Pasta, made from various ingredients, cooks quickly and tastes great, making it popular worldwide.
However, due to the high calories from the noodles and sauces, it can be difficult to indulge while dieting. Fortunately, there are low-calorie pasta options you can try.
To enjoy healthy pasta, you need to consider the type of noodles and the cooking methods. Instead of using cream sauce, opt for olive oil or tomato sauce, and choose ingredients low in sodium and saturated fats to help prevent weight gain.
Whole Wheat Pasta
Whole-wheat pasta uses whole grains instead of refined flour, making it rich in dietary fiber. This fiber slows digestion, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer, which helps prevent overeating. It has a lower glycemic index (GI) than regular pasta, making it suitable for weight management.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, made by thinly slicing zucchini, are low in carbohydrates and nearly calorie-free, making them perfect for a diet. Pair them with light sauces like olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes for a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Bean Pasta
Bean pasta, made from peas, black beans, and chickpeas, is higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than traditional wheat pasta. This makes it especially useful for maintaining muscle mass while reducing calories. It’s also rich in dietary fiber, which positively impacts digestion.
Brown Rice Pasta
Brown rice pasta, like whole wheat pasta, uses unrefined grains to slow carbohydrate absorption. Additionally, it’s rich in B vitamins and minerals, which can help boost metabolism and aid in fatigue recovery.
Konjac Pasta (Shirataki noodles)
Konjac pasta contains almost no carbohydrates and is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a diet. With less than 10 calories per 100 grams, you can enjoy it without worry. However, the unique texture of konjac may not appeal to everyone, and it may lack nutrients, so it’s best to pair it with protein and vegetables.
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