Spaghetti with pesto sauce

Spaghetti with pesto sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

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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470.6
calories
11.8
protein
70.6
carbohydrates
17.6
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
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

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

57.9%
9.7%
32.5%
Fat: 158 cal (32.5%)
Protein: 47 cal (9.7%)
Carbs: 282 cal (57.9%)

About Spaghetti with pesto sauce

Spaghetti with pesto sauce is a classic Italian dish originating from the Ligurian region of Italy. This dish features spaghetti pasta tossed in a fresh, herbaceous pesto sauce typically made of basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It is a carbohydrate-rich meal with moderate protein and fat content, offering a balanced source of energy. The dish also provides micronutrients such as vitamin K, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy unsaturated fats from the olive oil and pine nuts.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamin K from basil, which supports proper blood clotting and bone health.
  • Contains healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil, which can contribute to improved heart health.
  • Provides magnesium from pine nuts, essential for muscle function and nerve regulation.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), dairy (from Parmesan cheese), tree nuts (from pine nuts)
Suitable for: Vegetarian
Not suitable for: Vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free

Selection and Storage

Store leftover spaghetti with pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a dash of olive oil if needed to restore moisture.

Common Questions About Spaghetti with pesto sauce Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of spaghetti with pesto sauce?

A typical serving (1 cup) of spaghetti with pesto sauce contains about 380-450 calories, depending on the portion of sauce used. It offers around 12-15 grams of protein, 15-18 grams of fat (mostly from the olive oil and nuts in pesto), and 50-55 grams of carbohydrates. Pesto adds micronutrients like vitamin E, vitamin K, and antioxidants from basil and olive oil.

Can I eat spaghetti with pesto sauce on a keto diet?

Traditional spaghetti is not keto-friendly due to its high carbohydrate content (50-55g per serving). However, you can make it keto-compatible by substituting regular pasta with low-carb options like spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles, while the pesto sauce itself is keto-friendly because it is high in fat and low in carbs.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating spaghetti with pesto sauce?

Spaghetti with pesto sauce provides healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, which support heart health, and antioxidants from basil. However, it is energy-dense and high in calories, so portion control is important for weight management. Some pesto sauces may also be high in sodium, so individuals with blood pressure concerns should check labels or make their own pesto at home.

What is the recommended portion size for spaghetti with pesto sauce?

A standard serving size is about 1 cup of cooked spaghetti with 2 tablespoons of pesto sauce, which is roughly 380-450 calories. This is suitable for a main meal, but portion sizes can vary depending on individual calorie and dietary needs. Pairing with a side salad or protein-rich food can make a more balanced meal.

How does spaghetti with pesto sauce compare to spaghetti with marinara sauce?

Spaghetti with pesto sauce is higher in fat because of the olive oil, nuts, and cheese in pesto, whereas marinara sauce is primarily tomato-based and lower in calories and fat. Pesto is richer in flavor and provides healthy fats, while marinara offers more vitamin C and fewer calories, making it more suitable for low-fat diets.

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.