Grocery
Bucatini Pasta
What it is
Bucatini is a long, hollow pasta shape originating from Italy. It is similar to spaghetti but with a hole running through the center. This unique structure allows sauces to penetrate the pasta, creating a richer flavor experience with every bite. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water, a classic combination for dried pasta.
How people cook with it
This pasta shape is a versatile choice for a variety of dishes, from simple weeknight meals to more elaborate culinary creations.
- With hearty meat sauces
- In baked pasta dishes
- With light tomato sauces
- Tossed with vegetables
To prepare bucatini, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce cling to the strands.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike spaghetti, bucatini's hollow center allows it to absorb more sauce. This makes it an excellent choice for dishes where you want the sauce to be a prominent part of the flavor profile. The thickness is also generally greater than spaghetti.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a satisfying pasta shape that holds sauce well will appreciate bucatini.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dried bucatini in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Properly stored, it can last for a long time.