Alce nero
Alce Nero Organic Penne Rigate
What it is
This is a package of penne rigate, a type of pasta. Penne rigate means that the pasta tubes have ridges on their surface. These ridges are designed to help hold sauces. The pasta is made from durum wheat semolina, which gives it a firm texture when cooked. It is an organic product, meaning it is produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The pasta is dried and ready for cooking.
How people cook with it
Penne rigate is a versatile pasta shape that works well with many types of sauces and in baked dishes.
- With chunky tomato sauces
- In baked pasta dishes
- With creamy sauces
- In pasta salads
To cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne rigate and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente, meaning it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss immediately with your chosen sauce to ensure the sauce adheres to the ridges and tubes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to smooth penne (penne lisce), penne rigate's textured surface provides more area for sauces to cling to. This makes it a better choice for heartier or chunkier sauces that might slide off smoother pasta shapes. The ridges also add a subtle textural element to the dish.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a classic pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces.
How to keep the rest
Store the unopened package in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.