1 serving (200 grams) contains 400 calories, 10.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
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 | 352.9 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 70.6 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Sugars | 2.4 g | ||
| protein | 11.8 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 58.8 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 176.5 mg | 3% | |
* 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 pasta with pesto
Penne pasta with pesto is a classic Italian dish made by combining penne pasta — a type of short, tubular pasta — with a traditional pesto sauce, which typically consists of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Originating from the Liguria region in Italy, this meal is loved for its fresh, aromatic flavors. Nutritionally, penne pasta primarily provides carbohydrates for energy, while pesto adds healthy unsaturated fats, some protein, and micronutrients like vitamin E and calcium. Depending on portion sizes and ingredient choices, this dish can vary in calorie content but is generally energy-dense and nutritionally balanced when consumed in moderation.
Health Benefits
- Pesto contains olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).
- The basil in pesto is a source of vitamin K, essential for proper blood clotting and bone health.
- Parmesan cheese in the pesto provides calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Penne pasta serves as a source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy release.
- Pine nuts in pesto contribute magnesium, a mineral important for muscle function and energy production.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftover cooked pasta with pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the flavor and texture of the pasta and sauce.
Common Questions About Penne pasta with pesto Nutrition
How many calories and nutrients are in penne pasta with pesto?
A typical serving of penne pasta with pesto (about 1 cup or 200g) contains approximately 400-500 calories, 10-12g of protein, 15-20g of fat (mostly from olive oil and nuts), and around 50-55g of carbohydrates. It also provides vitamin E, magnesium, and small amounts of iron and calcium depending on pesto ingredients.
Is penne pasta with pesto suitable for a keto diet?
Penne pasta with pesto is not suitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content (around 50-55g per serving). Keto diets require low-carb, high-fat foods, so you may consider substituting regular pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles to reduce carbohydrates while keeping the pesto.
What are the health benefits of eating penne pasta with pesto?
Penne pasta with pesto provides a source of complex carbohydrates for energy and healthy fats from pesto ingredients like olive oil, pine nuts, or walnuts. Pesto made from basil offers antioxidants like vitamin K and E, which support heart health and immunity. However, its fat and calorie content can be high, so portion control is advisable.
What is the recommended serving size for penne pasta with pesto?
The recommended serving size for penne pasta with pesto is typically 1 cup cooked pasta (about 200g), which provides a balanced portion without excessive calories. Adding a side of vegetables or lean protein can make the meal more nutritious and filling.
How does penne pasta with pesto compare to spaghetti with tomato sauce?
Penne pasta with pesto is generally higher in fat and calories due to the olive oil and nuts in the pesto, while spaghetti with tomato sauce is often lower in fat and calories, depending on the recipe. Additionally, pesto contains more vitamins like E and K from basil and nuts, whereas tomato sauce is richer in vitamin C and lycopene from tomatoes.
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.
