Grocery · 16 oz
Organic Orecchiette Rigate Pasta
What it is
This is a type of dried pasta made from durum wheat semolina. The name 'orecchiette' means 'little ears' in Italian, referring to their distinctive concave shape. The 'rigate' indicates that the pasta has ridges on its surface. These ridges help to hold sauces. It is made with organic ingredients, meaning the wheat was grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This pasta is a staple for many home cooks.
How people cook with it
Orecchiette is a versatile pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Its unique form makes it ideal for capturing chunky sauces.
- With chunky vegetable sauces
- In pasta salads
- With pesto
- In baked pasta dishes
To cook orecchiette, bring a large pot of generously 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 the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss the drained pasta immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Serve hot.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike smoother pasta shapes, the 'rigate' or ridged surface of orecchiette, combined with its cup-like shape, excels at trapping and holding thicker, chunkier sauces and small ingredients like peas or finely diced vegetables. This makes it a more satisfying vehicle for certain types of dishes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that can hold sauces well will appreciate this orecchiette.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused portion of the dried pasta in its original packaging or an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Ensure it is sealed to prevent moisture absorption and pest infestation. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for a long time.