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

Walnuts vs Asparagus: 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. Walnuts has 654 calories while Asparagus has 20 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Asparagus

20 kcal

More Protein

Walnuts

9g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Asparagus

1.9g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Walnuts
654
Asparagus
20
Proteinper 100g
Walnuts
9g
Asparagus
2.2g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Walnuts
14g
Asparagus
4g
Fatper 100g
Walnuts
65g
Asparagus
0.1g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientWalnutsAsparagusDifference
Calories654kcal20kcal+634.0kcal
Protein9g2.2g+6.8g
Carbohydrates14g4g+10.0g
Fat65g0.1g+64.9g
Fiber6.7g2.1g+4.6g
Sugar2.6g1.9g+0.7g
Sodium2mg2mg0.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Walnuts

Per 100g:654 calories
Per cup (150g):981 calories
Per serving (85g):556 calories

Asparagus

Per 100g:20 calories
Per cup (150g):30 calories
Per serving (85g):17 calories

Diet Compatibility

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Asparagus

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Walnuts

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 2.2g)
  • More fiber (6.7g vs 2.1g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 2mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

When to Choose Asparagus

  • Lower in calories (20 vs 654)
  • Lower in carbs (4g vs 14g)
  • Less sugar (1.9g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Asparagus nutrition →

Walnuts vs Asparagus: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 20 for Asparagus, a difference of 634 calories. On the protein front, Walnuts delivers more with 9g per 100g versus 2.2g, 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 Walnuts and Asparagus tell different nutritional stories. Walnuts provides 14g of carbohydrates, 65g of fat, and 6.7g of fiber per 100g, while Asparagus contains 4g carbs, 0.1g fat, and 2.1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Walnuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Walnuts contains 2.6g while Asparagus has 1.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Asparagus is the lower-calorie choice at 20 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Walnuts provides more protein (9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Walnuts offers more fiber (6.7g/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, Walnuts or Asparagus?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Asparagus with 20 kcal. That's a difference of 634 calories per 100g serving.

Is Walnuts healthier than Asparagus?

Walnuts and Asparagus 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 Walnuts and Asparagus?

Walnuts has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Asparagus with 2.2g. Walnuts provides 6.8g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Walnuts or Asparagus?

For weight loss, Asparagus is the better choice with only 20 calories per 100g compared to 654 calories in Walnuts. Walnuts also offers 6.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Walnuts or Asparagus have fewer carbs?

Asparagus has fewer carbs with 4g per 100g, compared to Walnuts with 14g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Asparagus is the better option with 10.0g 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.