Safeway Inc. · 56 g
Gemelli Pasta
What it is
Gemelli is a type of Italian pasta. The name means 'twins' in Italian, referring to its twisted shape. Each piece is formed from two strands of pasta twisted together. This unique shape helps it hold sauces well. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. The pasta is dried for preservation. It is a common pantry staple for many households.
How people cook with it
This pasta shape is versatile and works well with a variety of sauces and preparations.
- Tossed with pesto
- Served with creamy sauces
- Added to pasta salads
- Baked in casseroles
To cook gemelli, 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, usually around 9-11 minutes, 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 pasta immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. The twists of the gemelli will capture the sauce beautifully.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike simpler shapes like spaghetti or penne, gemelli's twisted structure provides more surface area. This allows it to cling to thicker, chunkier sauces more effectively than smoother pasta. It also offers a more interesting texture in the mouth compared to uniformly round or tubular pasta.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that complements a wide range of sauces and dishes.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused, uncooked gemelli 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.