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Italian Pasta

The heart and soul of Old World cuisine, Italian pasta is used in a seemingly limitless combination of toppings and sauces. A simple combination of flour, water, and eggs, noodles are enjoyed all over the world and every culture has their own version. What sets Italian pasta apart from the other types is the durum wheat, which has a high gluten content and low moisture. The unleavened dough is rolled into sheets and then cut into a wide variety of lengths and shapes. Some pasta is made fresh (pasta fresca) and filled with pesto, meat, and other delicacies. See how you can make Italian pasta in your own kitchen! 

Pasta is a staple food in Italy and is enjoyed all over the world. The history of pasta dates back to the 8th century, and it has been a part of the Italian cuisine for centuries. There are several different types of pasta, each with its own unique shape, texture, and flavor. In this blog post, we will explore the different varieties of Italian pasta and their uses.

Types of Italian Pasta

1. Spaghetti: This is the most recognizable type of pasta and is long and thin in shape. It is often paired with a tomato-based sauce or a meat sauce.

2. Fettuccine: Fettuccine is a flat, ribbon-like pasta that is thicker than spaghetti. It is often paired with creamy sauces, like Alfredo sauce, or with meat dishes like chicken or steak.

3. Penne: Penne is a tube-shaped pasta that is cut at an angle. It is a versatile pasta that can be paired with a variety of sauces, from tomato to pesto.

4. Ravioli: Ravioli is a type of pasta that is filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. It is often served in a broth or with a sauce.

5. Lasagna: Lasagna is a type of pasta that is layered with meat, cheese, and tomato sauce. It is a popular dish in Italy and around the world.

6. Angel Hair: Angel hair is a thin, delicate pasta that is often paired with light sauces, like a lemon and butter sauce or a tomato-based sauce.

7. Squid ink Pasta:  made by combining pasta dough with squid ink. 

Uses for Italian Pasta

1. Pasta Dishes: can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple pasta with sauce to more complex dishes like lasagna or ravioli.

2. Side Dishes: can also be used as a side dish, especially in cold pasta salads.

3. Casseroles:  can be used in casseroles, like baked ziti or macaroni and cheese.

In conclusion, Italian pasta is a staple food in Italian cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world. There are many different types of Italian pasta, each with its own unique shape, texture, and flavor. Whether you prefer spaghetti with a tomato-based sauce or fettuccine with a creamy sauce, there is an Italian pasta for everyone.

What other types of Italian pasta brands are there?

From angel hair to ziti, Supermarket Italy has every type of authentic pasta imaginable. Long strand pasta like spaghetti, fettuccini, and the tubular bucatini have a tender mouth feel, which provides you with a softer and more delicate bite. Spirals and shells like fusilli, rigatoni, or rotelle are great for those who prefer more robust pasta shapes with a firmer texture. Smaller pasta shapes like anellini, orzo, and fregola sarda are perfect for incorporating in soup and rice-like dishes. For those with gluten sensitivities, Supermarket Italy also carries an extensive selection of Italian gluten-free pasta made with corn, rice, and quinoa, which gives it a similar texture to traditional pasta but without the gluten.

Italian Pasta Recipes

Some recipes are so easy, all you need is olive oil and parmesan cheeses. Others need more ingredients. Here are some good ones:

Pasta in Alfredo sauce with chicken

Parmigiano Reggiano Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Prosciutto

Scungilli in marinara sauce with linguine

 Spaghetti alla Carbonara

The Best Sauces for Italian Pasta Dishes

The secret to great Italian cooking is the sauce, but sometimes there isn’t enough time to make it from scratch. Our selection of premium quality pasta sauces will transform your favorite pasta into a satisfying meal that everyone will love. For an easy weeknight meal that can be put together in a snap, keep your pantry stocked with top brands like Agromonte, Coluccio, and La Fiammante and find pasta recipes on the Supermarket Italy blog.