Pasta and noodles are made of a simple mix of flour and water, although they can also contain a binding ingredient like eggs. Because of this basic composition, this food category is almost entirely composed of carbohydrate calories. Common varieties, such as semolina pasta and rice noodles, are often made of simple carbohydrates, meaning they digest quickly and rate higher on the glycemic index. However, whole wheat pasta and brown rice noodles are becoming more readily available; these have more nutrients but the same number of calories. Pasta is a staple of Italian cuisine, and the calorie chart is primarily made of those varieties: spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, fettuccini, etc. These Italian pastas generally have the same nutritional value, and only the shape and size of the product is what differs. Noodles and pasta doughs are also on the calorie chart, including spaetzle, egg noodles, dumpling dough, and pierogi. These items, as well as Italian ravioli, can include more than simple flour, for example a cheese filling. Check the nutrition label for information regarding those ingredients, such as added calories, fat, and protein. To avoid excess calorie consumption, be sure to check the serving size, which may be smaller than you think.
