Official Nutrition Facts
The nutritional information for a Domino's marinara dipping cup can vary slightly depending on the data source, but it remains consistently low in calories. A standard 2-ounce (57g) serving is the basis for these counts.
- Calories: 25–30 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 270-290mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5-6g
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 0-1g
These figures demonstrate that the sauce is virtually fat-free and low in protein. The primary contributors to its calorie content are carbohydrates and sugars. It is also important to note the sodium content, which can add up quickly if multiple dipping cups are consumed.
What are the main ingredients?
The ingredients in a marinara dipping cup are typically tomato-based. While the exact recipe is proprietary to Domino's, a standard marinara sauce will contain the following components:
- Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- Water
- Sugar
- Salt
- Various seasonings, such as onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian herbs like oregano and basil
The simple ingredient list is the reason for its lower calorie count compared to creamy or cheese-based dips. The lack of added fats like oil or cream keeps the overall fat and calorie content minimal.
Marinara vs. Other Domino's Dipping Sauces
When choosing a dipping sauce for your pizza crust, breadsticks, or other sides, it can be helpful to compare the marinara cup to Domino's other popular options. The difference in calories and fat can be substantial, as shown in the table below.
| Sauce | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marinara Dipping Cup | 2 oz | 25-30 | 0g | 0g | 
| Garlic Dipping Cup | 2 oz | 250 | 28g | 5g | 
| Ranch Dipping Cup | 2 oz | 160 | 17g | 3g | 
As the table highlights, the marinara cup is significantly lighter than the creamy and oil-based alternatives. A single garlic dipping cup contains nearly ten times the calories of the marinara, primarily due to its high fat content. For individuals monitoring their fat intake or watching their waistline, the marinara is a clear winner. Even the ranch cup, while lower than the garlic dip, is still much higher in calories and fat than the marinara.
Making Healthier Choices at Domino's
Understanding the calorie count of side items and dipping sauces is a key part of making more informed decisions when ordering takeout. By opting for the marinara dipping cup, you can enjoy a full-flavored dip with your meal without a huge caloric penalty. This is especially useful for those enjoying items like the breadsticks, which pair perfectly with the sauce.
Tips for a Lighter Domino's Meal
- Choose the right sauce: Stick with the marinara dipping cup over creamier or oil-based sauces.
- Mind your toppings: Opt for vegetable toppings on your pizza instead of extra cheese, bacon, or pepperoni.
- Balance your meal: Combine a small amount of pizza with a large salad and a side of marinara for a more balanced meal.
- Portion control: Limit yourself to just one dipping cup to keep the calories in check.
Conclusion
For those watching their calorie and fat intake, the Domino's marinara dipping cup is an excellent, low-calorie choice. Containing just 25-30 calories per 2-ounce serving, it is a guilt-free way to add a burst of flavor to your meal. In comparison to other popular dipping options from Domino's, the marinara is dramatically lower in fat and calories, making it the healthier choice for any pizza night. For more detailed nutrition information on Domino's products, always refer to their official website, where you can find the most up-to-date facts.