1 serving (56 grams) contains 200 calories, 7.0 grams of protein, 1.0 grams of fat, and 41.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
357.1 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.8 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 9 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 73.2 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g | 6% | |
| Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| protein | 12.5 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 71.1 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 125 mg | 2% | |
* 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 Orecchiette
Orecchiette, named after its ear-like shape ('orecchio' means ear in Italian), is a traditional pasta originating from the Puglia region of Italy. It is made primarily from durum wheat semolina and water, giving it a firm texture and making it ideal for holding sauces. Nutritionally, a 100-gram serving of dry orecchiette provides approximately 357 calories, 12.5 grams of protein, 73.2 grams of carbohydrates, 1.8 grams of fat, and 1.8 grams of fiber. It also contains notable amounts of calcium (71 mg) and iron (3.2 mg). While relatively low in fat and fiber, it serves as an excellent source of carbohydrates for energy. Orecchiette is a versatile pasta, traditionally paired with broccoli rabe or sausage in Italian cuisine, and can be part of a balanced diet when combined with nutrient-dense ingredients.
Health Benefits
- Orecchiette is a good source of complex carbohydrates (73.2g per 100g), providing sustained energy for daily activities.
- Contains 3.2 mg of iron per 100g, which supports oxygen transport in the blood and helps combat fatigue.
- Provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing to muscle maintenance and repair.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dry orecchiette in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked orecchiette should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Orecchiette Nutrition
Is orecchiette high in protein?
Orecchiette contains 12.5 grams of protein per 100 grams, making it a moderate source of protein compared to other pasta types. While it’s not a high-protein food, it can contribute to daily protein intake, especially if paired with protein-rich sauces or toppings like beans, cheese, or meat.
Can I eat orecchiette on a keto diet?
No, orecchiette is not suitable for a keto diet as it contains 73.2 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, which exceeds the carbohydrate limits for ketogenic eating. Keto alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles would be a better option.
Does orecchiette offer health benefits or pose any concerns?
Orecchiette is a good source of energy due to its carbohydrate content and contains small amounts of fiber (1.8 grams per 100 grams) and protein. However, it is relatively low in micronutrients and contains minimal fat and sodium. For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with vegetables and lean proteins. Those monitoring blood sugar levels should be cautious as it has a high carbohydrate load.
What is the recommended serving size for orecchiette?
A standard serving size of orecchiette is approximately 2 ounces (56 grams) of dry pasta, which provides roughly 200 calories, 6.3 grams of protein, and 41 grams of carbohydrates. Depending on the recipe and appetite, serving sizes can be adjusted, but it’s best to balance it with other nutrient-rich ingredients.
How does orecchiette compare to other pasta types in nutrition?
Orecchiette has a similar nutritional profile to most traditional wheat pastas, with 357 calories, 12.5 grams of protein, and 73.2 grams of carbs per 100 grams. Its slightly larger surface area makes it ideal for thicker sauces, but if you're looking for lower-carb options, alternatives like chickpea or lentil pasta may provide better nutrition and higher protein 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 - Orecchiette 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.
