Grocery
Carbe Diem Penne Pasta
What it is
This is a package of dried penne pasta. Penne is a type of pasta characterized by its cylindrical shape and angled ends, resembling the tip of a quill pen. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. The pasta is dried to ensure a long shelf life and is a pantry staple for many households. The texture of dried pasta is firm and holds its shape well when cooked.
How people cook with it
Penne pasta is incredibly versatile and forms the base for countless dishes. It pairs well with a wide variety of sauces and ingredients.
- Baked pasta dishes
- Creamy sauces
- Hearty meat sauces
- Pasta salads
To cook penne, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dried pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. The reserved water can be used to help emulsify sauces and bind them to the pasta. Toss immediately with your chosen sauce.
How it differs from similar foods
Penne's tubular shape and ridges (if ridged penne) are designed to capture and hold sauce effectively. This makes it ideal for thicker, chunkier sauces that can cling to the inside and outside of the pasta. It differs from flatter pastas like fettuccine or spaghetti, which are better suited for lighter, oil-based sauces.
Who it is for
Home cooks preparing weeknight dinners or planning for potlucks will find this pasta useful.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dried penne in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or its original packaging. This will protect it from moisture and pests, ensuring its quality for future use. Properly stored, dried pasta can last for a very long time.