Complete Nutritional Information for a Great Value Garlic Knot
When you're counting calories, every bite matters. The Great Value garlic knots, found in the freezer aisle at Walmart, are a simple and popular addition to many meals. To make an informed choice, it's important to look beyond just the calorie count and understand the complete nutritional profile.
Great Value Garlic Knots Nutritional Breakdown
A single frozen Great Value garlic knot (38g serving) contains the following nutritional values:
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g (5% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 1g (5% Daily Value)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 220mg (10% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g (7% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
The percentages for daily value are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. For those tracking their intake closely, this detailed breakdown can be very helpful.
What do these numbers mean?
Understanding what these numbers represent is key to a balanced diet. The fat content, while present, is relatively moderate, with no unhealthy trans fats. The carbohydrates primarily come from the enriched wheat flour used in the bread. The sodium content is a notable factor, contributing 10% of the recommended daily value in a single knot, which is something to consider if you are managing blood pressure.
Comparison: Great Value vs. Other Garlic Knots
Comparing Great Value garlic knots to other brands or homemade versions can help put its nutritional profile into perspective. Many factors, such as ingredients, preparation methods, and added toppings (like cheese), can alter the final calorie count significantly.
| Feature | Great Value Garlic Knot | Homemade Garlic Knot | New York Bakery Garlic Knot | Great Value Three Cheese Garlic Knot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | Varies (often higher, can be customized) | 130 kcal | 140 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4g | Varies (depends on oil/butter) | 4g | 5g |
| Sodium | 220mg | Varies (often lower, user controlled) | 220mg | 260mg |
| Key Differences | Convenient, standardized nutrition | Customizable, fresh ingredients | Slightly higher calories | Higher calories, cheese adds fat/sodium |
This table highlights that while Great Value offers a consistent and predictable option, other versions, especially homemade ones, can offer a better nutritional profile or greater control over ingredients. The Great Value Three Cheese option, for example, is noticeably higher in calories and fat due to the added cheese.
Ingredients and Preparation
The ingredients in the Great Value garlic knots include enriched wheat flour, water, soybean oil, parmesan cheese, and dried garlic. The spread contains soybean oil, parmesan cheese, and dried garlic, among other ingredients. They are designed for easy preparation, typically taking 5-7 minutes to cook in a conventional or toaster oven.
Tips for Enjoying Garlic Knots Responsibly
While convenient, pre-packaged garlic knots are not always the healthiest option. If you are mindful of your caloric intake, consider these tips:
- Moderation is Key: Enjoy garlic knots as an occasional treat rather than a daily side dish. Sticking to one knot per serving can make a big difference.
- Pair with Healthier Sides: Balance out the meal by pairing the knots with a large salad or a serving of steamed vegetables. This adds fiber and nutrients while keeping you full.
- Try a Healthier Homemade Version: Use whole wheat flour and olive oil instead of butter to create a lower-fat, higher-fiber alternative. You can also control the amount of cheese and sodium.
- Portion Control: For large batches, only prepare the number of knots you intend to eat, and store the rest in the freezer. This avoids the temptation to overindulge.
Conclusion
In summary, one Great Value garlic knot contains 120 calories, along with 4g of fat and 220mg of sodium. While a convenient and tasty side, they are relatively high in processed carbohydrates and sodium for their size. By understanding the nutritional facts and practicing moderation or opting for healthier homemade substitutes, you can make smarter choices and still enjoy this popular food. For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, always consult the product packaging, as formulations can occasionally change.
FAQs
Question: How many calories are in the entire box of Great Value garlic knots? Answer: An 8 oz box contains 6 garlic knots. With each knot having 120 calories, the entire box totals 720 calories.
Question: Are Great Value garlic knots a healthy food option? Answer: No, Great Value garlic knots are generally not considered a healthy food option. They are high in processed carbohydrates and sodium and contain minimal fiber. They should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Question: How much sodium is in one Great Value garlic knot? Answer: One Great Value garlic knot contains 220mg of sodium, which is 10% of the daily recommended value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Question: Can I make healthier garlic knots at home? Answer: Yes, you can make healthier garlic knots at home by using whole wheat flour, swapping butter for olive oil, and controlling the amount of added sodium and cheese.
Question: What are the main ingredients in Great Value garlic knots? Answer: The main ingredients include enriched wheat flour, water, soybean oil, parmesan cheese, and dried garlic.
Question: Do Great Value garlic knots have trans fat or cholesterol? Answer: According to the nutrition facts, the Great Value garlic knots contain 0g of trans fat and 0mg of cholesterol.
Question: How do the calories in Great Value compare to New York Bakery garlic knots? Answer: One Great Value garlic knot has 120 calories, while a New York Bakery garlic knot has 130 calories, making them quite similar in caloric value.
