In addition, commercially made pasta is enriched with niacin, thiamin, iron, riboflavin and folic acid. These important nutrients help our bodies convert carbohydrates into energy and carry oxygen through our bloodstream. Folic acid helps prevent birth defects in the unborn child and may also help protect women from coronary heart disease. One cup of cooked macaroni contains a quarter of the recommended daily value for folic acid. Prepare it with black beans and spinach and the folic acid content of the dish jumps to about 80 percent of the recommended daily value.
Pasta combines well with almost everything.
And that's where the fat comes in. One 8-ounce serving of lasagna can contain 300 calories and 12 grams of fat. But pasta doesn't have to be loaded down with fat to taste good. With some fresh ingredients and a little know-how, you can create a pasta dish that's satisfying and healthful. Use ingredients that suit your noodle's size and shape.