The Best of… Dressings, Condiments, and Spreads

Most of us use marinades, dressings and condiments to enhance the flavor of our food. But be sure to choose
wisely since some of these additions can add extra calories, sodium, and fat. Here are our “Best Of” guidelines for choosing better-for-you marinades, dressings and condiments.

The Best of… Dressing
The ultimate go-to meal for healthy eating is salad! Don’t undo your good intentions by choosing a dressing that’s loaded with saturated fat and calories. Keep portions in check by sticking to 2 tablespoons, about the size of a ping pong ball. Here are our guidelines for choosing a “Best of” dressing:

• Choose an oil based vinaigrette or reduced-fat creamy dressing to cut down on saturated fat
  
• 300mg or less of sodium per 2 tablespoon serving
  
• Aim for 50-100 calories per 2 tablespoon serving

Try: ShopRite Balsamic Vinaigrette, Marie’s Yogurt Dressings, Annie’s Natural Balsamic Vinaigrette,
Newman’s Own Lighten Up Lime Vinaigrette

The Best of… Marinades and Sauces
Marinades can transform any lean cut of meat, poultry or fish into a culinary masterpiece whether you use them for dipping, to enhance flavors or as a sauce to top off the dish! Store bought marinades are great for a tasty dinner in a pinch and tend to be lower in calories than most dressings., Here are our "Best Of” guidelines:

• 300mg or less of sodium per 2 tablespoon serving
  
• 50-100 calories or less per 2 tablespoon serving
  
• 1g or less of saturated fat per 2 tablespoon serving
  

Try: Annie’s Natural Marinades, Dinosaur BBQ Sauce Varieties, McCormick Lemon Herb Marinade

The Best of… Spreads
Spreads are great for cooking, baking or to top your favorite whole grain bread, but it’s important to make sure the ones you choose complement your healthy diet plan. Here are your guidelines for choosing a “Best of” spread:

• 0 grams of trans fat- Scan the ingredient list for products with no “partially hydrogenated” oils.
  Even if the label says 0 grams trans fat, the product may still contain trace amounts. Reading labels
  is the best way to ensure you’re getting a “trans fat free” product.
  
• 1.5 grams or less of saturated sat per serving
  
• 100 calories or less for 1 tablespoon serving
  

Try: Promise or Promise Light, Smart Balance Light or Light with Flax Oil, Benecol or Benecol Light, Brummel and Brown, Hellman’s Light Mayonnaise, ShopRite Mayonnaise Light