If you're watching your calorie intake, you'll be interested to know that a 1/4 cup (60 g) serving of Rustic Basil Pesto packs 190 calories. But don't let that scare you off – this delicious sauce can add plenty of flavor to your meals while also providing some health benefits.

Besides the calorie count, Rustic Basil Pesto is also high in fat – each serving contains 18 g. However, most of this fat is unsaturated, which can actually help lower your cholesterol levels. The sauce also contains 4 g of protein and 2 g of carbohydrates, making it a relatively balanced option for a condiment.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of Rustic Basil Pesto, as well as some creative ways to use it in your cooking. We'll also explore some of the health benefits that this flavorful sauce can provide.

Caloric Value

As mentioned, a 1/4 cup (60 g) serving of Rustic Basil Pesto contains 190 calories. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that the sauce is meant to be used as a condiment rather than a main dish. If you're trying to reduce your calorie intake, you can use smaller amounts of the sauce, mix it with other ingredients, or try a low-calorie alternative like pesto made with spinach instead of basil.

Fat Content

As mentioned, Rustic Basil Pesto is high in fat, with 18 g of fat per serving. However, most of this fat comes from heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in the olive oil and pine nuts used to make the sauce. These fats can help lower your risk of heart disease and promote overall health. Just be sure to use the sauce in moderation if you're watching your fat intake.

Protein Content

While Rustic Basil Pesto isn't a major source of protein, it does contain 4 g of protein per serving. This isn't bad for a condiment, but if you're looking to boost your protein intake, you'll want to combine the sauce with other protein-rich ingredients like chicken, tofu, or nuts.

Carbohydrate Content

With just 2 g of carbohydrates per serving, Rustic Basil Pesto is a relatively low-carb food. This can make it a good choice for people following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, be aware that the sauce does contain some natural sugars from the herbs and garlic used to make it.

Vitamin Content

Basil is a good source of vitamins A, C and K, all of which are important for various aspects of health. However, since you typically only use a small amount of Rustic Basil Pesto at a time, it isn't a major source of vitamins. That said, every little bit helps!

Mineral Content

Rustic Basil Pesto contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. While these minerals aren't present in large enough quantities to make a significant contribution to your daily intake, they can still help support good health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Size and Calories

To keep your calorie intake under control when using Rustic Basil Pesto, it's important to pay attention to your serving size. While 1/4 cup (60 g) is the standard serving size used for nutrition information, you may be able to get by with less depending on your personal taste preferences and the dish you're making. For example, if you're making a salad and using the pesto as a dressing, you may only need a few tablespoons to add plenty of flavor. On the other hand, if you're using the sauce as a base for a pizza or pasta dish, you'll likely need a larger amount to cover the surface area. Be sure to adjust your serving size accordingly to keep your calorie intake in check.

Ways to Use Rustic Basil Pesto

Rustic Basil Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some popular options include:

• Spread on toast or crackers
• Tossed with pasta or zucchini noodles
• Used as a pizza sauce or topping
• Smeared on grilled chicken or fish
• Mixed with quinoa or brown rice

Health Benefits of Basil Pesto

In addition to being delicious, Rustic Basil Pesto can provide several health benefits. For example, basil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis and asthma. The garlic used in the sauce can also help boost your immune system and may have anti-cancer effects. Additionally, the olive oil used in the sauce is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that can benefit your heart, brain, and overall health. Just be sure to choose a high-quality olive oil to maximize these benefits.

Ingredients of Rustic Basil Pesto

Rustic Basil Pesto is typically made from a combination of fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Some variations may also include other herbs like parsley or cilantro, or swap out the pine nuts for a nut-free alternative like sunflower seeds. If you're making your own pesto at home, you can experiment with different flavor combinations until you find your perfect mix.