Are you looking for a creamy sauce to elevate your dishes? Look no further than saffron cream sauce! Made with high-quality saffron and rich cream, this sauce adds a touch of elegance to any meal. And the best part? It's only 90 calories per 1/4 cup (62 g) serving.
But saffron cream sauce isn't just delicious—it's also nutritious. Saffron, a spice often used in Mediterranean and Indian cuisine, is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. And while cream might seem indulgent, in moderation it can be part of a healthy diet.
In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about saffron cream sauce—how to make it, its nutritional value, its potential health benefits, and more.
What is Saffron Cream Sauce?
Saffron cream sauce is a luxurious sauce that combines saffron, cream, and a few other ingredients to create a silky, savory topping for pasta, meat, seafood, or vegetables. To make saffron cream sauce, you'll need high-quality saffron threads, heavy cream, white wine, chicken or vegetable stock, garlic, salt, and pepper. The saffron is steeped in the liquid for a few minutes to infuse it with its distinctive flavor and color, before being whisked into the cream and other seasonings. The result is a velvety, aromatic sauce that's perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
How Many Calories are in Saffron Cream Sauce?
One 1/4 cup (62 g) serving of saffron cream sauce contains roughly 90 calories. It's worth noting, however, that the calorie count can vary depending on the specific recipe you use. Some saffron cream sauces might be higher or lower in calories depending on how much cream or other ingredients are used. If you're watching your calorie intake, be sure to measure your servings carefully and adjust the recipe to meet your needs.
What are the Ingredients of Saffron Cream Sauce?
To make saffron cream sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the wine, stock, garlic, and saffron in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture steep for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. In a separate pan, heat the cream over medium-low heat until warmed through. Whisk the saffron mixture into the cream, stir in the salt and pepper, and serve!
What Dishes Can You Make with Saffron Cream Sauce?
Saffron cream sauce is a versatile topping that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some ideas include:
- Toss it with your favorite pasta for an elegant and decadent main dish.
- Use it to top grilled or roasted vegetables for an easy side dish.
- Drizzle it over seared scallops or shrimp for a restaurant-worthy seafood entree.
- Serve it alongside roasted or grilled chicken for a simple but elegant meal.
The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative with how you use saffron cream sauce in your cooking!
How to Make Saffron Cream Sauce?
Making saffron cream sauce is a simple but elegant process. Here's how it's done:
- Combine the wine, stock, garlic, and saffron in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture steep for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- In a separate pan, heat the cream over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- Whisk the saffron mixture into the cream, stirring until fully combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
That's it! Your saffron cream sauce is ready to use. If you have any leftovers, be sure to store them properly to maintain their quality and freshness (more on that later).
Is Saffron Cream Sauce Healthy?
While saffron cream sauce might not be the healthiest sauce choice out there, it can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Saffron is a spice with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while cream contains calcium and other nutrients. However, saffron cream sauce is also high in fat and calories, so it's important to enjoy it in reasonable quantities and balance it with other nutritious foods. If you want to make a healthier version of saffron cream sauce, consider using low-fat milk or a plant-based milk (like almond or soy) instead of cream, and adding more spices and herbs to enhance the flavor instead of relying solely on saffron.
How to Store Saffron Cream Sauce?
If you have any leftover saffron cream sauce, it's important to store it properly to maintain its quality and freshness. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat it gently over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling or separating. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little bit more stock or wine to thin it out. Do not freeze saffron cream sauce, as the texture will be compromised.
What are the Benefits of Saffron Cream Sauce?
In addition to its delicious flavor, saffron cream sauce has several potential health benefits. Saffron is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage by free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have potential anti-depressant effects. Cream, while high in calories, contains calcium and other nutrients that are important for bone health and overall well-being. By incorporating saffron cream sauce into your meals in moderation, you can enjoy its flavor and reap its potential health benefits.
Are There Any Side Effects of Saffron Cream Sauce?
While saffron cream sauce is generally safe to consume for most people, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Saffron can cause allergic reactions in some people, so be sure to test a small amount before consuming a larger serving. It can also have mild effects on mood and behavior, so avoid consuming too much saffron if you are taking medication for depression or anxiety. Additionally, cream is a high-calorie food that can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. If you are watching your calorie intake or trying to lose weight, it's best to enjoy saffron cream sauce in moderation and balance it with healthier foods like vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
How to Pair Saffron Cream Sauce with Food?
Saffron cream sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, from pasta to seafood to poultry. Here are a few pairing suggestions to get you started:
- Toss it with fettuccine or linguine pasta, and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Drizzle it over grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, and top with chopped hazelnuts or slivered almonds.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for fresh-baked bread or crostini.
- Serve it alongside seared scallops or shrimp, and pair with a glass of dry white wine.
Have fun experimenting with different foods and flavor combinations to find your perfect saffron cream sauce pairing!
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Saffron Cream Sauce
1. What is saffron cream sauce?
Saffron cream sauce is a rich and flavorful sauce made from saffron threads, heavy cream, and other ingredients such as onions, garlic, and white wine. It is often used as a topping for pasta dishes or as a dip for bread or vegetables.
2. How many calories are in saffron cream sauce?
One-fourth cup of saffron cream sauce contains 90 calories. However, the calorie count may vary depending on the specific recipe and the amount used.
3. Is saffron cream sauce healthy?
Saffron cream sauce is not considered a healthy sauce as it is high in calories, fat, and cholesterol. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.
4. Can saffron cream sauce be made without heavy cream?
Yes, saffron cream sauce can be made with lighter alternatives such as half-and-half or milk. However, the texture and flavor of the sauce may differ slightly.
5. What dishes pair well with saffron cream sauce?
Saffron cream sauce pairs well with pasta dishes such as fettuccine and linguine, seafood dishes like scallops and shrimp, and vegetable dishes such as roasted asparagus or mushrooms.