1 serving (200 grams) contains 400 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
470.6 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.1 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.1 g | 35% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 35.3 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 470.6 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 70.6 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Sugars | 2.4 g | ||
| protein | 17.6 g | 35% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 176.5 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 235.3 mg | 5% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Cacio e pepe pasta
Cacio e pepe is a traditional Italian pasta dish originating from Rome. Its name translates to 'cheese and pepper', which reflects its simple, yet flavorful ingredients of pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and sometimes olive oil. Typically made with durum wheat pasta, it offers a carbohydrate-rich base, while Pecorino Romano adds a source of protein and calcium. Although minimalist, the dish is calorie-dense due to its cheese content, providing approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on portion size. It is also notable for its sodium content, primarily from the cheese.
Health Benefits
- Rich in calcium from Pecorino Romano cheese, supporting bone health and muscle function (about 200-250 mg per serving).
- Durum wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates, offering a steady energy source and aiding in digestive health with dietary fiber.
- Black pepper contains piperine, an active compound that may enhance nutrient absorption and has potential antioxidant properties.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
Common Questions About Cacio e pepe pasta Nutrition
Is Cacio e Pepe high in protein?
Cacio e Pepe contains a moderate amount of protein, typically around 10-15 grams per serving depending on the type and portion size of the pasta and cheese used. Most of the protein comes from the Pecorino Romano cheese, which is a rich dairy source.
Can I eat Cacio e Pepe on a keto or low-carb diet?
Cacio e Pepe is not keto-friendly as it is traditionally made with wheat-based pasta, which is high in carbohydrates (around 40-45 grams per serving). However, you can adapt the recipe using low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or almond flour-based pasta to make it suitable for a keto diet.
Is Cacio e Pepe healthy, or are there any concerns?
Cacio e Pepe can be part of a balanced diet, but it is high in calories and saturated fats due to the cheese and butter. A typical serving contains around 400-500 calories and about 10-15 grams of saturated fat. Monitoring portion size and pairing it with a side of vegetables helps balance its impact on your diet.
What is the recommended portion size for Cacio e Pepe?
The recommended portion size for Cacio e Pepe is about 1 cup of cooked pasta (roughly 100-120 grams) per person. This keeps the portion reasonable in terms of calories, carbohydrates, and fat. Consider adding a lean protein or vegetables on the side to create a more balanced meal.
How does Cacio e Pepe compare to Alfredo pasta in terms of calories and healthiness?
Cacio e Pepe is generally lower in calories and fat than Alfredo pasta because it doesn’t use heavy cream. A serving of Cacio e Pepe typically has around 400-500 calories, whereas Alfredo can exceed 600 calories due to cream and additional butter. Both dishes are indulgent and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
