Food Lion · 16 oz
Food Lion Penne Rigate Pasta
What it is
This is penne rigate, a type of pasta made from durum wheat. It is shaped like short tubes with angled ends, resembling the tip of a quill pen. The word 'rigate' means 'ridged' in Italian, referring to the textured surface of the pasta. This texture helps sauces cling to the pasta, making it a versatile choice for many dishes. It is a common pantry staple for home cooks.
How people cook with it
Penne rigate is a popular pasta shape that works well with a wide variety of sauces and ingredients.
- With marinara sauce
- In baked pasta dishes
- With creamy sauces
- In pasta salads
To cook penne rigate, 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 drained pasta with your favorite sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Serve immediately.
How it differs from similar foods
Penne rigate's ridged surface is its primary distinction from smooth penne. This texture allows it to hold onto thicker, chunkier sauces more effectively than its smooth counterpart. The tubular shape also traps sauce inside, delivering more flavor with each bite.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a reliable and versatile pasta shape for everyday meals.
How to keep the rest
Store unopened packages of penne rigate in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer any unused pasta to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.