

The pasta shapes differ greatly from north to south, and this is due to the different sauces prepared with the ingredients available in different climates. The main purpose of different pasta shapes is just to hold the sauce better, which also depends on the roughness of the dough. pasta for soups (thimbles, bells, rings, etc …). filled pasta ( tortellini, ravioli, cannelloni etc.)ĥ. long pasta ( spaghetti, bucatini, linguine, noodles, angel hair, tagliatelle etc …)ģ. short pasta ( penne, farfalle, fusilli, maccheroni, orecchiette, etc …)Ģ. For this purpose, I would suggest grouping pasta shapes into five categories:ġ. It is important to pair the ‘right’ pasta shape with the ‘right’ sauce. The quality of the ingredients, the methods of production, the variety of formats and the countless tasty sauces available make our pasta something that we Italians are very proud of. This method makes the Italian pasta something unique, differing in quality and taste from pasta produced in other ways and in other countries. Consequently, artisanal pasta has a rough and porous texture which sauces can cling to better, and it usually “ mantiene bene la cottura” (keeps its “al dente” texture longer). This method uses the bronze extrusion dies (perforated plates for shaping), and the pasta is dried slowly at low temperatures. Most dried pasta is made industrially in large quantities, but a few artisanal producers still make it the way it was produced in the past and they use old grains such as Senatore Cappelli, Kamut, Granomonocco and many others that are not GMO (genetically modified organisms). The eggs enhance the yellow color and improve the elasticity (especially necessary for long pasta shapes such as tagliatelle), and they reduce the stickiness, too (for my fresh homemade pasta recipe).

Pasta should be divided in two major categories: dried pasta ( pasta secca) and fresh pasta ( pasta fresca) prepared with type-00 flour and eggs. In addition good carbohydrates loading is extremely important for maintaining enough endurance through an intensive physical activity. With portion control, pasta is certainly a type of ingredient that should be present in your diet.

Wholegrain pasta also provides a beneficial amount of fiber that can reduce the risk of developing metabolic diseases related to unhealthy diet. Pasta is an excellent source of vitamins (folic acid, B vitamins), minerals (selenium and manganese), is low in sodium and cholesterol free. Pasta provides is a source of good carbohydrates that serve as a primary source of fuel of your body. It can also be produced with other grains or cereals, and eggs may be used instead of water. It is a mixture of durum wheat flour and water, which is dried and cut into various shapes. Do know why? It is healthy, tasty and easy to prepare. Silvia Colloca shares her Italian family secrets in the brand-new third season of Cook like an Italian.Pasta, the queen ingredient of the Italian cuisine, is appreciated all over the world and a staple of the Mediterranean diet. Divide between bowls, top with the basil and lashings of ricotta salata. Toss well to coat every single bit of pasta. Using a slotted spoon, lift the pasta straight into the pan with the sauce, dragging a little of the cooking water with it.Cook until almost al dente (generally 1 minute less than the cooking time recommended on the packet). Drop in your pasta of choice and stir well. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil.Gently stir the roasted eggplant into the sauce.Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid and cook gently for 30–40 minutes or until slightly reduced. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer.

Half fill the tomato can with water and swirl around to incorporate any tomato clinging to the side, then pour into the sauce. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a large heavy-based frying pan over medium heat.Place the eggplant on the lined tray, drizzle with 50 ml oil, season to taste and toss to coat well, then roast for 35-40 minutes or until golden and tender.
