 9 cal (5.9%)
Carbs: 57 cal (35.1%)

About Side salad with balsamic dressing

A side salad with balsamic dressing is a simple yet nutritious accompaniment often found in Mediterranean and Western cuisines. Typically composed of mixed leafy greens, such as spinach, arugula, or kale, and various vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots, it is topped with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Low in calories and rich in nutrients, such as vitamins A and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, this dish supports a balanced diet while delivering essential nutrition. Its light, fresh nature makes it a popular choice worldwide for complementing heavier main courses.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and supports healthy gut function.
  • Provides vitamin A from leafy greens, which is essential for vision and immune health.
  • Contains antioxidants, such as polyphenols from balsamic vinegar, that help combat oxidative stress.
  • A good source of vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
  • Olive oil in the dressing provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains none unless specific ingredients like nuts, dairy, or gluten are added
Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, mediterranean diet
Not suitable for: None unless specific allergens or dietary restrictions apply

Selection and Storage

Store salad components separately to maintain freshness. Keep vegetables refrigerated and dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Common Questions About Side salad with balsamic dressing Nutrition

What are the key nutritional facts of a side salad with balsamic dressing?

A typical side salad with balsamic dressing contains about 50-100 calories, depending on portion size and dressing quantity. It is low in protein (usually 1-2 grams), but rich in vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin C from greens like lettuce, spinach, or kale. The balsamic dressing adds minor amounts of sugar and healthy antioxidants.

Is a side salad with balsamic dressing suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, a side salad with balsamic dressing can be keto-friendly if the dressing has minimal added sugar. Balsamic vinegar itself contains about 2 grams of carbs per tablespoon, which is acceptable for most keto diets. Ensure the salad contains primarily low-carb vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, and celery.

What are the health benefits of eating a side salad with balsamic dressing?

A side salad with balsamic dressing provides essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for weight management. The antioxidants in balsamic vinegar can support heart health, and the fiber from greens aids digestion. However, look out for dressings with high sugar content if monitoring sugar intake.

What is the recommended serving size for a side salad with balsamic dressing?

The recommended serving size for a side salad with balsamic dressing is typically 1 to 1.5 cups of mixed greens and vegetables, dressed with about 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette. This portion provides balanced nutrition without excess calories or fat, suitable as a starter or light side dish.

How does a side salad with balsamic dressing compare to other types of salads?

Compared to heavier salads like Caesar or potato salad, a side salad with balsamic dressing is significantly lower in calories and fat. It has fewer protein options unless additional ingredients like nuts or legumes are included. However, it often contains more vitamins and fiber due to the focus on fresh vegetables.