Grocery
Spiral Pasta
What it is
This is a type of dry pasta shaped into spirals or twists. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. The unique shape allows it to hold sauces well. It cooks relatively quickly and is a versatile pantry staple. It is a common choice for many pasta dishes.
How people cook with it
Spiral pasta is a popular ingredient for a wide range of meals. Its shape makes it ideal for capturing sauces.
- Pasta salads
- Baked pasta dishes
- Soups
- Side dishes
To cook spiral pasta, 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 is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well. It can then be tossed with your favorite sauce, added to soups, or used in cold pasta salads. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the spirals.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to long pasta shapes like spaghetti, spiral pasta's twists and turns are excellent at trapping chunky or creamy sauces. It also tends to cook a bit more evenly than some other shapes, ensuring a consistent texture throughout the dish.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a dependable and adaptable pasta shape will find this useful.
How to keep the rest
Store any leftover uncooked spiral pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Properly stored, it can last for a long time.