Pasta Sauce — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Pasta sauce nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 80 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 11 g | 4% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7.14% |
| Sugars | 7 g | 14% |
| Glycemic Index | 55 | - |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% |
| Sodium | 401 mg | 17.43% |
| Total Fat | 3 g | 3.85% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
55
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
3 g
🥕 Low Fat Content
Pasta sauce facts & tips
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants if made from tomatoes and other vegetables, helping to protect the body from free radicals.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.
- Low in calories, making it a healthy addition to meals.
- Enhances flavor and nutritional value of pasta dishes.
Health risks
- High sodium content in many commercial pasta sauces, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- High sugar content in some commercial pasta sauces, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or colorings in some commercial pasta sauces, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Low nutrient density particularly in sauces with little actual vegetable content, offering limited vitamins or minerals.
How to choose pasta sauce
When choosing a pasta sauce, it should have a rich, vibrant color and a thick consistency that clings well to pasta. The sauce should not separate or have an oily layer on top.
Avoid pasta sauces that are overly watery or have chunks of undissolved tomato or spices. Sauces that have an off smell or visible mold should also be avoided, as they are no longer fresh.
How to store pasta sauce
Pasta sauce should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container after opening. Refrigeration maintains its flavor and prevents spoilage for up to a week. Ensure it is stored in the coldest part of the fridge.
Leaving pasta sauce out at room temperature can cause it to spoil quickly. Avoid using dirty utensils to scoop sauce, as this can introduce bacteria. Always transfer sauce to a clean, airtight container if not using the original jar. Proper storage extends its shelf life and maintains its quality.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Pasta sauce can last for 1-2 years unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 5-7 days. For longer storage, pasta sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover pasta sauce can be used in a variety of savory dishes. Mix it into a baked pasta dish with cooked pasta, cheese, and vegetables, or use it as a base for pizza or flatbreads. Pasta sauce is also great when mixed into soups or stews, adding flavor and richness to the broth.
Use pasta sauce as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables, or mix it into a casserole with grains and cheese. If you have a lot of pasta sauce, consider making a batch of shakshuka by simmering the sauce with poached eggs and spices. Pasta sauce can also be used as a dip for breadsticks, garlic bread, or vegetables, or mixed into a meatloaf or meatball mixture for added moisture and flavor. For a quick snack, reheat pasta sauce and serve it with crusty bread or over cooked pasta.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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