1 serving (160 grams) contains 178 calories, 6.0 grams of protein, 0.3 grams of fat, and 37.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
177.6 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 302.4 mg | 13% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g | 7% | |
| Sugars | 0.2 g | ||
| protein | 6.0 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 12.8 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 92.8 mg | 1% | |
* 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 Cooked couscous
Cooked couscous is a staple dish originating from North African cuisine, often described as a small, fluffy pasta-like grain made from semolina durum wheat. With its mild and versatile flavor, it is popular in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African recipes. Nutritionally, it is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, and is low in fat. A 1-cup serving of cooked couscous contains approximately 176 calories, 6 grams of protein, less than 1 gram of fat, and 2 grams of dietary fiber. It also contains essential minerals such as selenium, which acts as an antioxidant, and small amounts of magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. Its nutritional profile makes it a satisfying and quick-to-prepare addition to a balanced diet.
Health Benefits
- Rich in selenium, an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and supports immune function.
- Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day.
- Contains small amounts of magnesium, which supports muscle function and bone health.
- Low in fat, making it a heart-healthy carbohydrate choice.
- Contains plant-based protein, especially useful in vegetarian diets.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming or use cold in salads.
Common Questions About Cooked couscous Nutrition
Is cooked couscous high in protein?
Cooked couscous is moderately low in protein, providing about 3.8 grams of protein per 1 cup (about 157 grams). While it isn’t a high-protein food, it can be combined with other protein-rich ingredients like legumes or meat to boost your intake.
Can I eat cooked couscous on a keto diet?
Cooked couscous is not suitable for a ketogenic diet because it is relatively high in carbohydrates. One cup of cooked couscous contains approximately 36 grams of carbohydrates, which would exceed the daily carb limit for most keto plans.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating cooked couscous?
Cooked couscous is a good source of selenium, an antioxidant mineral, offering about 43% of the recommended daily intake in 1 cup. However, it is relatively low in fiber and protein compared to whole grains, so it may not keep you full as long or provide as much nutritional benefit as whole-grain alternatives like quinoa.
What is the recommended portion size for cooked couscous?
A standard serving size of cooked couscous is about 1 cup, which contains approximately 176 calories. This portion size works well as a side dish or a base for a salad, but you may adjust it based on your caloric needs or activity level.
How does cooked couscous compare to quinoa in terms of nutrition?
Compared to quinoa, cooked couscous has fewer calories (176 vs. 222 per cup) and less protein (3.8 grams vs. 8 grams per cup). Couscous also has less fiber (2.2 grams vs. 5.2 grams per cup), making quinoa a more nutrient-dense option, especially for those seeking a higher protein or fiber content.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Cooked couscous DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
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.
