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

Pasta vs Bell Pepper: 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?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Pasta has 131 calories while Bell Pepper has 31 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Bell Pepper

31 kcal

More Protein

Pasta

5.3g

More Fiber

Bell Pepper

2.2g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pasta
131
Bell Pepper
31
Proteinper 100g
Pasta
5.3g
Bell Pepper
1g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pasta
25g
Bell Pepper
6g
Fatper 100g
Pasta
1.1g
Bell Pepper
0.3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPastaBell PepperDifference
Calories131kcal31kcal+100.0kcal
Protein5.3g1g+4.3g
Carbohydrates25g6g+19.0g
Fat1.1g0.3g+0.8g
Fiber1.8g2.2g-0.4g
Sugar0.6g3g-2.4g
Sodium3mg3mg0.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pasta

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

Bell Pepper

Per 100g:31 calories
Per cup (150g):47 calories
Per serving (85g):26 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Bell Pepper

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pasta

  • Higher in protein (5.3g vs 1g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 3g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 3mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

When to Choose Bell Pepper

  • Lower in calories (31 vs 131)
  • More fiber (2.2g vs 1.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (6g vs 25g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Bell Pepper nutrition →

Pasta vs Bell Pepper: Nutritional Analysis

Pasta is more calorie-dense at 131 calories per 100g compared to 31 for Bell Pepper, a difference of 100 calories. On the protein front, Pasta delivers more with 5.3g per 100g versus 1g, 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 Pasta and Bell Pepper tell different nutritional stories. Pasta provides 25g of carbohydrates, 1.1g of fat, and 1.8g of fiber per 100g, while Bell Pepper contains 6g carbs, 0.3g fat, and 2.2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Bell Pepper supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pasta contains 0.6g while Bell Pepper has 3g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Bell Pepper is the lower-calorie choice at 31 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: Bell Pepper offers more fiber (2.2g/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, Pasta or Bell Pepper?

Pasta has more calories with 131 kcal per 100g, compared to Bell Pepper with 31 kcal. That's a difference of 100 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pasta healthier than Bell Pepper?

Pasta and Bell Pepper have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Pasta and Bell Pepper?

Pasta has more protein with 5.3g per 100g, compared to Bell Pepper with 1g. Pasta provides 4.3g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pasta or Bell Pepper?

For weight loss, Bell Pepper is the better choice with only 31 calories per 100g compared to 131 calories in Pasta. Bell Pepper also offers 2.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pasta or Bell Pepper have fewer carbs?

Bell Pepper has fewer carbs with 6g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Bell Pepper is the better option with 19.0g 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.