Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 220 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 3.0 grams of fat, and 42.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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258.8
calories
9.4
protein
49.4
carbohydrates
3.5
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
258.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3.5 g 4%
Saturated Fat 0.6 g 3%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 470.6 mg 20%
Total Carbohydrates 49.4 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 3.5 g 12%
Sugars 7.1 g
protein 9.4 g 18%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 23.5 mg 1%
Iron 1.8 mg 10%
Potassium 352.9 mg 7%

* 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

74.1%
14.1%
11.8%
Fat: 31 cal (11.8%)
Protein: 37 cal (14.1%)
Carbs: 197 cal (74.1%)

About Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Spaghetti with tomato sauce is a classic dish rooted in Italian cuisine, often enjoyed globally for its simplicity and flavor. Traditionally made with durum wheat spaghetti and a sauce of cooked tomatoes, garlic, onions, and olive oil, it provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates and essential nutrients. A single serving can be rich in dietary fiber from the tomatoes, moderate protein from the pasta, and healthy fats if olive oil is used. Tomatoes are also a source of antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium—making this dish a wholesome and nutrient-packed option. It is a versatile, affordable meal often adapted with additional ingredients to suit diverse dietary preferences and health needs.

Health Benefits

  • Tomatoes in the sauce provide lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Whole grain spaghetti sources dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
  • Vitamin C from tomatoes supports immune health and assists in collagen production.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten
Suitable for: Vegetarian, low-fat diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, low-carb diets

Selection and Storage

Store tomato-based sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. Cooked spaghetti can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; keep sauce separate to avoid soggy texture.

Common Questions About Spaghetti with tomato sauce Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of spaghetti with tomato sauce?

One cup of cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce contains approximately 220-250 calories, around 8 grams of protein, 45-50 grams of carbohydrates, and minimal fat (1-2 grams depending on preparation). It is also a source of dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamins like vitamin C from the tomato sauce.

Is spaghetti with tomato sauce compatible with a keto diet?

Traditional spaghetti is not compatible with a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content, typically 45-50 grams per serving. For a keto version, you could substitute traditional spaghetti with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and pair them with a low-carb tomato sauce.

What are the health benefits and concerns of eating spaghetti with tomato sauce?

Spaghetti with tomato sauce provides energy from complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes. However, it may not be suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels or on low-carb diets due to its high carbohydrate content. Excessive consumption may also contribute to caloric overconsumption.

What is the recommended serving size for spaghetti with tomato sauce?

A standard serving size of cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce is about 1 cup (approximately 150-200 grams). This portion provides a balanced amount of calories and nutrients for most people, though athletes or individuals with higher energy needs may opt for larger portions.

How does spaghetti with tomato sauce compare to alternatives like whole-grain pasta or other sauces?

Whole-grain pasta offers a higher fiber content, aiding digestion and promoting satiety, compared to regular pasta. Tomato sauce is generally lower in fat and calories than cream-based sauces like Alfredo. Opting for whole-grain pasta with tomato sauce provides a healthier, more nutrient-rich choice overall.

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.

  1. 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Healthy Eating Recommendations
    U.S. Department of Agriculture and Health and Human Services
    Guidelines promoting healthy dietary patterns inclusive of grains and vegetables like tomatoes.

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.