Giant Eagle
This is an enriched macaroni product made from semolina flour. Semolina comes from durum wheat, which is a hard variety of wheat. The enrichment process adds back certain nutrients that are removed during the milling of the flour. Cavatappi is a type of pasta characterized by its corkscrew shape, which has ridges and hollow centers. This shape is designed to hold sauces well.
This pasta is a versatile base for many dishes. Its shape makes it ideal for capturing creamy or chunky sauces.
To cook this pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cavatappi 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 immediately with your chosen sauce, or rinse with cold water if using in a cold pasta salad. The reserved pasta water can be used to help emulsify and thicken sauces.
Compared to pasta made from softer wheat, semolina pasta generally holds its shape better during cooking and has a firmer texture. The ridges and hollows of cavatappi are distinct from smoother pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne, allowing it to grip sauces more effectively.
Home cooks looking for a sturdy pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces will appreciate this product.
Store any unused portion of this pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This will prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Ensure the container is sealed tightly.