Nutritional FAQ

Rich in complex carbohydrates and low in fat, pasta makes a great addition to a balanced diet.

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about pasta and nutrition …

Is pasta a good choice for healthy meals?
How much pasta should I serve my family?
How much pasta should be cooked for each person?

Is pasta a good choice for healthy meals?

Yes! Pasta is a great source of complex carbohydrates that the body needs for energy and mental sharpness throughout the day.

Nutritionists recommend that 55 to 65 percent of daily calories come from carbohydrate foods.

Complex carbohydrates, such as those found in pasta, are broken down into glucose more slowly than simple carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy throughout the day and limiting the amount of sugar, or glucose, converted into fat.

Complex carbohydrates are also an integral part of the low GI (glycemic index) diet.

How much pasta should I serve my family?

According to the 2005 USDA Food Guide Pyramid, adults are advised to consume from 6 to 8 ounces each day from the “grain” food group, which includes pasta, bread, cereal, and other grain-based foods.

An average serving of cooked pasta as a main dish (2 cups) contains approximately 4 ounces, or roughly half, of the recommended daily requirement for grains.

How much pasta should be cooked for each person?

Two ounces of uncooked pasta is an “average” serving size for a pasta side dish. When serving pasta as a main dish, 4 ounces per person may be preferable. Two ounces of dry pasta usually cooks 1 to 1 ¼ cups.

Visit our Cooking Perfect Pasta section for detailed cooking information.