Macaroni — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Macaroni nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 371 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 75 g | 27.27% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 10.71% |
| Sugars | 3 g | 6% |
| Glycemic Index | 45 | - |
| Protein | 13 g | 26% |
| Sodium | 6 mg | 0.26% |
| Total Fat | 2 | 2.56% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
13 g
🧀 Good Protein Content
45
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Macaroni facts & tips
Health benefits
- Provides sustained energy from complex carbohydrates, making it a good source of fuel for the body and brain.
- Can be a source of fiber if made from whole grains, promoting digestive health and regular bowel movements.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins and iron (if enriched), supporting overall health and well-being.
- Versatile and easy to prepare, making it a convenient addition to a variety of meals and recipes.
Health risks
- High carbohydrate content particularly in macaroni made from refined white flour, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, particularly concerning for diabetics.
- Low nutrient density as macaroni made from refined flour offers limited vitamins or minerals compared to whole grain pasta options.
- Potential for gluten content making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, potentially causing digestive discomfort and other health issues.
- Potential for overconsumption due to its palatable nature, leading to excessive calorie intake if not mindful of portion sizes, particularly when paired with rich sauces.
How to choose macaroni
Macaroni should be uniform in shape and size, with a smooth surface that's ideal for cooking evenly. The pasta should be firm to the touch and maintain its shape when packaged.
Avoid macaroni that is cracked or shows signs of moisture, which can lead to uneven cooking. Packages that are open or have holes should also be avoided, as the pasta may have been exposed to contaminants.
How to store macaroni
Dry macaroni should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This keeps it fresh and ready to cook for up to a year. Proper storage maintains its quality and texture.
Moisture and air exposure can cause macaroni to spoil or lose quality. Avoid storing near heat sources, and ensure the container is tightly sealed. Proper storage keeps it free from pests and maintains its texture for cooking.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Macaroni can last for 1-2 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Once cooked, macaroni should be consumed within 3-5 days if kept in the refrigerator. Proper storage helps maintain its texture and quality.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover macaroni can be used in a variety of savory dishes. Toss it with your favorite sauce for a quick meal, or mix it into a pasta salad with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy dressing. Macaroni is also great when baked into a casserole with cheese, breadcrumbs, and cream for added richness.
Use macaroni in a macaroni and cheese by mixing it with a creamy cheese sauce and baking until bubbly, or mix it into a stir-fry with vegetables and your choice of protein. If you have a lot of macaroni, consider making a batch of macaroni soup by simmering the pasta in broth with vegetables and meat. Macaroni can also be used as a base for a macaroni salad with mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles, or mixed into a gratin with cheese and breadcrumbs. For a quick snack, enjoy macaroni with butter and Parmesan, or toss it with olive oil and garlic for a simple pasta dish.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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