Grocery
Spaghetti Pasta
What it is
Spaghetti is a long, thin, solid, cylindrical pasta. It is a staple food of Italian cuisine. It is made from milled wheat and water. The pasta is typically dried and then cooked by boiling. It is a versatile ingredient that can be served with a wide variety of sauces and toppings. Its shape allows it to hold sauces well.
How people cook with it
Spaghetti is a fundamental element in many classic dishes. It pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty sauces.
- With marinara sauce
- With pesto
- In baked dishes
- With meatballs
To prepare spaghetti, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss the drained spaghetti immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the strands evenly. Serve hot.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to thicker pasta shapes like fettuccine or lasagna, spaghetti's thinness allows it to cook more quickly. Its cylindrical form is ideal for clinging to smooth sauces, whereas wider noodles might be better suited for chunkier ragus.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on spaghetti for its adaptability and ease of preparation.
How to keep the rest
Store uncooked spaghetti in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry, in its original packaging or an airtight container. Once cooked, refrigerate any leftovers promptly in a sealed container. It is best consumed within a few days of cooking.