Its all about the flour.

Alternative pasta is everywhere.

So, is whole-wheatpasta healthy?

whole-wheat-pasta-GettyImages-509410408

Anna Shepulova/Getty Images

Anna Shepulova/Getty Images

What Is Whole-Wheat Pasta?

Whole-wheat pasta is any pasta made with whole wheat.

Whole-Wheat Pasta Nutrition

Whole-wheat pasta is considered nutritious, more so than traditional pasta.

Whole Wheat Pasta with Chard and Pine Nuts

Victor Protasio

Dietary fiber is essential togut healthand thedigestion process, attributing to satiety and fullness with eating.

Incorporating colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables likespinach,tomatoes, andbell pepperscan increase vitamins andantioxidants, says Hernandez.

Choosing lean protein sources likegrilled chicken,fish, or legumes further boosts nutritional value as well.

Whole-Grain Spaghetti With Garlicky Kale and Tomatoes

Hans Gissinger

Here are a few whole-wheat pasta recipes to get you started.

Whole-wheat pasta adds a nice nuttiness to thevegetarian dishthat can easily become a weeknight staple year-round.

Sauteed tomatoes add a nice saucy element to a one-pan dish thats great for the whole family.

Whole-Wheat Penne With Marinated Feta and Arugula

Greg DuPree

And adding baby arugula on top of your pasta means its basically a salad.

If you cant find whole grain cavatappi, opt for another short shape, like rigatoni or fusilli.

Mix it with any pasta to enjoy hot or cold.

Creamy butternut squash pasta

Victor Protasio

However, whole-wheat pasta coated in flavorful sauce can be indistinguishable from other pastas.

Since whole-wheat pasta is also made with wheat, it contains gluten and is not gluten free.

Zucchini Pesto Pasta Recipe

Caitlin Bensel