Pasta gets a bad rap as being a carb heavy, bloaty food. But if you choose wisely…it can be a superfood to enjoy on. the. regular. Below is a cheat sheet of my favorite pastas. Bon appétit.
PASTA CHEAT SHEET:
Shirataki Pasta: Miracle Noodles
Per Cup (cooked): 5 cals, 0g protein, 1g fiber
Winner: Lowest in calories
Best For: Someone looking to use super low-calorie noodles in Asian-inspired dishes like ramen. I don’t like pretending these are Italian-style noodles. 😉
Highlight: They are made from the konjac root which is rich in glucomannan, a type of fiber that helps with fullness & healthy digestion.
Whole Grain Pasta: Brown Rice & Quinoa
Per Cup (cooked): 200 cals, 4g protein, 4g fiber
Winner: Tastes most like traditional pasta
Best For: Pasta lover who’s trying to eat less gluten, but wants something that tastes like traditional pasta.
Highlight: These pastas are gluten-free, but that’s not why they make my favorites list. I love them because they are whole grain + since we all eat plenty of wheat-based foods, they are a nice change up.
Legume Pasta: Black Bean, Lentil & Chickpea
Per Cup (cooked): 190 cals, 18g protein, 9g fiber
Winner: Highest in protein & fiber
Best For: Anytime you want a fast, vegetarian pasta meal.
Highlight: This pasta has plant-protein from legumes, so you don’t have to add any additional protein like meatballs or meat sauce.
Veggie Pasta: Zucchini, Spaghetti Squash & Butternut Squash
Per Cup (cooked): 20 cals, 1g protein, 1g fiber
Winner: Highest in antioxidants
Best For: Someone who struggles to get enough veggies. Produce in the shape of pasta = fun.
Highlight: Rich in all sorts of antioxidants such as skin-boosting vitamin A.
PS: Staying in for V-Day? 💕 Dining @ home with a side of Netflix & Chill? 😉 Make PASTA for dinner! 🍝
Happy Valentine’s Day, SuperSwappers!
I love you all a LATTE. xoxo
Click HERE for full infographic image.
Maria says
I love all the different pasta options! What is the option for someone trying to limit carbs( prediabetic and meat eater)?
Dawn says
The best would be Shirataki or Vegetable Pasta. HOWEVER…
The whole grain & legume pasta are healthy, too…but those it’s all just about A SMALLER 1/2 CUP PORTION!
xoxo