Grocery · 16 oz
Old Fashioned Twist Pasta
What it is
This is a type of dried pasta shaped into a spiral or corkscrew. The ridges and twists are designed to hold sauces well. It is made from durum wheat semolina, a common ingredient for pasta that gives it a firm texture when cooked. This pasta is a pantry staple for many households.
How people cook with it
Pasta like this is a versatile base for countless meals. It pairs well with a wide variety of sauces and ingredients.
- With marinara sauce
- In pasta salads
- With creamy sauces
- As a side dish
To prepare this 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 should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. You can then toss it directly with your favorite sauce, or add it to other dishes. The reserved water can help to emulsify and thicken sauces.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to smooth pasta shapes, the twists and ridges of this pasta provide more surface area. This allows it to capture and hold thicker, chunkier sauces more effectively. It also offers a different mouthfeel due to its shape and texture.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a reliable and adaptable pasta shape for everyday meals.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or its original packaging. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.