Answer: Yes, it's keto-friendly. Cauliflower is low-carb, and cheese sauce is high-fat. However, check the label for added starches or thickeners that might increase carbs. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced keto diet.
Cauliflower in a Cheddar Cheese Sauce by Wegmans is a vegetable side dish that combines the low-carb goodness of cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce.
Macronutrient analysis for a 1/2 cup serving (118g): - Calories: 60 - Carbohydrates: 10g - Fiber: 1g - Protein: 2g - Fat: 1g (0.5g saturated)
The net carbs (total carbs minus fiber) are 9g per serving, which is relatively high for a strict ketogenic diet. Most keto dieters aim for 20-30g of net carbs per day, making this dish a significant portion of the daily carb allowance.
This food doesn't fit well into a standard ketogenic diet due to its high carb content and low fat content. The protein-to-fat ratio is also not ideal for keto, as the diet typically emphasizes higher fat intake.
Potential benefits include the nutrient density of cauliflower, which is rich in vitamins C and K, and the protein from the cheese sauce. However, the drawbacks are significant: the high carb content could potentially disrupt ketosis if not carefully managed.
For keto dieters who want to include this dish, a smaller serving size (1/4 cup) might be more appropriate. It could be paired with a high-fat protein source to balance the macronutrients.
While cauliflower itself is keto-friendly and nutritious, this particular preparation with cheese sauce adds considerable carbs. Keto dieters might prefer to prepare their own cauliflower dishes using higher-fat, lower-carb ingredients to better fit their macronutrient goals.