Ranch dressing is a popular condiment and salad dressing made from a combination of buttermilk, mayonnaise, herbs, and spices. It's often served as a dip for vegetables or as a salad dressing. But how many calories are in a serving of ranch dressing?
A one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 90 calories. That's about five percent of the recommended daily caloric intake for a 2,000 calorie diet. The calorie count for ranch dressing can vary depending on the brand, but it's generally around the same amount. A two-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 180 calories.
Ranch dressing is a high-fat food, with 9 grams of fat in a one-tablespoon serving. Most of that fat is from the mayonnaise and buttermilk, both of which are high in saturated fat. A two-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 18 grams of fat.
In addition to fat, ranch dressing contains a good amount of sodium. A one-tablespoon serving contains about 160 milligrams of sodium, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 320 milligrams of sodium. Eating too much sodium can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Ranch dressing also contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates. A one-tablespoon serving contains about 1 gram of carbohydrates, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 2 grams of carbohydrates. Most of the carbohydrates in ranch dressing come from the buttermilk.
Nutritional Information for Ranch Dressing
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for a one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing:
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 5 milligrams
- Sodium: 160 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugars: 1 gram
- Protein: 1 gram
Health Benefits of Ranch Dressing
Despite its high-fat and sodium content, ranch dressing can be part of a healthy diet. Here are some of the health benefits of eating ranch dressing in moderation:
- A Good Source of Calcium: Ranch dressing is a good source of calcium, with 10% of the daily recommended value in a one-tablespoon serving. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth.
- May Help With Weight Loss: Ranch dressing is low in carbohydrates and calories, so it can be an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight. Just be sure to watch your portion sizes.
- A Source of Healthy Fats: Ranch dressing contains healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Risks of Eating Too Much Ranch Dressing
Although ranch dressing can be part of a healthy diet, it is important to remember that it is high in fat and sodium. Eating too much ranch dressing can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a serving of ranch dressing?
A one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 90 calories, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 180 calories.
How much fat is in a serving of ranch dressing?
A one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 9 grams of fat, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 18 grams of fat.
How much sodium is in a serving of ranch dressing?
A one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 160 milligrams of sodium, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 320 milligrams of sodium.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving of ranch dressing?
A one-tablespoon serving of ranch dressing contains about 1 gram of carbohydrates, and a two-tablespoon serving contains about 2 grams of carbohydrates.
What are the health benefits of eating ranch dressing?
Ranch dressing can be part of a healthy diet. It is a good source of calcium and contains healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
What are the risks of eating too much ranch dressing?
Eating too much ranch dressing can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Is ranch dressing vegan?
No, ranch dressing is not vegan because it contains buttermilk, which is a dairy product.
Is ranch dressing gluten-free?
Most brands of ranch dressing are gluten-free, but it's important to check the label to make sure.
Can ranch dressing be frozen?
Yes, ranch dressing can be frozen for up to three months. It's best to freeze it in an airtight container.
Can ranch dressing be made without mayonnaise?
Yes, ranch dressing can be made without mayonnaise. Most recipes use plain yogurt or sour cream as a replacement.
How long does ranch dressing last?
Unopened ranch dressing will last up to six months in the refrigerator. Once opened, it should be used within one week.