1 serving (300 grams) contains 400 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
315.0 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.8 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 39.4 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 629.9 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.4 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 5% | |
| Sugars | 2.4 g | ||
| protein | 15.7 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 39.4 mcg | 197% | |
| Calcium | 118.1 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 236.2 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
Source of Calories
About Penne carbonara
Penne Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish originating from the Lazio region, traditionally prepared with eggs, cured pork, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. The use of penne instead of spaghetti offers a slight variation in texture while still delivering a rich and creamy flavor. Nutritionally, Penne Carbonara is calorie-dense and primarily provides carbohydrates from the pasta, fats from cheese and pork, and proteins from eggs. It is relatively high in saturated fats and sodium but can also offer micronutrients like phosphorus, calcium from the cheese, and selenium from eggs. The dish is considered a comfort food and is typically served as a main course in Italian cuisine.
Health Benefits
- Provides a high-quality source of protein (specifically from eggs and pork) which aids in muscle development and repair.
- Calcium from Pecorino Romano supports strong bones and teeth.
- Eggs contribute selenium, an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage and supports thyroid health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftover Penne Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid scrambling the egg-based sauce.
Common Questions About Penne carbonara Nutrition
What is the nutritional content of Penne Carbonara?
A typical serving (1 cup or around 250 grams) of traditional Penne Carbonara contains approximately 400-500 calories, with 12-15 grams of protein, 15-20 grams of fat (mostly from cream, cheese, and bacon), and 40-50 grams of carbohydrates. It is also a good source of calcium from Parmesan cheese but is relatively low in fiber.
Can I eat Penne Carbonara on a keto or low-carb diet?
Traditional Penne Carbonara is not keto or low-carb friendly due to its high carbohydrate content from pasta, which averages 40-50 grams of carbs per serving. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by substituting regular pasta with low-carb pasta alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating Penne Carbonara?
Penne Carbonara provides a good amount of protein and calcium, which support muscle and bone health. However, it is high in saturated fats and cholesterol due to cream and bacon, which could pose concerns for heart health if consumed excessively. It's also high in calories, so portion control is essential if you're managing your weight.
What is the recommended portion size for Penne Carbonara?
A recommended portion size is about 1 cup (250 grams), which provides about 400-500 calories and balanced nutrients for a main dish. To make it more filling and nutritious, you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
How does Penne Carbonara compare to other pasta dishes like Alfredo or Bolognese?
Penne Carbonara tends to be higher in fat and calories compared to dishes like Marinara or Bolognese due to its use of cream, cheese, and bacon. Alfredo sauce is similarly creamy but sometimes higher in fat. In contrast, Bolognese offers more protein from its meat-based sauce and generally has fewer calories and less fat per serving.
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.
