Pasta

Pasta, a staple in Italian cuisine and enjoyed worldwide, is a dried, unleavened dough typically made from durum wheat semolina and water, though other grains can be used. Available in hundreds of shapes and sizes, from long strands like spaghetti and fettuccine to tubes like penne and rigatoni, and even intricate shapes like farfalle (bowties), pasta offers a diverse range of textures and cooking applications. The flavor of plain pasta is mild and slightly nutty, allowing it to readily absorb the flavors of accompanying sauces, vegetables, and proteins. Discover versatile pasta recipes for quick weeknight dinners or elaborate gourmet meals. Learn about different pasta types and their best culinary applications for optimal cooking and delicious results.

Grain Staple Food Italian Food Carbohydrate

Common Uses

Use pasta as a base for classic Italian pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara, featuring creamy sauce made with eggs, pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Consider exploring different pasta shapes for optimal sauce adhesion and enjoyment.
Incorporate pasta into baked dishes like lasagna, using layers of pasta sheets, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese. Look for oven-ready lasagna sheets for faster and convenient preparations.
Prepare a refreshing pasta salad with cooked and cooled pasta, tossed with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and olives, dressed with a vinaigrette or creamy dressing. Opt for shorter pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle for better mixing.
Use pasta in soups and stews, adding it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming overcooked and mushy. Consider using small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini in brothy soups, or larger shapes like shells in heartier stews.
Transform leftover cooked pasta into a crispy pasta frittata, combining it with eggs, cheese, and your favorite vegetables or meats, and then baking or pan-frying it until golden brown. Experiment with different flavor combinations for unique variations.
Create a simple and satisfying pasta dish by tossing cooked pasta with pesto, a vibrant green sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Enhance with cherry tomatoes and grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Nutrition (per serving)

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Protein

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Carbs

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Sugars

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Healthy Fat

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Unhealthy Fat

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% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

Provides sustained energy due to its carbohydrate content.
Can be a good source of fiber, especially whole-wheat varieties, supporting digestive health.
Some pasta types are enriched with essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.
Offers a relatively low-fat option, contributing to a balanced diet.
Whole grain pasta can help regulate blood sugar levels due to its lower glycemic index.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Dried pasta should be stored in a cool, dry place, like a pantry, away from direct sunlight and moisture. An airtight container is ideal to prevent insect infestation and maintain quality. Properly stored dried pasta can last for 1-2 years past the "best by" date. Fresh pasta should be refrigerated and used within a few days. For longer storage, fresh pasta can be frozen; freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag.