1 serving (200 grams) contains 400 calories, 10.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
470.6 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.6 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5.9 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 352.9 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 58.8 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Sugars | 2.4 g | ||
| protein | 11.8 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 58.8 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 176.5 mg | 3% | |
* 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 Fusilli pasta with pesto
Fusilli pasta with pesto is a classic Italian dish that pairs spiral-shaped pasta with a vibrant basil-based sauce. Originating from the Liguria region of Italy, pesto is traditionally made using fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes Pecorino Romano cheese. Fusilli, with its ridged, twisted shape, is ideal for holding the rich, creamy pesto sauce. Nutritionally, plain fusilli provides a good source of carbohydrates (around 30-40 g per serving), making it an excellent energy source. Pesto adds healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, along with small amounts of protein and micronutrients like vitamin K from basil and calcium from Parmesan cheese. The dish is relatively high in calories and fat, but it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and lean proteins.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy due to its high carbohydrate content (approximately 35 g of carbs per serving of fusilli).
- Rich in monounsaturated fats from olive oil, which support heart health by improving cholesterol levels.
- Basil in pesto is a good source of vitamin K, crucial for proper blood clotting and bone health.
- Contains pine nuts, which are rich in magnesium, promoting healthy nerve and muscle function.
- Includes Parmesan cheese, offering small amounts of protein and calcium for bone health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked fusilli and pesto sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat pasta gently and add fresh pesto before serving.
Common Questions About Fusilli pasta with pesto Nutrition
What is the nutritional content of fusilli pasta with pesto?
A 1-cup serving of fusilli pasta with pesto typically contains around 350-400 calories, 10-12 grams of protein, 15-20 grams of fat (mainly from the pesto), and 40-45 grams of carbohydrates. It provides key vitamins like vitamin E and K from the pesto and some minerals like magnesium and calcium, depending on the ingredients used.
Is fusilli pasta with pesto compatible with a low-carb or keto diet?
Fusilli pasta with pesto is generally not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet. Traditional fusilli pasta contains a high amount of carbohydrates, around 40-45 grams per cup. To make it keto-friendly, you could replace regular pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating fusilli pasta with pesto?
Fusilli pasta with pesto can be a good source of energy and healthy fats, as pesto often includes olive oil, nuts, and basil, which contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it can also be high in calories and sodium, especially if store-bought pesto is used. Consuming it in moderation is key if you are managing weight or sodium intake.
What is the recommended serving size for fusilli pasta with pesto?
A standard serving size for fusilli pasta with pesto is about 1 cup (around 180-200 grams cooked). This provides a balanced portion of calories and nutrients for most people, but you can adjust the serving size depending on your dietary needs or meal plan.
How does fusilli pasta with pesto compare to other pasta dishes?
Fusilli pasta with pesto tends to be higher in fat due to the pesto sauce but contains healthier fats compared to cream-based sauces. It is less calorie-dense than dishes like alfredo pasta but higher in calories compared to tomato-based options. It also offers more natural vitamins and nutrients due to the ingredients in pesto, such as basil and olive oil.
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.
