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Best Substitutes for Pasta — What to Use Instead

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Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): 1:1 — Low-carb. Spiralize or use peeler. Don't overcook.

Spaghetti Squash: 1 squash ≈ 4 cups noodles — Roast and scrape out strands. Mild flavor.

Overview

Top substitute for pasta: Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) (1:1). Low-carb. Spiralize or use peeler. Don't overcook. Plus 4 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): 1:1 — Low-carb. Spiralize or use peeler. Don't overcook.
  • Spaghetti Squash: 1 squash ≈ 4 cups noodles — Roast and scrape out strands. Mild flavor.
  • Shirataki Noodles: 1:1 — Nearly zero calories. Rinse well before using.
  • Gluten-Free Pasta: 1:1 — Rice, chickpea, or lentil based. Don't overcook.
  • Sweet Potato Noodles: 1:1 — Korean glass noodles (japchae). Chewy texture.

Why This Matters

  • Pasta is a common ingredient that may need substituting
  • Dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free) may require alternatives
  • Sometimes you simply run out of an ingredient mid-recipe
  • Allergies or intolerances may necessitate a swap

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) at 1:1
  2. 2Consider the role of the ingredient (flavor, texture, binding, leavening)
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results
  5. 5Some substitutes work better in certain recipes than others

Tags

substitutesveganpastaingredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute for pasta is Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) at 1:1. Low-carb. Spiralize or use peeler. Don't overcook.