Grocery
Fettuccine Pasta
What it is
Fettuccine is a type of pasta made from flour and water. It is a long, flat ribbon shape, wider than linguine but narrower than lasagna. This pasta is a staple in many cuisines, particularly Italian. It is often sold dried in packages, ready to be cooked.
How people cook with it
Fettuccine is a versatile pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Its flat surface is ideal for holding rich and creamy sauces.
- With creamy Alfredo sauce
- Tossed with pesto
- In baked pasta dishes
- With hearty meat sauces
To prepare fettuccine, bring a large pot of 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. Return the drained pasta to the pot and toss immediately with your chosen sauce and any other desired ingredients. The reserved pasta water can be used to help emulsify and thicken the sauce.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to spaghetti, fettuccine is wider and flatter, which gives it a different mouthfeel and allows it to hold heavier sauces more effectively. It is also wider than linguine, offering a more substantial base for rich toppings.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs often use fettuccine as a base for many dishes.
How to keep the rest
Store uncooked fettuccine in a cool, dry place in its original packaging. Once cooked, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Leftover cooked pasta can be reheated gently.