21 Healthyish Noodle Recipes That Will Satisfy Your Pasta Craving (2024)

FAQs

What should I eat if I want pasta? ›

If You're Craving Carb-rich Foods

When you crave carb-heavy eats like bread and pasta, it may be because your energy levels have taken a nosedive. These same empty carbs can make you crave even more unhealthy foods.

Rice, bread and pasta

If you find yourself constantly craving fried rice, bread, noodles, potatoes, pasta, cake or donuts, it might be a sign that your body is exhausted. Carbohydrates are our body's most important source of fuel, and when we're tired, our body signals that it's time for an energy boost.

1. Whole-Wheat Pasta. Whole-wheat pasta is an easy-to-find nutritious noodle that will bump up the nutrition of your pasta dish. Made from whole grains, every cup of cooked pasta (140 grams) boasts 43 g of carbohydrate, 3 g of fiber and 8 g of protein per serving, per the USDA.

Black bean noodles are very high in fiber and protein, and offer a good source of iron. Unlike traditional noodles, noodles made entirely from black beans have no cholesterol, trans fat, or sodium. Find them in your local health food store, or in a well-stocked supermarket.

Vermicelli noodles, also known as rice vermicelli or rice sticks, are generally considered a healthier noodle option compared to many other types of noodles. Vermicelli noodles are typically made from rice flour, making them naturally gluten-free.

Cheese is an excellent way to add flavor to your pasta without having to rely on sauce. Try mixing your angel hair pasta with goat cheese, and toss in sun-dried tomatoes to make an amazing meal with just a few ingredients. Garlic butter is a terrific way to season all types of noodles.

Can I eat pasta everyday and be healthy? ›

It is possible to eat pasta daily and still be healthy. The key to eating pasta every day is to limit your portion size and supplement your pasta bowl with essential nutrients. The recommended portion size is two ounces of dry pasta or one cup of cooked pasta.

Yes, you can eat pasta and still stick to your weight loss goals and lose fat. The main consideration to keep in mind when making food choices while trying to lose weight is to remain in a calorie deficit. Very simply, if your body uses more calories than you consume, then you will lose weight.

Meat lovers – Add some lean poultry to pasta for an extra protein boost. In addition to a high protein content, chicken and turkey also provide a number of vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (especially B6 and niacin) and selenium and zinc.

If you are buying a jarred or canned sauce, choose a tomato-based (marinara) sauce rather than a creamy sauce. Creamy sauces usually have more saturated fat and calories. Eating too much saturated fat has been linked to heart disease. Tomato-based sauces also contain more nutrients like vitamin A and lycopene.

Yes, you can eat pasta and still stick to your weight loss goals and lose fat. The main consideration to keep in mind when making food choices while trying to lose weight is to remain in a calorie deficit. Very simply, if your body uses more calories than you consume, then you will lose weight.

The Bottom Line. Carbs are not the enemy when you're trying to lose weight. While no one is suggesting regularly noshing on potato chips or cookies, including carbs like pasta, whole-grain bread and fruit can be a beneficial addition to your weight-loss plan—along with adding vital nutrients to your body.

Pasta can be a healthy meal. Since pasta is not very nutritious on its own, it's essential to add other foods to your pasta that are high in nutrients. You can ensure a healthy pasta meal by adding your favorite veggies to your dish and a lean protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or fish.