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

Pasta vs Peanuts: 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 fewer calories (131 vs 567), less sugar (0.6g vs 4.7g), less sodium (3mg vs 18mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pasta

131 kcal

More Protein

Peanuts

26g

More Fiber

Peanuts

9g

Less Sugar

Pasta

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pasta
131
Peanuts
567
Proteinper 100g
Pasta
5.3g
Peanuts
26g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pasta
25g
Peanuts
16g
Fatper 100g
Pasta
1.1g
Peanuts
49g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPastaPeanutsDifference
Calories131kcal567kcal-436.0kcal
Protein5.3g26g-20.7g
Carbohydrates25g16g+9.0g
Fat1.1g49g-47.9g
Fiber1.8g9g-7.2g
Sugar0.6g4.7g-4.1g
Sodium3mg18mg-15.0mg

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

Peanuts

Per 100g:567 calories
Per cup (150g):851 calories
Per serving (85g):482 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pasta

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Peanuts

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pasta

  • Lower in calories (131 vs 567)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 4.7g)
  • Lower sodium (3mg vs 18mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Pasta nutrition →

When to Choose Peanuts

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 5.3g)
  • More fiber (9g vs 1.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (16g vs 25g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Peanuts nutrition →

Pasta vs Peanuts: Nutritional Analysis

Peanuts is more calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100g compared to 131 for Pasta, a difference of 436 calories. On the protein front, Peanuts delivers more with 26g 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 Pasta and Peanuts tell different nutritional stories. Pasta provides 25g of carbohydrates, 1.1g of fat, and 1.8g of fiber per 100g, while Peanuts contains 16g carbs, 49g fat, and 9g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pasta contains 0.6g while Peanuts has 4.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pasta is the lower-calorie choice at 131 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Peanuts provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Peanuts offers more fiber (9g/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 Peanuts?

Peanuts has more calories with 567 kcal per 100g, compared to Pasta with 131 kcal. That's a difference of 436 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pasta healthier than Peanuts?

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 Pasta and Peanuts?

Peanuts has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 5.3g. Peanuts provides 20.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pasta or Peanuts?

For weight loss, Pasta is the better choice with only 131 calories per 100g compared to 567 calories in Peanuts. Peanuts also offers 9g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pasta or Peanuts have fewer carbs?

Peanuts has fewer carbs with 16g per 100g, compared to Pasta with 25g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Peanuts is the better option with 9.0g 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.