Are you watching your carb intake but still craving that perfect bowl of noodles? Believe it or not, low-carb versions of pasta have been available for decades. Unfortunately, many of these products have fallen short when it comes to taste and nutrition.
Instead of focusing on the number of carbs in these products, there are several key things to look for to find a healthier version. If you’re trying to stick to a low-carb diet, it may seem like all your favorite foods are off-limits.
Fortunately, several healthy alternatives also happen to be low in carbs. Check out these registered dietitian-approved picks for the best low-carb noodles available:
Who Should Be Watching Their Carbs?
Depending on your personal health goals, carb intake can vary greatly. However, the standard American diet contains far too many carbohydrates. The average person consumes 38% of their calories from carbohydrates, which translates to about 300 grams per day. This is a significant amount, especially when you consider that only 20% of those calories should come from carbs. That’s just 130 grams per day.
If you’re struggling with your weight, have diabetes, are at risk of heart disease, or are involved in intense physical activity, you may benefit from a low-carb diet. A low-carb diet generally contains fewer than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day.
What Are the Best Types of Pasta to Be on a Low-Carb Diet?
In general, any pasta that is made with whole wheat flour is also low-carb. In terms of specific products, most low-carb pasta contains around 12 grams of carbs per serving. Most are also made with a protein-rich blend of soy and other plant-based ingredients to help keep you full. There are also several low-carb kinds of pasta available made with brown rice flour or other whole grains. These products usually contain around 20 grams of carbs per serving.
Unfortunately, they also tend to be more expensive. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, whole wheat pasta is generally your best bet.
Morelli Pasta’s Gluten-Free, High-protein, Low-carb Noodles
For those who are gluten-free, the best low-carb noodle may be a gluten-free option like Morelli’s current gluten-free pasta. This Italian pasta is made with a blend of plant-based proteins, like chickpeas and fava beans, to create a more hearty texture. Plus, each two-thirds cup serving contains 11 grams of protein and is low in both carbs and calories—only 100 calories and 6 grams of carbs per serving.
It’s also non-GMO, Kosher and certified vegan. Morelli’s gluten-free pasta is available in several delicious flavors, like fettuccine alfredo, pappardelle, penne and spaghetti.
Banza Chickpea Pasta Noodles
If you’re looking for a high-protein, low-carb noodle, consider Banza’s chickpea pasta. This pasta is made from a blend of chickpeas and other plant-based ingredients, like peas and fava beans. Each 1/2 cup serving contains 20 grams of protein and just 6 grams of carbs. It’s also loaded with fiber, iron and several other essential vitamins and minerals.
Unlike many other low-carb kinds of pasta, Banza’s chickpea pasta is available in an easy-to-make, microwaveable version. Each microwavable bag contains an entire serving of pasta and several essential vitamins, minerals and protein. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy the health benefits of high-protein, low-carb pasta.
Explore Asia Shrimp & Egg Shabu Shabu Shimeji & Merlot Shiraki Noodle Bowl
If you’re craving a traditional Asian dish, but are on a low-carb diet, consider Explore Asia’s shrimp and egg shabu shimeji and merlot shiraki noodle bowl. This delicious noodle bowl is made with wheat-based shirataki noodles. Shirataki noodles are made from thin slices of tofu and are extremely low in calories and carbohydrates. This noodle bowl is also made with shrimp, eggs and a rich, flavorful merlot sauce. It’s a complete meal in one bowl and contains just 15 grams of carbs per serving.
Explore Asia’s shirataki noodle bowl is a great option for those trying to cut back on carbs.
Tofu Shirataki Noodles
If you’re avoiding gluten and shirataki noodles, consider tofu shirataki noodles. These low-carb noodles are made from thin slices of tofu and are extremely low in calories and carbohydrates. These noodles are also extremely low in calories and carbohydrates. They’re also extremely low in calories and make a great addition to any low-carb diet. They make a great addition to any low-carb diet.
They’re often used in Asian dishes like soups and stir fries. Tofu shirataki noodles are often used in Asian dishes like soups and stir-fries.
Bottom line
With so many options, it doesn’t have to be difficult to eat a healthy low-carb diet. By incorporating these noodles into your diet, you can still enjoy the same rich flavors and hearty textures you crave. These low-carb noodles are nutritious and packed with protein, vitamins and minerals.
Plus, unlike many other high-protein foods, these noodles are very low in calories. They’re also easy to find in grocery stores and online. Whether you’re looking for a healthy substitute for spaghetti or a quick and easy Asian meal, these low-carb noodles are a great option. With so many options, it doesn’t have to be difficult to eat a healthy low-carb diet.
By incorporating these noodles into your diet, you can still enjoy the same rich flavors and hearty textures you crave. These low-carb noodles are nutritious and packed with protein, vitamins and minerals. Plus, unlike many other high-protein foods, these noodles are very low in calories. They’re also easy to find in grocery stores and online.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy substitute for spaghetti or a quick and easy Asian meal, these low-carb noodles are a great option.
