Giant Eagle
Farfalle, commonly known as bow-tie pasta, is a type of pasta shaped like a bow tie or butterfly. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. The distinctive shape has ruffled edges and a pinched center, which helps it hold sauces well. This pasta is a versatile pantry staple, suitable for a wide range of dishes.
Farfalle pasta is a popular choice for both simple weeknight meals and more elaborate pasta creations.
To cook farfalle, 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, meaning it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss the drained farfalle with your desired sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the right consistency. It can also be added directly to soups or baked into casseroles.
Compared to long pasta shapes like spaghetti, farfalle's unique shape allows it to capture chunkier ingredients and thicker sauces more effectively. Its ruffled edges provide more surface area for sauce adhesion, making each bite flavorful. It also tends to cook more evenly than some other shapes.
Home cooks looking for a fun and functional pasta shape will appreciate farfalle.
Store uncooked farfalle in a cool, dry place in its original packaging or an airtight container. Once cooked, refrigerate any leftovers promptly in a sealed container. Properly stored, it can last for several months before cooking.