Safeway Inc., Signature Select
Safeway Signature Select Rotelle Pasta
What it is
Rotelle, also known as wagon wheel pasta, is a fun, wheel-shaped dry pasta made from durum wheat semolina. Its distinctive shape features spokes and a hollow center, making it appealing for various dishes. This pasta is a pantry staple, offering a versatile base for countless meals. It cooks relatively quickly and holds its shape well, making it a reliable choice for everyday cooking.
How people cook with it
This pasta shape is excellent for holding sauces and is a favorite among families.
- Tossed with butter and cheese
- Added to pasta salads
- Mixed into soups
- Served with a hearty meat sauce
To cook rotelle, 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 with your favorite sauce, add it to a soup, or chill it for a pasta salad. The small wheels are designed to capture and hold sauces effectively.
How it differs from similar foods
Rotelle's wheel shape offers a unique texture and appearance compared to more common pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne. The spokes and hollow center are particularly good at trapping chunky sauces and small ingredients like peas or diced vegetables, ensuring more flavor in every bite.
Who it is for
This pasta is a great choice for home cooks looking to add a playful element to their meals, especially for children.
How to keep the rest
Store uncooked rotelle in a cool, dry place in its original packaging or an airtight container. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for a long time, making it a convenient item to keep on hand for quick meal preparation.