Cratox AI
Reviewed by Cratox Nutrition Team · Updated August 13, 2026

Spaghetti sauce vs Italian dressing, fat free: nutrition compared

Nutrient (per 100 g)Spaghetti sauceItalian dressing, fat free
Calories51 kcal47 kcal
Protein1.4 g1 g
Carbohydrates8.1 g8.8 g
Fat1.5 g0.9 g
Fibre1.8 g0.6 g
Sugar5.5 g8.8 g
Sodium419 mg1130 mg

All values per 100 g. Source: USDA FoodData Central.

spaghetti sauce

Spaghetti sauce

🔥 51 Calories
💪 1.4g Protein
8.1g Carbohydrates
🥑 1.5g Fat

Spaghetti sauce provides 51 kcal per 100 g, with 1.4 g of protein, 8.1 g of carbohydrates and 1.5 g of fat. 1 cup of Spaghetti sauce (260 g) provides about 133 kcal.

At a glance

A fast summary built from the current nutrition profile per 100g.

Category
Condiments & Sauces
Spaghetti sauce
Energy density
Light
51 kcal per 100g
Macro energy profile
Carb-led
11% Protein · 63% Carbohydrates · 26% Fat
Glycemic profile
Low GI
GI 38 · GL 3
Notable signals
Low in fatUSDA data

Nutritional Information

51
kcal/100g
Protein
1.4g
Carbohydrates
8.1g
Fat
1.5g
Glycemic Index:
38

Nutritional Information (per 100g)

NutrientAmount per 100 g
Calories51 kcal
Protein1.4 g
Carbohydrates8.1 g
Fat1.5 g
Fiber1.8 g
Sugar5.5 g
Sodium419 mg

USDA data · USDA FoodData Central

Calories per portion

PortionWeightCalories
1 cup260 g133 kcal
100 g100 g51 kcal

Portion weights: USDA FoodData Central

Portion calculator

Calories
51 kcal
Protein
1.4 g
Carbohydrates
8.1 g
Fat
1.5 g
Fiber
1.8 g
Sugar
5.5 g
Sodium
419 mg

All values are computed from the per-100 g nutrition data (source: USDA).

About Spaghetti sauce

Spaghetti sauce, also known as marinara sauce, is a staple in Italian cuisine and is typically made from tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. The origins of spaghetti sauce can be traced back to Southern Italy, where fresh tomatoes became widely available in the 18th century. This sauce is often served with various pasta dishes, particularly spaghetti, and has gained popularity worldwide as a versatile ingredient in many other recipes such as pizza and casseroles. Nutritionally, spaghetti sauce is low in calories, with approximately 51 calories per 100g serving. It contains a modest amount of protein at 1.4g, carbohydrates at 8.1g, and fats at 1.5g, making it an excellent low-calorie choice for enhancing meals without adding excessive calories. The sauce is also a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, and provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a beneficial addition to various diets.

Health Benefits

Supports heart health due to low saturated fat content.
Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene from tomatoes, which may reduce cancer risk.
Low in calories, aiding in weight management when used in moderation.
Contains dietary fiber that promotes digestive health and regularity.
May help reduce inflammation due to the presence of herbs and spices.
Provides essential vitamins such as Vitamin C, which boosts immune function.
Can enhance the absorption of iron from other meals when paired correctly.
Versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, increasing meal variety.
Easy to prepare and can be made from fresh or canned ingredients.
Low sodium options are available, making it suitable for those monitoring salt intake.

Recommended Food Pairings

🥗
Pasta - pairs perfectly with various pasta types for a classic meal.
🥗
Grilled chicken - complements the sauce and adds protein.
🥗
Vegetables - enhances the flavor of roasted or steamed vegetables.
🥗
Cheese - adds richness; try with mozzarella or parmesan.
🥗
Bread - serves as a great dipping option or side.

How to Consume

Serving size
Recommended serving size is 150g, approximately 2/3 cup.
Frequency
Recommended frequency is 2-3 times per week.
  • Use as a base for pasta dishes or lasagna.
  • Incorporate into stews or casseroles for added flavor.
  • Serve as a dip with breadsticks or vegetables.
  • Use in pizza as a sauce for added taste.
  • Combine with proteins like chicken or fish for balanced meals.

Selection & Storage

How to choose:

  • Look for sauces with no added sugars or preservatives.
  • Select products with a high percentage of tomatoes listed first.
  • Check for fresh herbs in the ingredient list for better flavor.
  • Choose organic options when possible for fewer chemicals.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Shelf life
5-7 days refrigerated, 3 months frozen.

Warnings & Contraindications

  • ⚠️Individuals with tomato allergies should avoid spaghetti sauce.
  • ⚠️Those with certain gastrointestinal conditions may need to limit acidic foods.
  • ⚠️People on low-sodium diets should monitor intake due to sodium content.
  • ⚠️Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to acidity.
  • ⚠️Canned versions may contain added preservatives; read labels carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories does Spaghetti sauce have?

Spaghetti sauce contains approximately 51 calories per 100g, making it a low-calorie option for enhancing your dishes without significantly increasing caloric intake.

Is Spaghetti sauce healthy?

Yes, spaghetti sauce can be healthy. It is low in calories and contains beneficial nutrients like vitamins and minerals, particularly if made from fresh or organic ingredients without added sugars or preservatives.

How should Spaghetti sauce be stored?

Spaghetti sauce should be stored in a cool, dry place before opening. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 5-7 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What are the benefits of eating Spaghetti sauce?

Eating spaghetti sauce can provide various health benefits, including being low in calories, high in antioxidants, and a good source of vitamins and fiber, which can support overall health.

How much Spaghetti sauce can I eat per day?

A recommended portion is about 150g per serving, which can be consumed 2-3 times per week as part of a balanced diet.

How many calories are in 1 cup of Spaghetti sauce (260 g)?

1 cup of Spaghetti sauce (260 g) has about 133 kcal — 3.6 g protein, 21.1 g carbohydrates and 3.9 g fat (calculated from the USDA values per 100 g).

Want a personalized nutrition plan?

Calculate your caloric needs