Taco pasta salad

Lunch

Item Rating: 68/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 350 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

Calories		411.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		17.6 g	22%
	Saturated Fat	5.9 g	29%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		29.4 mg	9%
Sodium		705.9 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		47.1 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	4.7 g	16%
	Sugars	5.9 g
protein		14.1 g	28%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		117.6 mg	9%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
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

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 158 cal (39.3%)

Protein: 56 cal (14.0%)

Carbs: 188 cal (46.7%)

About Taco pasta salad

Taco pasta salad is a fusion dish combining elements of Mexican and Italian-American cuisine. It typically includes cooked pasta, seasoned ground meat or beans, vegetables such as tomatoes and bell peppers, and taco-inspired toppings like cheese, avocado, and salsa. Often served cold, it offers a balanced nutritional profile with carbohydrates from the pasta, proteins from meat or beans, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables. Depending on preparation, it can be tailored to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile and flavorful option for gatherings or meal prep.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein (from ground meat or beans), which supports muscle repair and growth.
• High in dietary fiber from vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes, promoting digestive health.
• Provides heart-healthy fats from avocado, which contains monounsaturated fats and vitamin E.
• Contains vitamin C from bell peppers and tomatoes, which supports immune function.
• Offers complex carbohydrates from pasta, providing sustained energy for daily activities.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), milk (from cheese), nuts (if added toppings include nuts), egg (if egg-based pasta is used)

Suitable for: Flexitarian, lacto-vegetarian (if prepared with beans), pescatarian (if prepared with fish)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free (unless gluten-free pasta is used), vegan (unless vegan substitutes are used), low-carb diets (due to pasta)

Selection and Storage

Store taco pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent sogginess, keep toppings like avocado or cheese separate until ready to serve.

Common Questions About Taco pasta salad Nutrition

How many calories and protein are in Taco Pasta Salad?

Taco pasta salad typically contains around 250-400 calories per serving, depending on the recipe and portion size. It usually provides 8-15 grams of protein due to the inclusion of ingredients like ground meat, cheese, and beans. Exact values may vary based on specific portions and ingredient choices.

Is Taco Pasta Salad suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Taco pasta salad is generally not keto-friendly as it traditionally includes pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. A modified keto recipe could use low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. It's important to check the carbohydrate content in all added ingredients to maintain keto compatibility.

Are there any health concerns with eating Taco Pasta Salad?

While Taco Pasta Salad can be a flavorful meal, it may be high in saturated fat, sodium, and refined carbohydrates due to ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and pasta. Consuming it in moderation is recommended, especially for those with cardiovascular concerns or on a low-sodium diet.

What is the recommended serving size for Taco Pasta Salad?

A typical serving size for Taco Pasta Salad is about 1 cup (approximately 200 grams), which provides a balanced portion of protein, carbs, and fats. For those managing caloric intake or macronutrients, smaller portions can be paired with additional vegetables or a side salad to increase nutrient density.

How does Taco Pasta Salad compare to traditional pasta salads?

Taco pasta salad usually has a more robust flavor profile due to taco seasoning, meats, and toppings like salsa or sour cream compared to traditional pasta salads. It tends to be higher in protein and possibly sodium, but less likely to include fresh vegetables unless incorporated in the recipe.

Data Sources & Scientific References