Grocery
Ziti Pasta
What it is
Ziti is a type of pasta that is tubular in shape, similar to penne but typically longer and without ridges. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. The pasta is dried and packaged for sale. It is a staple in many kitchens and is known for its ability to hold sauces well. The shape makes it suitable for baked dishes and casseroles.
How people cook with it
Ziti is a versatile pasta shape that works well in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in Italian-American cuisine.
- Baked ziti
- Pasta bakes
- Sauced pasta dishes
- Casseroles
To prepare ziti for cooking, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly. It can then be tossed with your favorite sauce, added to a baked dish, or incorporated into a casserole. For baked dishes, it is often layered with sauce and cheese before being baked until bubbly and golden.
How it differs from similar foods
Ziti differs from penne in its length and the absence of ridges. Its smooth surface means it does not hold onto chunky sauces as tenaciously as ridged pasta, but it is excellent for baked dishes where the sauce can permeate the tubes.
Who it is for
Home cooks preparing classic Italian-American meals often choose ziti.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused, uncooked ziti in its original packaging or an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for a long time. Once cooked, leftovers should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.