There’s good news!
They may also have more vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds compared to traditional boxed pastas.
All have distinct flavors and textures and are best when they are cooked per the package directions.
Photos: Courtesy of brands; Design: Olivia Tarantino / Eat This, Not That!
Is regular pasta “unhealthy?”
Buying whole grain pasta will up the fiber content to about 7 grams per serving.
A healthy serving of pasta is about the size of a baseball.
Courtesy of Barilla
When portions are large, split an order with a friend or ask for a box for leftovers.
Be sure to cook it right and avoid overcooking any jot down of pasta.
The Italian term al dente literally means “to the tooth” or firm to the bite.
Courtesy of Miracle Noodle
Italians cook their pasta so that it is firm (but not too hard).
A lower GI can helpkeep blood sugar levels stableso you will stay fuller, longer.
Read on, and for more, don’t miss5 Pasta Sauces That Use the Highest Quality Ingredients.
Courtesy of Explore Cuisine
Since penne is so versatile, this pasta is a great option to be enjoyed in many healthy ways.
This pasta is also nutrient-rich, with high fiber and protein counts and it’s also gluten-free.
Shirataki noodles have been enjoyed for more than 1,400 years in Japan and more than 2,000 years in China!
Palmini
I like that they’re made with just three ingredients: water, konjac flour, and citric acid.
They are mostly water, which makes them extremely low in calories, carbs, and protein.
The translucent noodles are plant-based, naturally fat-free, and sodium-free.
Courtesy of Cece’s
Each serving is also an excellent source of iron and potassium and a good source of calcium.
It’s also vegan, organic, kosher, and gluten-free.
Palmini Linguine
This pickis a fave of plant-based registered dietitianCynthia Sass, MPH, RDN, CSSD.
Courtesy of Banza
While it fails to meet our fiber and protein criteria, it’s still a great option.
It’s alsorich in vitamin Cand filling with just 10 calories and 2 grams of net carb per serving.
It’s a perfect make-ahead-and-take meal.
Courtesy of Green Giant
One of my favorite combos is Banza Rotini tossed with turkey meatballs, baby spinach, and pesto.
One of Angelo’s favorites isGreen Giant Veggie Spirals Spaghetti Squash.
Each variety is made with only three ingredients.
Courtesy of Veggiecraft
I like the Sweet Potato Penne variety due to its good protein and fiber counts.
It’s also a good source of potassium and an excellent source of iron.
Use just as you would regular pasta but for best results, follow the cooking instructions on the box.
Courtesy of Amazon
The result is delicious pasta alternatives that are vegan, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense.
These pastas are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a stand-in for traditional pasta.
