Grocery
Orecchiette Buffala Prima Pasta
What it is
Orecchiette Buffala Prima is a type of dried pasta shaped like small ears. The name 'orecchiette' comes from the Italian word for 'little ears.' This pasta is made with durum wheat semolina, a common grain used for pasta making. It has a slightly thicker texture than some other pasta shapes, which helps it hold sauces well. The pasta is dried to ensure a long shelf life.
How people cook with it
This pasta shape is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Its unique shape makes it a fun addition to any meal.
- With chunky vegetable sauces
- In pasta salads
- With pesto
- In baked pasta dishes
To cook orecchiette, 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. Toss the cooked pasta immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne, orecchiette's concave shape is designed to scoop up and hold thicker sauces and small ingredients, such as finely chopped vegetables or bits of sausage. This makes it particularly good for rustic or hearty dishes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that complements robust sauces and ingredients will enjoy this pasta.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dried pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or its original packaging. This will help prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Proper storage ensures the pasta maintains its quality for future use.