Spaghetti with red sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 310 calories, 10.0 grams of protein, 5.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		292.5
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		4.7 g	6%
	Saturated Fat	0.9 g	4%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		566.0 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrates		56.6 g	20%
	Dietary Fiber	3.8 g	13%
	Sugars	7.5 g
protein		9.4 g	18%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		37.7 mg	2%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		377.4 mg	8%

* 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

Fat: 42 cal (13.8%)

Protein: 37 cal (12.3%)

Carbs: 226 cal (73.9%)

About Spaghetti with red sauce

Spaghetti with red sauce is a classic dish originating from Italian cuisine that has gained global popularity. The foundation of this recipe is spaghetti, a type of pasta made from semolina flour and water, paired with a tomato-based sauce often seasoned with garlic, onion, herbs like basil, and olive oil. This dish is a balanced source of carbohydrates, primarily from the pasta, and provides vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants due to the tomatoes. When prepared with minimal oil and whole-grain pasta, it can be a relatively low-fat, heart-healthy option suitable for many diets. Red sauce pasta dishes are versatile and can be customized with protein additions like chicken or beans, or vegetables for added nutritional value.

Health Benefits

• Tomatoes in the red sauce are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
• Spaghetti made with whole-grain pasta provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and supporting healthy blood sugar levels.
• The olive oil often used in red sauce contains monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), tomatoes (potential intolerance for sensitive individuals)

Suitable for: Vegetarian diets, low-fat diets (with reduced oil preparation)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless gluten-free pasta is used), low-carb diets

Selection and Storage

Store cooked spaghetti with red sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consumption.

Common Questions About Spaghetti with red sauce Nutrition

How many calories and how much protein are in a serving of spaghetti with red sauce?

A typical serving of spaghetti with red sauce (about 1 cup of cooked pasta with 1/2 cup of sauce) contains approximately 220-250 calories and provides around 7-8 grams of protein, depending on the type of pasta used and the ingredients in the sauce.

Can I eat spaghetti with red sauce on a keto or low-carb diet?

Traditional spaghetti with red sauce is not keto-friendly as one cup of cooked spaghetti contains around 40-45 grams of carbohydrates. However, you can make it keto-friendly by substituting regular spaghetti with low-carb options like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and ensuring the red sauce has no added sugars.

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

Spaghetti with red sauce can be a healthy meal as the red sauce, often made with tomatoes, is high in lycopene, an antioxidant beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation. However, concerns may arise if the sauce contains added sugar or high sodium, so it's best to opt for homemade or low-sodium sauces.

What is a recommended portion size for spaghetti with red sauce?

A standard portion size is about 1 cup of cooked spaghetti with 1/2 to 3/4 cup of red sauce, which provides a balanced meal. For individuals managing calorie or carbohydrate intake, consider reducing the portion size of pasta and increasing vegetable or protein toppings like grilled chicken or mushrooms.

How does spaghetti with red sauce compare to whole wheat or gluten-free pasta dishes?

Whole wheat spaghetti offers more fiber and nutrients, making it a more filling and nutritious choice compared to traditional white spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta made from alternatives like rice, quinoa, or legumes is suitable for those with gluten intolerance but may have varying textures and slightly different nutritional profiles depending on the main ingredient.

Data Sources & Scientific References