When you're looking to add some zest to your salad, a serving of 2 oz (57g) of Southwest Vinaigrette dressing can do the trick. But what's the nutritional value of this popular dressing? Let's take a closer look! With 160 calories per serving, this dressing can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

In addition to calories, Southwest Vinaigrette contains 16 grams of fat and 2 grams of carbs per serving. It also has 1 gram of protein and 10 milligrams of cholesterol.

You can taste the unique blend of flavors in this dressing, from the heat of chili peppers to the tang of vinegar, but it's also important to keep track of the nutritional facts before indulging. Read on for more nutritional information and serving suggestions.

Calories in Southwest Vinaigrette

As mentioned, a 2 oz (57g) serving of Southwest Vinaigrette contains 160 calories. This amounts to 8% of your daily recommended intake based on a 2000 calorie diet. Be mindful of portion size when using this dressing, as a larger serving can quickly add up in terms of calories. It's worth noting that calories alone don't tell the whole story when it comes to nutrition. It's important to also look at the other nutritional components of this dressing to make informed decisions about your diet.

Fat Content of Southwest Vinaigrette

Southwest Vinaigrette is a high-fat dressing, with 16 grams of fat per serving. However, not all fats are created equal. The majority of the fat in this dressing is monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, which are considered healthier fats than saturated and trans fats. These types of fats can help decrease bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Still, it's important to consume fats in moderation, and to balance them out with other important nutrients.

Carbohydrates in Southwest Vinaigrette

For those following a low-carb diet, Southwest Vinaigrette may be a good choice as it contains only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving. That said, carbs are an important nutrient for energy, so it's important not to completely eliminate them from your diet. If you're watching your carb intake, try pairing this dressing with a salad that includes low-carb vegetables like spinach, cucumbers, and tomatoes.

Protein Content of Southwest Vinaigrette

While not a significant source of protein, Southwest Vinaigrette does contain 1 gram of protein per serving. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, so be sure to incorporate other protein-rich foods into your diet as well.

Cholesterol Amount in Southwest Vinaigrette

A serving of Southwest Vinaigrette contains 10 milligrams of cholesterol. While the American Heart Association recommends limiting cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams per day, it's important to note that dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol than saturated and trans fats. If you're looking to reduce your cholesterol intake, consider pairing this dressing with a salad that includes cholesterol-lowering foods like leafy greens, berries, and nuts.

Sodium in Southwest Vinaigrette

A serving of Southwest Vinaigrette contains 300 milligrams of sodium. While some sodium is necessary for proper bodily functions, excess sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. If you're looking to watch your sodium intake, consider using a smaller amount of this dressing or pairing it with low-sodium ingredients like fresh herbs or grilled vegetables.

Fiber Content of Southwest Vinaigrette

Unfortunately, Southwest Vinaigrette contains no fiber. Fiber is important for digestion and can also help you feel fuller longer, so be sure to include other high-fiber foods in your meal.

Vitamins and Minerals in Southwest Vinaigrette

While not a significant source of vitamins or minerals, Southwest Vinaigrette does contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and vitamin C. It's important to note that most of the nutrients in your diet should come from whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. However, incorporating flavorful dressings like Southwest Vinaigrette can make those healthy foods more enjoyable to eat.

Allergen Information in Southwest Vinaigrette

Southwest Vinaigrette contains soy and egg, so those with allergies to those ingredients should avoid this dressing. Always be sure to read the ingredient list and allergen information before consuming any food product.

Serving Suggestions for Southwest Vinaigrette

Southwest Vinaigrette can be used not just as a salad dressing, but as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish, a dip for veggies or chips, or as a flavorful marinade. Try mixing it with Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing with added protein, or blending it with avocado for a healthy and delicious dip.