1 serving (62 grams) contains 240 calories, 4.0 grams of protein, 24.0 grams of fat, and 4.0 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
923.1 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 92.3 g | 118% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.4 g | 77% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 19.2 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 1384.6 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.4 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g | 13% | |
| Sugars | 3.8 g | ||
| protein | 15.4 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 307.7 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 230.8 mg | 4% | |
* 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
About Basil pesto sauce
Basil pesto sauce is a traditional Italian condiment originating from Genoa in the Liguria region. Featuring fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this sauce complements pasta, sandwiches, and various dishes. Pesto is rich in unsaturated fats from olive oil and pine nuts, aiding heart health, and provides vitamins A and K from basil, which support eye health and blood coagulation. Parmesan adds protein and calcium vital for muscle function and bone strength. While flavorful and nutrient-dense, pesto is also calorie-rich due to its fat content, so portion control is recommended.
Health Benefits
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and pine nuts, which can help reduce LDL cholesterol.
- Contains high levels of vitamin K from basil, contributing to blood clotting and bone health.
- Provides calcium from Parmesan cheese, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store homemade pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can freeze pesto in ice cube trays for longer storage and defrost as needed.
Common Questions About Basil pesto sauce Nutrition
Is basil pesto sauce high in protein?
Basil pesto sauce is not particularly high in protein, as it typically contains about 3-4 grams of protein per 2-tablespoon serving. The protein comes mainly from nuts like pine nuts or walnuts and sometimes cheese like Parmesan, common in traditional recipes.
Can I eat basil pesto sauce on a keto diet?
Yes, basil pesto sauce is compatible with a keto diet. It is low in carbohydrates, containing about 2-3 grams of carbs per 2-tablespoon serving, and is high in healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, making it an excellent keto-friendly condiment.
What are the health benefits or concerns of basil pesto sauce?
Basil pesto sauce can offer health benefits such as providing healthy unsaturated fats from olive oil and nuts, antioxidants from fresh basil, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium. However, it can also be high in sodium and calories due to added cheese and oil, so portion control is key.
What is the recommended serving size of basil pesto sauce?
A typical serving size of basil pesto sauce is about 2 tablespoons, which contains around 150-200 calories. This amount provides a flavorful addition to dishes like pasta, salads, or grilled vegetables without significantly increasing calorie intake.
How does basil pesto sauce compare to marinara sauce?
Basil pesto sauce is higher in calories and fat than marinara sauce, as it is oil-based, with about 150-200 calories and 15-18 grams of fat per 2-tablespoon serving. Marinara is typically tomato-based, lower in calories (about 70-80 calories per cup), and contains more carbohydrates but less fat. Both sauces offer unique flavors and can be used differently depending on dietary goals.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
