Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cucumber vs Pasta: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Pasta is generally healthier

Pasta comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (5.3g vs 0.7g), more fiber (1.8g vs 0.5g), less sugar (0.6g vs 1.7g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cucumber

16 kcal

More Protein

Pasta

5.3g

More Fiber

Pasta

1.8g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cucumber
16
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Cucumber
0.7g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cucumber
4g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Cucumber
0.1g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCucumberPastaDifference
Calories16kcal131kcal-115.0kcal
Protein0.7g5.3g-4.6g
Carbohydrates4g25g-21.0g
Fat0.1g1.1g-1.0g
Fiber0.5g1.8g-1.3g
Sugar1.7g0.6g+1.1g
Sodium2mg3mg-1.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cucumber

Per 100g:16 calories
Per cup (150g):24 calories
Per serving (85g):14 calories

Pasta

Per 100g:131 calories
Per cup (150g):197 calories
Per serving (85g):111 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cucumber

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cucumber

  • Lower in calories (16 vs 131)
  • Lower in carbs (4g vs 25g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 3mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Cucumber nutrition →

When to Choose Pasta

  • Higher in protein (5.3g vs 0.7g)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 0.5g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 1.7g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

Cucumber vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

Pasta is more calorie-dense at 131 calories per 100g compared to 16 for Cucumber, a difference of 115 calories. On the protein front, Pasta delivers more with 5.3g per 100g versus 0.7g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Cucumber and Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Cucumber provides 4g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0.5g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pasta supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cucumber contains 1.7g while Pasta has 0.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cucumber is the lower-calorie choice at 16 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pasta provides more protein (5.3g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pasta offers more fiber (1.8g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Cucumber or Pasta?

Pasta has more calories with 131 kcal per 100g, compared to Cucumber with 16 kcal. That's a difference of 115 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cucumber healthier than Pasta?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pasta is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pasta has 131 calories, 5.3g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cucumber and Pasta?

Pasta has more protein with 5.3g per 100g, compared to Cucumber with 0.7g. Pasta provides 4.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cucumber or Pasta?

For weight loss, Cucumber is the better choice with only 16 calories per 100g compared to 131 calories in Pasta. Pasta also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cucumber or Pasta have fewer carbs?

Cucumber has fewer carbs with 4g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cucumber is the better option with 21.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.