Pasta al pesto

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 400 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

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		470.6 mg	20%
Total Carbohydrates		70.6 g	25%
	Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	12%
	Sugars	3.5 g
protein		14.1 g	28%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		117.6 mg	9%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		235.3 mg	5%

* 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

Fat: 158 cal (31.9%)

Protein: 56 cal (11.3%)

Carbs: 282 cal (56.8%)

About Pasta al pesto

Pasta al Pesto is a traditional Italian dish originating from the Ligurian region, featuring a sauce made primarily from fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes Pecorino Romano. Often served with pasta varieties like trofie or spaghetti, it is a rich yet simple dish. Nutritionally, the dish provides an excellent source of healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, while Parmesan contributes calcium and protein. When made with whole-grain pasta, it adds fiber to support digestion. While being energy-dense, it can be customized for different dietary needs when ingredients are carefully chosen.

Health Benefits

• Supports heart health due to the monounsaturated fats in olive oil, which can help reduce LDL cholesterol.
• Rich in antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols from olive oil and basil, which combat oxidative stress.
• Delivers magnesium from pine nuts, contributing to muscle function, energy production, and bone health.
• Contains calcium and protein from Parmesan cheese, essential for strong bones and muscle repair.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains dairy (Parmesan, Pecorino Romano), tree nuts (pine nuts), gluten (pasta, unless gluten-free)

Suitable for: Vegetarian diets (if made with cheese containing microbial rennet), mediterranean diet

Not suitable for: Vegan diets (unless cheese is substituted), nut-free diets, lactose-free diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of pesto. Avoid freezing as it may affect the quality of the sauce.

Common Questions About Pasta al pesto Nutrition

Is Pasta Al Pesto high in protein?

Pasta Al Pesto is a moderate source of protein, with about 7-10 grams of protein per cup, depending on the type of pasta used and the pesto ingredients. Whole-grain or legume-based pasta can increase the protein content, making it a more nutrient-dense choice.

Can I eat Pasta Al Pesto on a keto diet?

Traditional Pasta Al Pesto is not suitable for a keto diet because regular pasta is high in carbohydrates, with around 40 grams of carbs per cup. However, you can make it keto-friendly by substituting regular pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Is Pasta Al Pesto healthy?

Pasta Al Pesto can be a healthy dish when made with whole-grain or legume-based pasta and high-quality pesto, as it provides healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, along with vitamins A, K, and C from basil. However, it can be high in calories and sodium, so portion control is important.

What is the recommended serving size for Pasta Al Pesto?

A standard serving size for Pasta Al Pesto is about 1 cup of cooked pasta with 2-3 tablespoons of pesto sauce, which provides approximately 350-400 calories. Pairing it with a side of vegetables or a lean protein can make it part of a balanced meal.

How does Pasta Al Pesto compare to traditional tomato-based pasta dishes?

Pasta Al Pesto is typically higher in fat and calories due to the inclusion of olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in the pesto sauce. In contrast, tomato-based pasta dishes generally have fewer calories and fat but can lack the healthy fats found in pesto. Both can be nutritious when prepared thoughtfully and enjoyed in moderation.

Data Sources & Scientific References