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

Edamame 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?

Edamame is generally healthier

Edamame comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (121 vs 131), more protein (12g vs 5.3g), more fiber (5.2g vs 1.8g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Edamame

121 kcal

More Protein

Edamame

12g

More Fiber

Edamame

5.2g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Edamame
121
Pasta
131
Proteinper 100g
Edamame
12g
Pasta
5.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Edamame
9g
Pasta
25g
Fatper 100g
Edamame
5.2g
Pasta
1.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientEdamamePastaDifference
Calories121kcal131kcal-10.0kcal
Protein12g5.3g+6.7g
Carbohydrates9g25g-16.0g
Fat5.2g1.1g+4.1g
Fiber5.2g1.8g+3.4g
Sugar2.2g0.6g+1.6g
Sodium6mg3mg+3.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Edamame

Per 100g:121 calories
Per cup (150g):182 calories
Per serving (85g):103 calories

Pasta

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

Diet Compatibility

Edamame

Low-CarbVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Edamame

  • Lower in calories (121 vs 131)
  • Higher in protein (12g vs 5.3g)
  • More fiber (5.2g vs 1.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (9g vs 25g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Edamame nutrition →

When to Choose Pasta

  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 2.2g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 6mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

Edamame vs Pasta: Nutritional Analysis

Pasta is more calorie-dense at 131 calories per 100g compared to 121 for Edamame, a difference of 10 calories. On the protein front, Edamame delivers more with 12g per 100g versus 5.3g, 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 Edamame and Pasta tell different nutritional stories. Edamame provides 9g of carbohydrates, 5.2g of fat, and 5.2g of fiber per 100g, while Pasta contains 25g carbs, 1.1g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Edamame supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Edamame contains 2.2g 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: Edamame is the lower-calorie choice at 121 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Edamame provides more protein (12g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Edamame offers more fiber (5.2g/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, Edamame or Pasta?

Pasta has more calories with 131 kcal per 100g, compared to Edamame with 121 kcal. That's a difference of 10 calories per 100g serving.

Is Edamame healthier than Pasta?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Edamame is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Edamame has 121 calories, 12g protein, and 5.2g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Edamame and Pasta?

Edamame has more protein with 12g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 5.3g. Edamame provides 6.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Edamame or Pasta?

For weight loss, Edamame is the better choice with only 121 calories per 100g compared to 131 calories in Pasta. Edamame also offers 5.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Edamame or Pasta have fewer carbs?

Edamame has fewer carbs with 9g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Edamame is the better option with 16.0g 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.