Grocery
Ziti Pasta
What it is
Ziti is a type of pasta that is tube-shaped and cut into short, straight pieces. It is typically made from durum wheat semolina and water. The pasta is dried and then packaged for sale. Ziti is a common ingredient in many Italian-American dishes. It is known for its ability to hold sauce well due to its shape and slightly rough texture when cooked.
How people cook with it
This pasta is a versatile base for a wide range of baked and sauced dishes.
- Baked pasta dishes
- Sauced pasta meals
- Pasta salads
- Side dish
To prepare ziti, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well. It can then be tossed with your favorite sauce, mixed into a baked casserole, or chilled for a pasta salad. The hollow center and ridges on some ziti varieties help capture and hold sauces, making every bite flavorful. It is a staple for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to penne, ziti is typically smooth-walled and cut straight, whereas penne often has ridges and angled ends. Rigatoni is larger and has ridges. Ziti's simpler shape makes it ideal for dishes where the sauce is the star, as it doesn't compete visually or texturally.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a classic pasta shape for family meals will appreciate ziti.
How to keep the rest
Store unopened packages of ziti in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, transfer any leftover dry pasta to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.