Carrabba’s Italian Grill offers several gluten-free pasta options for guests looking to avoid gluten. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s important to know exactly what ingredients are used in these gluten-free pastas to ensure they are safe to consume.
Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Pasta Options
There are three main gluten-free pasta options available at Carrabba’s (as of October 2023):
- Gluten-Free Penne Rustica
- Gluten-Free Spaghetti
- Gluten-Free Fettuccine
These pastas can be substituted in place of regular wheat pasta for most entrees on the menu. Carrabba’s also offers gluten-free lasagna upon request.
Gluten-Free Penne Rustica Ingredients
The main ingredients in Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Penne Rustica include:
- Water
- Cornstarch
- Rice flour
- Potato starch
- Soybean oil
- Salt
- Mono and diglycerides
- Xanthan gum
- Guar gum
That covers all the main ingredients in the gluten-free penne pasta. There are no major allergenic ingredients like dairy, eggs, nuts, etc. It’s made from a blend of corn, rice, potatoes, and soy.
The penne shape allows the pasta to hold sauces well. According to Carrabba’s, this gluten-free pasta has a delicate taste and al dente texture when cooked properly.
Gluten-Free Spaghetti Ingredients
The main ingredients in Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Spaghetti include:
- Water
- Rice flour
- Cornstarch
- Potato starch
- Soybean oil
- Salt
- Xanthan gum
- Guar gum
Again, this gluten-free spaghetti contains no major allergenic ingredients. It has a blend of rice flour, corn, potatoes, and soybean oil. The long thin strands allow pasta sauces to cling nicely.
Gluten-Free Fettuccine Ingredients
Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Fettuccine is made up of these main ingredients:
- Water
- Rice flour
- Cornstarch
- Potato starch
- Soybean oil
- Xanthan gum
- Guar gum
- Salt
The fettuccine shape has a nice wide surface area for holding thick and chunky pasta sauces. The ingredients are very similar to the spaghetti, without any major allergens.
Are Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Pastas Safe?
Based on the ingredients lists, Carrabba’s gluten-free pastas look to be safe for those avoiding gluten due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. They do not contain any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains.
The brand Carrabba’s uses for their gluten-free pasta is Barilla. Barilla pastas are certified gluten-free to less than 10 parts per million. This very low level of gluten makes it safe for most people on a medically necessary gluten-free diet.
Of course, with any menu item, there is always a risk of cross-contamination during preparation and cooking. Guests with celiac disease should advise their server of the allergy so that proper precautions can be taken in the kitchen.
Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for a 3.5 oz serving of Carrabba’s gluten-free pasta:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 3g |
The gluten-free pasta is higher in calories and carbohydrates compared to a serving of regular wheat pasta. This is typical for gluten-free substitutes made with starches and gums.
Each serving also provides a good amount of fiber and plant-based protein from the corn, rice, potato and soybean ingredients.
Gluten-Free Pasta Cooking Instructions
Cook the gluten-free pasta according to this recommended method for best results:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Use 4 quarts of water per 1 pound of dried pasta.
- Add a tablespoon of oil to the boiling water to prevent sticking.
- Slowly add the pasta and stir immediately to prevent clumping.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 7-9 minutes until al dente (still slightly firm).
- Drain cooked pasta well and add it immediately to sauce.
The pasta cooks faster than wheat pasta so keep a close eye on it. Overcooking will cause the texture to become mushy. Allow it to finish cooking in the sauce for best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Carrabba’s gluten-free pasta can be served with a variety of their signature Italian dishes:
- Penne Rustica – Pair with meat sauces or creamy alfredos.
- Spaghetti – Top with Bolognese, marinara, or olive oil and garlic.
- Fettuccine – Toss with Alfredo sauce, pesto, or chicken & prosciutto.
Be sure to let your server know to prepare your choice of pasta gluten-free. Most menu items can be adapted with the substitution.
Is Carrabba’s Gluten-Free Pasta Healthy?
Carrabba’s gluten-free pasta can be part of a healthy diet for most people when consumed in moderation. Some benefits include:
- Provides an option for those with gluten-related disorders
- No major allergens like dairy, nuts, shellfish, etc.
- Made from vegetable-based ingredients like rice, corn, potatoes
- Good source of plant-based protein and fiber
- Naturally cholesterol free
- Low in fat and sugars
There are also some downsides to consider:
- Higher in carbohydrates and calories compared to wheat pasta
- High glycemic index which may spike blood sugar
- Lacks nutrients found in whole grain wheat pasta
- More processed than a whole food pasta
Overall, indulging in Carrabba’s gluten-free pasta occasionally as part of a veggie-centric Italian meal can fit into a healthy lifestyle. Those with diabetes or weight concerns may want to limit portion sizes. Adding lean protein and healthy fats helps to control blood sugar and hunger.
Cost of Gluten-Free Pasta at Carrabba’s
Ordering the gluten-free pasta options at Carrabba’s comes with an upcharge compared to traditional wheat pasta. As of October 2023, pricing is:
- Gluten-Free Penne Rustica – $3.00 extra
- Gluten-Free Spaghetti – $3.00 extra
- Gluten-Free Fettuccine – $3.00 extra
This reasonably covers the extra cost for the restaurant of providing specialty gluten-free pasta options. Many restaurants charge $1-2 extra for gluten-free substitutions.
Keep in mind that entrees made with gluten-free pasta do not cost more at Carrabba’s – just the pasta itself. So feel free to order your favorite pasta dish gluten-free without breaking the bank.
Other Gluten-Free Menu Items
In addition to pastas, Carrabba’s also offers a variety of other gluten-free menu items:
- Wood-Fired Oven Pizzas made with gluten-free crust
- Chicken dishes with GF breading (Chicken Bryan, Chicken Marsala)
- Gluten-Free Lasagna (upon request)
- Salads with GF dressing options
- Desserts including GF Tiramisu and GF Cheesecake
There are many possibilities to mix and match gluten-free appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts for a satisfying Italian feast. Just inform your server of any gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
Carrabba’s gluten-free pastas provide a delicious, Italian-inspired option for those avoiding gluten. The penne, spaghetti and fettuccine are made with vegetable-based flours and safely contain under 10 ppm gluten. While pricier than wheat pastas, they allow many menu items to be prepared gluten-free. Overall, the gluten-free pasta ingredients and nutrition information indicate they can be enjoyed guilt-free as part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed in moderation.