Macaroni with tomato sauce

Macaroni with tomato sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 220 calories, 7.0 grams of protein, 3.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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258.8
calories
8.2
protein
47.1
carbohydrates
3.5
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
258.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3.5 g 4%
Saturated Fat 0.6 g 3%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 470.6 mg 20%
Total Carbohydrates 47.1 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 3.5 g 12%
Sugars 7.1 g
protein 8.2 g 16%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 35.3 mg 2%
Iron 2.4 mg 13%
Potassium 352.9 mg 7%

* 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

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

74.6%
13.0%
12.5%
Fat: 31 cal (12.5%)
Protein: 32 cal (13.0%)
Carbs: 188 cal (74.6%)

About Macaroni with tomato sauce

Macaroni with tomato sauce is a popular dish with origins in Italian cuisine but enjoyed globally due to its simplicity and versatility. The dish typically consists of semolina-based pasta combined with a tomato-based sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices. Macaroni provides carbohydrates as its primary energy source, while tomato sauce is rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene. Depending on added ingredients like olive oil, cheese, or proteins, the dish can vary in macronutrient content. It can be prepared to suit various dietary preferences, making it a staple comfort food.

Health Benefits

  • Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
  • Macaroni provides complex carbohydrates, which are a steady source of energy and aid brain function.
  • If prepared with olive oil, the dish offers healthy fats, such as monounsaturated fats, beneficial for maintaining cholesterol levels.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten
Suitable for: Vegetarian, low-fat diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, low-carb diets

Selection and Storage

Store cooked macaroni and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.

Common Questions About Macaroni with tomato sauce Nutrition

Is macaroni with tomato sauce high in protein?

Macaroni with tomato sauce is not very high in protein. Generally, a cup of macaroni with tomato sauce contains about 7-9 grams of protein, which mostly comes from the macaroni. Consider adding protein-rich ingredients like lean ground turkey or lentils if you need a higher protein meal.

Can I eat macaroni with tomato sauce on a keto diet?

Macaroni with traditional wheat pasta is not suitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content. A single serving often contains over 40 grams of carbs. However, you can substitute regular pasta with low-carb options like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make it keto-friendly.

What are the health benefits or concerns of macaroni with tomato sauce?

Tomato sauce is rich in vitamins like vitamin C and lycopene, which have antioxidant properties. However, macaroni made with refined flour may lack fiber and nutrients, contributing to quick blood sugar spikes. Choosing whole-grain macaroni or adding vegetables can make this dish healthier.

What is the recommended serving size of macaroni with tomato sauce?

A standard serving size is about 1 cup (approximately 200 grams), which generally provides around 220-300 calories depending on the recipe. For a balanced meal, complement your serving with a side of vegetables or a protein source like grilled chicken or tofu.

How does macaroni with tomato sauce compare to spaghetti with tomato sauce?

Macaroni and spaghetti are both made from similar ingredients, offering comparable nutritional profiles. The difference lies in the shape, as macaroni is shorter and tubular, while spaghetti is long and thin. Both can pair well with tomato sauce, but macaroni may hold chunky sauces better while spaghetti works well with smoother sauces.

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.