Grocery
Linguine Pasta
What it is
This is a type of dried pasta made from durum wheat semolina and water. It is shaped into long, flat strands, similar to fettuccine but narrower. The pasta is dried to preserve its quality and shelf life. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Italian. The texture of the dried pasta is firm and holds its shape well when cooked.
How people cook with it
Linguine is a versatile pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients.
- With seafood sauces
- Tossed with pesto
- In creamy dishes
- As a base for pasta salads
To prepare, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dried linguine 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 or ingredients. The starch from the pasta water can help emulsify sauces, making them cling better to the strands.
How it differs from similar foods
Linguine is distinguished by its flat, narrow shape, which is wider than spaghetti but narrower than fettuccine. This shape allows it to hold lighter sauces and seafood preparations effectively, providing a different mouthfeel compared to round strands.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs preparing classic Italian dishes.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dried linguine in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or its original packaging. 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.