Hey there, noodle lovers! Who knew that scouting for the healthiest noodles could be as exciting as finding your new favorite dinner spot? Well, strap in, because we’re about to dive into a world where chickpea pasta twirls with as much gusto as any wheat strand, and kelp noodles shimmer like treasures from the sea. This isn’t just about swapping out your regular pasta; it’s about discovering a whole new landscape of tasty, nutrient-packed options.
Whether you’re keeping it gluten-free, watching your carbs, or just in the mood to shake things up a bit, there’s a noodle out there with your name on it. We’ve lined up some of the most delicious, surprising noodle alternatives that promise to perk up your plate and amp up your mealtime mojo. From earthy beetroot fettuccine to springy spirals of spaghetti squash, each one is a game changer in its own right.
So, grab your forks (and maybe a spiralizer), and let’s get ready to twirl our way into some seriously good eats. These noodles aren’t just about keeping things light—they’re about bringing a whole lot of fun and flavor into your kitchen. Let’s unravel the tasty truth behind the healthiest noodles on the block!
When white flour is shown the door, don’t think for a second that the pasta party’s over. Oh no, this is where it gets good. With so many creative noodle options out there—made from legumes, veggies, and even the humble seaweed—your bowl just got a major upgrade. Let’s dive into some of the tastiest, twirliest alternatives that are ready to shake up your routine and make pasta night more exciting than ever.
Craving something that feels as good as it tastes? Meet whole wheat pasta, the robust, nutty character in the world of noodles. Here’s why it stands out:
Where to Find It: Look for whole wheat options from well-known pasta makers such as:
Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, there’s a whole wheat pasta waiting to be the hero of your next meal.
Got a hankering for pasta but need to dodge gluten? Chickpea pasta steps up to the plate, offering a taste and texture so close to traditional pasta, you might just do a double-take. Here’s the scoop on why chickpea pasta is becoming a pantry staple:
Where to Shop: Check out some of these top picks for chickpea pasta:
You’ll usually find the best variety in the gluten-free or health food section of your local or online natural grocery stores. So next time you’re navigating the aisles, keep an eye out for these power-packed pasta alternatives.
Who knew the secret to a spectacular low-carb noodle was hiding under the sea? Kelp noodles are here to float your boat with their completely translucent and almost magical appearance. These aren’t your garden-variety noodles; they’re a delightful spin on “seafood” that’s actually made from seaweed! Here’s what you need to know:
Where to Find Them: Top Brands to Try
Look for them in the Asian section of your favorite health food store or snag them online. Whether tossed in a salad or swimming in a soup, kelp noodles offer a refreshing change of pace from the usual noodle narrative.
Welcome to the lighter side of pasta—hearts of palm noodles are here to win over your heart and your palate! If you’re looking for a noodle that ticks all the boxes—low in calories, low in carbs, and high on versatility—look no further.
Sustainable Choices: To ensure you’re not only eating well but also responsibly, opt for eco-friendly brands committed to sustainable harvesting:
Whether you’re whipping up a quick salad or a cozy bowl of “pasta,” Hearts of palm noodles provide a nutritious base that will keep you satisfied without the heaviness of grain-based noodles.
Oh, zoodles! Just when you thought pasta couldn’t get any more fun, zucchini noodles swirl into your life. These twirls of joy are turning every veggie skeptic into a veggie enthusiast. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or prepping for a posh dinner, zoodles are about to become your go-to for all things tasty and fresh.
Ready in a Flash: No Time to Spiralize? No Problem! Check out the freezer aisle for some ready-made zoodle magic. Perfect for those “I can’t even” days. Look for brands like:
Zucchini noodles are the pinnacle of quick and healthy eating. They’re proving that yes, you can have your pasta and eat it too—minus the carbs!
Rice noodles might just be the most playful pasta out there, popping up in everything from Thai curries to Vietnamese pho. With their array of shapes and sizes—think angel hair thin to satisfyingly broad—they’re a testament to the diversity and adaptability of noodle cuisine.
Popular Picks Include:
So, whether you’re twirling them on your fork or scooping them up with chopsticks, rice noodles offer a delicate yet satisfying taste of tradition with every bite.
Have you ever spotted those unique, almost crystal-clear noodles in the refrigerated section and wondered what they were all about? Let’s clear up the mystery: meet shirataki noodles, a standout star from Japan that’s as intriguing as they come. Made from the konjac yam, these noodles are notable for their unique, jelly-like texture and minimal calorie content.
Where to Find Them: Curious to give them a try? These popular brands are known for their quality shirataki noodles:
Shirataki noodles are perfect for anyone looking to switch up their noodle game without adding extra calories.
Beetroot fettuccine is here to make your mealtime anything but ordinary. With its vibrant color and delightful earthy taste, this noodle is a natural star—perfect for when you want something quick, easy, and full of flair. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:
Where to find it: Looking to add some color to your kitchen? You can find Wildfare’s beetroot fettuccine at specialty grocery stores and online markets. It’s also available in select health food stores that stock unique pasta options.
Ever thought a noodle could change the world? Well, buckle up because BamNut Noodles from WhatIf Foods are here to do just that. Made from the mighty Bambara groundnut, these noodles aren’t just a twist in your pasta dish—they’re a twist in the way we think about what we eat!
Where to Snag Some: You can find BamNut Noodles at your local health food store, specialty markets, and online.
Before zoodles were even a twinkle in a food blogger’s eye, spaghetti squash was making veggie pasta cool. This fabulous squash doesn’t just mimic spaghetti—it is the pasta alternative we all need in our lives. Low in calories but rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, K, and a slew of B vitamins, this winter squash is the champion of healthy comfort food.
Where to Find It: While you can snag frozen or dried versions from brands like Green Giant and Solely, fresh spaghetti squash is where the magic’s at. Hit up your local farmers market or grocery store to get the freshest squash that cooks up the best.
Glass noodles, also known as cellophane noodles or bean thread noodles, are a staple in many Asian cuisines. Made from mung bean, sweet potato, or tapioca starch, these translucent noodles turn see-through when cooked and have a wonderfully chewy texture that soaks up flavors like a sponge.
Where to Find Them: Glass noodles are widely available in the Asian section of grocery stores or online. Popular brands include:
Give our tasty glass noodle recipe a try for a fun dinner idea with amazing texture and a burst of color!
The healthiest noodles are those made from whole, nutrient-rich ingredients that offer benefits beyond basic carbohydrates. Whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, and shirataki noodles are excellent choices as they provide additional fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. Options like spaghetti squash and zucchini noodles offer lower-calorie, vitamin-rich alternatives to traditional pasta.
Yes, there are several low-carb noodles that mimic the texture and taste of regular pasta. Shirataki noodles are a popular choice as they are very low in carbs and calories, while chickpea and lentil pastas offer a similar texture to traditional pasta with the added benefits of protein and fiber.
To prevent gluten-free noodles, such as those made from rice or corn, from becoming mushy, it’s crucial to not overcook them. Cook these noodles al dente according to the package instructions, and rinse them under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process. This technique helps maintain their texture and prevents them from clumping together.
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So many different noodle options! They all look so good
Ooh! Some of these are my favorite brands! Love trying new noodles 😀
love banza’s pasta! interested in trying the rice noodles – they look so light and tasty!