Calories In Spaghetti And Tomato Sauce
Spaghetti and tomato sauce is a classic dish that many people love. It's a simple and delicious meal that can be made in just a few minutes. However, if you're watching your calorie intake, you may be wondering how many calories are in spaghetti and tomato sauce. In this article, we'll take a look at the calorie content of spaghetti and tomato sauce, as well as some tips for making this dish healthier.
Calories in Spaghetti
One serving of cooked spaghetti (about 1 cup) contains around 220 calories. This is for spaghetti made from refined wheat flour. Whole wheat spaghetti has slightly fewer calories, with around 174 calories per serving.
It's important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on the brand and type of spaghetti you use. Some brands may have more calories than others, and spaghetti made from different types of flour (such as rice flour or quinoa flour) may also have different calorie counts.
Calories in Tomato Sauce
One cup of tomato sauce contains around 74 calories. This is for a basic tomato sauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil. If you use store-bought tomato sauce, the calorie count may be different depending on the brand and type of sauce.
It's also worth noting that some tomato sauces may have added sugar, which can increase the calorie count. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, look for tomato sauces that are labeled "no added sugar" or "low sugar."
Total Calories in Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce
When you combine one serving of spaghetti with one cup of tomato sauce, you end up with a meal that contains around 294 calories. This is for a basic spaghetti and tomato sauce recipe made with refined wheat flour spaghetti and a basic tomato sauce.
Of course, the calorie count can vary depending on how much spaghetti and tomato sauce you use, as well as any additional ingredients you add to the dish (such as meatballs or cheese).
Tips for Making Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce Healthier
While spaghetti and tomato sauce can be a relatively healthy meal, there are a few things you can do to make it even healthier. Here are some tips:
- Use whole wheat spaghetti instead of refined wheat flour spaghetti. Whole wheat spaghetti has more fiber and nutrients than refined wheat flour spaghetti.
- Add some vegetables to your tomato sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. This will increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Use lean ground beef or turkey instead of high-fat meats like sausage or beef. This will reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish.
- Use low-sodium tomato sauce or make your own tomato sauce from scratch. This will reduce the amount of sodium in the dish.
- Serve your spaghetti and tomato sauce with a side salad or some steamed vegetables, which will increase the nutrient content of the meal.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and tomato sauce is a tasty and easy meal that can be enjoyed by many. While the calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients you use, a basic serving of spaghetti and tomato sauce contains around 294 calories. By making some simple tweaks to the recipe, such as using whole wheat spaghetti and adding vegetables to the sauce, you can make this meal even healthier.
