1 serving (100 grams) contains 157 calories, 5.8 grams of protein, 1.1 grams of fat, and 31.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
373.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.6 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 11.9 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 73.8 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Sugars | 2.6 g | ||
| protein | 13.8 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 16.7 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 104.8 mg | 2% | |
* 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 Shell pasta
Shell pasta, also known as conchiglie due to its seashell-like shape, originated in Italy and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. It is prized for its versatility, particularly its ability to hold sauces, making it a popular choice in baked dishes and creamy recipes. Made from durum wheat semolina, shell pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates, supplying energy. Enriched varieties often contain additional nutrients such as iron and B vitamins (e.g., thiamine, riboflavin, niacin). A 2-ounce serving of plain dry shell pasta typically provides around 200 calories, 7 grams of protein, only about 1 gram of fat, and negligible saturated fat, making it a relatively low-fat food when prepared without added butter or oil.
Health Benefits
- Provides sustained energy due to complex carbohydrates, which help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Contains iron from enriched varieties, supporting oxygen transport in the body and reducing fatigue.
- Includes B vitamins (thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin), essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dry shell pasta in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked shell pasta should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Shell pasta Nutrition
Is shell pasta high in protein?
Shell pasta contains moderate protein levels, typically around 7 grams per 2-ounce serving of dry pasta. While it isn’t considered a high-protein food, it can contribute to your daily intake, especially when paired with protein-rich sauces or ingredients like legumes, cheese, or meat.
Can I eat shell pasta on a keto diet?
Shell pasta is not suitable for a keto diet as it is high in carbohydrates, containing approximately 42 grams of carbs per 2-ounce serving. Keto diets generally focus on foods low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, so alternative low-carb pasta substitutes, such as shirataki or zucchini noodles, would be better suited.
Are there any health concerns with eating shell pasta?
Shell pasta is generally safe for most people but can pose concerns if consumed in excess due to its refined carbohydrate content, which may lead to blood sugar spikes. Whole-grain versions are a healthier choice, as they provide more fiber and nutrients like magnesium. Individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should opt for gluten-free varieties.
What is the recommended serving size for shell pasta?
The recommended serving size of shell pasta is typically 2 ounces of dry pasta per person, which expands to approximately 1 to 1.5 cups when cooked. This portion provides balanced calories for a meal, roughly 200 calories, and pairs well with nutrient-dense vegetables and protein sources.
How does shell pasta compare to other types of pasta?
Shell pasta is similar in nutritional content to most other refined wheat pastas, with around 200 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 42 grams of carbohydrates per 2-ounce serving. Its unique shape makes it ideal for holding chunky sauces or creamy fillings compared to spaghetti or penne. Whole-grain or lentil-based pastas may offer more nutrient density as alternatives.
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.
