1 serving (126 grams) contains 200 calories, 7.2 grams of protein, 1.2 grams of fat, and 42.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
200.0 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.2 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1.0 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| protein | 7.2 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 10 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 62.0 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 Cup of pasta
Pasta, originating from Italy, is globally appreciated as a versatile carbohydrate-based dish. Traditionally crafted from durum wheat semolina, pasta can be made into various shapes such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Whole-grain and gluten-free options have become popular alternatives. A cup (approximately 140 grams) of cooked white pasta provides around 220 calories, 43 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of protein, and less than 2 grams of fat, along with small amounts of iron and B vitamins like thiamine. Whole-grain pasta offers additional fiber and nutrients, making it a nutritious option for balanced diets.
Health Benefits
- Provides long-lasting energy due to its high carbohydrate content, useful for physical activity or endurance.
- Supports metabolism and energy production with B vitamins such as thiamine and niacin found in wheat pasta.
- Whole-grain pasta aids digestion and supports heart health with its higher dietary fiber content.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dry pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked pasta should be refrigerated in a sealed container and consumed within 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Cup of pasta Nutrition
Is a cup of pasta high in calories and carbs?
A standard cup of cooked pasta contains approximately 200 calories and about 40 grams of carbohydrates. It is relatively low in fat (around 1 gram) and provides 7 grams of protein, making it calorie-dense but also a good source of energy.
Can I eat a cup of pasta on a keto or low-carb diet?
Traditional pasta is not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet due to its high carbohydrate content (around 40 grams per cup). For these diets, alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles are better options.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating pasta?
Pasta is a good source of energy and can provide essential nutrients like iron and some B vitamins in enriched varieties. However, its high carbohydrate content can cause blood sugar spikes if eaten in large portions or without pairing it with protein and fiber.
How much pasta should I eat per serving?
A healthy serving size of pasta is about 1 cup of cooked pasta, which equates to roughly 2 ounces of dry pasta. Depending on your dietary needs, you can adjust portions and pair with vegetables and protein for a balanced meal.
How does pasta compare to whole-grain pasta in terms of nutrition?
Whole-grain pasta contains more fiber (6 grams per cup compared to 2 grams in regular pasta) and slightly more protein (8 grams per cup). It has a lower glycemic index, making it a better choice for sustained energy and blood sugar control.
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.
