Tag: Shell pasta

A single cup of shell pasta can contain dramatically different amounts of carbohydrates depending on whether it's measured cooked or dry. While the exact number varies slightly by source, a standard cup of cooked, enriched shells has around 32-35 grams of carbohydrates. This guide reveals the precise differences and other factors that influence the final carb count of your meal.

Originating in Italy, where pasta making has been a tradition for centuries, shell pasta, or conchiglie, is beloved for its unique shape. So, what is shell pasta good for beyond a simple dish? Its unique scoop-like design makes it incredibly versatile for a variety of culinary applications.

According to a study published in *BMJ Open*, pasta can be part of a healthy, low-glycemic index (GI) diet and may contribute to weight loss when consumed in moderation. This challenges the myth that all pasta is fattening, but is shell pasta good for you specifically? Its healthfulness depends more on the ingredients and how it's prepared rather than its iconic shape.

A single standard serving of dry pasta is approximately two ounces, and for medium shell pasta, this equates to about ¾ of a cup uncooked. Therefore, when cooking for two people, you will need approximately 1.5 cups of dry shell pasta to achieve two standard-sized main-course servings.

According to pasta manufacturers, a standard 2-ounce serving of dry medium shell pasta yields approximately 1 1/8 cups when cooked. This significant expansion means that 8 ounces of dry shell pasta will cook into a much larger volume, creating a hearty meal for the whole family.

A standard serving size for most dried pasta is 2 ounces (56 grams). This is a great place to start when figuring out how much shell pasta per serving. Following this guideline will make sure there is the right amount, whether a side dish or the main course.

According to USDA data, a single cup of cooked enriched small shell pasta contains approximately 182 calories. The seemingly straightforward question of how many calories are in 1 cup of shell pasta is actually dependent on a crucial detail: is the pasta measured before or after it has been cooked?