1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
377.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.9 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g | 37% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 56.6 mg | 18% | |
| Sodium | 566.0 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.7 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 6% | |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| protein | 18.9 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 18.9 mcg | 94% | |
| Calcium | 141.5 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 283.0 mg | 6% | |
* 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 Pastitsio
Pastitsio is a traditional Greek dish that resembles an Italian lasagna. It is made with layers of pasta (often tubular like penne or bucatini), a seasoned meat sauce—usually beef or lamb—and a creamy béchamel sauce baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is part of the Mediterranean cuisine and is popular for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Nutritionally, a single serving provides approximately 160 calories, 8g of protein, 16g of carbohydrates, 8g of fat, 0.8g of fiber, and modest amounts of calcium and iron. Due to its layered composition, pastitsio is a complete meal with a balance of macronutrients, although it is higher in fat from the béchamel sauce and cheese toppings.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein (8g per serving), supporting muscle repair and overall tissue health.
- Provides calcium (60mg) from the béchamel sauce and cheese for strong bones and teeth.
- Contains iron (0.8mg), important for preventing anemia and supporting energy production.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store pastitsio in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Common Questions About Pastitsio Nutrition
Is Pastitsio high in protein?
Pastitsio contains 8 grams of protein per serving (approximately 1 cup). While not extremely high in protein, it provides a moderate amount, thanks to its ground meat and cheese components.
Can I eat Pastitsio on a keto diet?
Pastitsio is not suitable for a strict keto diet due to its carbohydrate content (16 grams per serving) from pasta and béchamel. However, a low-carb version can be prepared by using alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating Pastitsio?
Pastitsio provides a good balance of macronutrients, including protein and fat. However, it is relatively high in calories (160 per serving) and sodium (240 mg). It should be eaten in moderation, especially if you are monitoring salt or calorie intake.
How much Pastitsio should I eat in one sitting?
A typical serving size of Pastitsio is approximately 1 cup, providing 160 calories. For a balanced meal, pair it with a leafy green salad or vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients to your plate.
How does Pastitsio compare to a similar dish, lasagna?
Pastitsio and lasagna share some similarities, such as layered ground meat and pasta. However, Pastitsio uses tubular pasta and a creamy béchamel sauce, while lasagna typically features flat noodles and a tomato-based sauce. Nutritionally, both dishes are similar in calories and protein content, but lasagna may have slightly more carbohydrates depending on preparation.
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.
