1 serving (140 grams) contains 221 calories, 8.1 grams of protein, 1.3 grams of fat, and 43.2 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
315.7 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.9 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1.4 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 61.7 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g | 12% | |
| Sugars | 1.1 g | ||
| protein | 11.6 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 14.3 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 88.6 mg | 1% | |
* 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 Plain spaghetti
Plain spaghetti, a staple food in Italian cuisine, originates from durum wheat semolina, which is kneaded with water to form a resilient dough. Known for its neutral flavor and ability to pair with various sauces, spaghetti is a popular carbohydrate source worldwide. Nutritionally, plain spaghetti provides approximately 158 calories, 31 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fat, and 6 grams of protein per cooked cup (140g). It contains small amounts of vitamins like B1 (thiamine) and minerals such as iron and magnesium, particularly if made from whole wheat.
Health Benefits
- Provides sustained energy due to its complex carbohydrates, which have a slower digestion rate.
- Contains plant-based protein (6g per cooked cup), which helps maintain muscle health and repair.
- Whole wheat spaghetti is a good source of dietary fiber (6g per cooked cup), promoting digestive health and reducing cholesterol levels.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store uncooked spaghetti in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked spaghetti should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Plain spaghetti Nutrition
Is plain spaghetti high in protein?
Plain spaghetti contains about 7 grams of protein per 100 grams of cooked pasta. While it is not a particularly high-protein food, it can contribute to your daily protein needs when paired with protein-rich ingredients like meat, legumes, or nutritional yeast.
Can I eat plain spaghetti on a keto diet?
Plain spaghetti is not compatible with a keto diet as it is high in carbohydrates, with approximately 31 grams of carbs per 100 grams of cooked pasta. Keto diets typically restrict carbohydrate intake to 20-50 grams per day, making traditional spaghetti a less suitable choice.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating plain spaghetti?
Plain spaghetti is a good source of energy and provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron. However, it is high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes, especially for those with insulin sensitivity or diabetes. Opting for whole-grain spaghetti can increase fiber intake, improving satiety and digestion.
What is the recommended serving size for plain spaghetti?
A typical serving size for cooked plain spaghetti is 1 cup, which amounts to roughly 200 grams. This portion contains around 220 calories, making it a reasonable serving for an adult, especially when balanced with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
How does plain spaghetti compare to whole-grain or alternative pastas?
Plain spaghetti is made from refined wheat, which is lower in fiber and nutrients compared to whole-grain spaghetti. Whole-grain spaghetti has about 3 times more fiber (5-6 grams per serving) and causes a slower rise in blood sugar. Alternative pastas like lentil or chickpea pasta provide more protein and fiber, making them a better choice for those seeking higher nutritional value.
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.
