Grocery
Torsades Pasta
What it is
Torsades are a type of short pasta characterized by their distinctive spiral or twisted shape. This shape is created by extruding the pasta dough through a die that imparts the twist. The ridges and nooks of the torsades are excellent for holding sauces, making them a versatile choice for many pasta dishes. They are typically made from durum wheat semolina and water, a common combination for dried pasta.
How people cook with it
These pasta twists are a popular choice for everyday meals and can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes.
- With hearty meat sauces
- In pasta salads
- With creamy cheese sauces
- As a side dish
To prepare torsades, 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 the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss the drained torsades immediately with your chosen sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Serve hot.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike smooth pasta shapes, the twisted form of torsades provides more surface area and crevices. This allows them to capture and hold onto thicker, chunkier sauces more effectively than simpler shapes like penne or macaroni. The texture also offers a slightly different mouthfeel.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces will appreciate torsades.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store any remaining uncooked torsades in an airtight container or the original packaging in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.