Grain Product | Vegetarian Low Fat

Pasta

Triticum aestivum Allergens: Wheat|Eggs
pasta

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Durum Wheat

The Forktionary Angle

"The universal language of comfort food, connecting cultures through countless delicious forms."

Definition

A staple food of Italian origin, typically made from unleavened dough of durum wheat flour, water, and sometimes eggs.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Starchy, Nutty
TextureChewy, Firm, Smooth, Soft
AromaMild, Wheat-like
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Al Dente Texture

Firm to the bite, not mushy.

Global Production

Over 17 million tons annually.

Shelf Life (Uncooked)

2-3 years (dry, airtight).

Nutrition Facts

Per 56g
Calories371
Total Fat1.5g
Saturated Fat0.3g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein13g
Total Carbohydrate74g
Dietary Fiber3.2g
Total Sugars2.7g
Calcium21mg
Iron1.2mg
Potassium223mg

Chef’s Secret

Always cook pasta in generously salted water (like the sea) to season it from within. Reserve some pasta water to emulsify sauces.

Substitutions

Best Match

Egg Noodles

1:1

Similar texture, often richer flavor due to egg

Zucchini Noodles

1:1

Low-carb, different texture, fresh taste

Rice Noodles

1:1

Gluten-free alternative, softer texture

Quinoa

1:1

Gluten-free grain, different form, provides carbs

Buying Guide

Look for pasta made from 100% durum wheat semolina for best texture. Check for enriched varieties.

Flavor Pairings

Tomato sauces cream sauces pesto vegetables meats seafood.

Recipes Using Pasta

Dietary Low Cholesterol 3 Steps Or Less Healthy 2

1 2 Cup Soup

This isn't your grandma's soup recipe! It's a flexible, adaptable method for creating a light and satisfying bowl of goodness using whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch, this recipe emphasizes fresh flavors and simple techniques. Customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and grains for endless delicious possibilities! Learn the art of improvisational cooking and discover a new favorite soup.

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Savory Main Dish Savory One Dish Meal

15 Minute Parmesan Pasta

Ready in just 15 minutes, this cheesy Parmesan pasta recipe is a weeknight lifesaver! Use your favorite pasta shape for a quick and satisfying meal that's perfect as a main course or a delicious side dish. This simple recipe, inspired by Kraft, is easily customizable to your taste.

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Time To Make Pasta 3 Steps Or Less Time To Make

2 Step Pasta Sensation

Ready in just 25 minutes! This incredibly quick and easy pasta recipe is bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but craving something delicious.

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30 Minutes Or Less Easy 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Almost As Simple Pasta With Parmesan Herbs And Fresh Garlic

This family-favorite pasta dish is unbelievably quick, easy, and adaptable! Customize the herbs to perfectly complement your main course. Using pantry staples, you'll create a delicious meal the whole family will devour. Reheats beautifully after refrigeration (freezing untested). Get dinner on the table in under 20 minutes!

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Main Ingredient Oven 60 Minutes Or Less Spanish

Amazing Roasted Shrimp With Garlic

Experience a taste of Bobby Flay-inspired culinary magic with this incredible roasted garlic shrimp recipe! Perfectly roasted shrimp with a rich, garlicky, and slightly spicy sauce. Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping or tossed over pasta with a squeeze of lemon for an unforgettable meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour!

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Seasonal Course Main Dish Vegetables

Angry Chicken

Spice up your life with this fiery yet flavorful Angry Chicken recipe! Inspired by a friend's hilarious recipe name, this dish delivers a surprising kick of Cajun spice that's surprisingly balanced and delicious. Don't be intimidated—the heat is manageable, leaving you with a creamy, cheesy sauce that perfectly complements juicy grilled chicken and earthy mushrooms. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for some flavor!

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Main Dish Main Dish 30 Minutes Or Less Chicken Breasts

Any Night Of The Week Chicken Pasta And Broccoli

This 30-minute one-pan chicken pasta and broccoli recipe is a weeknight dinner winner! Packed with flavor and using pantry staples, it's easily customizable to your spice preferences. Kids love it! Serve with crusty bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Course Occasion Chicken Time To Make

Baked Chicken Breasts With Garlic And Oregano

Impress your family with this flavorful and easy weeknight dinner! Juicy baked chicken breasts, infused with garlic and oregano, are perfectly complemented by steamed broccoli and garlicky pasta. This recipe is ready in under an hour and is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Search terms: baked chicken, garlic chicken, oregano chicken, weeknight dinner, easy chicken recipe, family dinner.

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Time To Make Preparation Time To Make Equipment

Baked Pasta Dish

Indulge in this comforting and cheesy Baked Pasta Dish! Perfectly baked layers of pasta, creamy sauce, and your favorite veggies create a mouthwatering masterpiece. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!

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Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Low In Something Casseroles

Baked Pasta With Mushroom Chicken Cream Sauce

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy baked pasta casserole! Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta are enveloped in a rich, homemade cream sauce, then baked to golden perfection. This comforting classic, adapted from a Woman's Day magazine recipe, is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of pure culinary bliss!

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Comfort Food Pasta Course Comfort Food

Baked Three Cheeses And Buttered Spirals

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Baked Three Cheese & Buttered Spiral Pasta! This comforting classic, inspired by an old Super Food Ideas magazine recipe, features tender pasta spirals tossed in melted butter, sauteed onions, and a heavenly blend of cream cheese, blue cheese, and cheddar. A quick bake melts the cheeses to perfection, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. Get ready to be amazed!

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Meat 3 Steps Or Less Free Of Something Main Ingredient

Balsamic Chicken Pasta

Transform leftover chicken and pasta into a vibrant and flavorful Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad! This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. The tangy balsamic vinaigrette adds a delicious zing, making it perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing dinner, or even a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights. Enjoy it warm or chilled – it's equally satisfying either way!

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Main Ingredient European Cuisine Course

Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta

Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta recipe! Inspired by a wealthy family's summer party staple, this dish comes together in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights or sophisticated gatherings. The sweet balsamic vinegar perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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One Dish Meal Time To Make Beef Dietary

Beef Goulash Low Sodium

This hearty and flavorful Beef Goulash is a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Adapted from an American Heart Association recipe, this low-sodium version is packed with rich beef, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked macaroni. Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that's both satisfying and delicious!

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Lunch Low In Something Healthy 2 Stove Top

Beef And Portobello Minestroganoff

Rachael Ray-inspired comfort food! This Beef and Portobello Minestrone-Stroganoff recipe is a hearty, flavorful twist on classic dishes. Tender beef, earthy portobello mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta mingle in a rich broth. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready for a delicious adventure in your kitchen!

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Dietary Low Calorie Dietary Potluck

Craze E Turkey Meatballs In Sauce

These incredibly easy and delicious turkey meatballs simmer in a rich, savory mushroom-tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or your next office potluck! Impress your taste buds with this quick and flavorful recipe – ready in under an hour!

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Southwestern United States Cuisine Pasta North American

Goulash

Whip up this easy and quick 30-minute Goulash for a delicious weeknight meal! Perfect for busy schedules, this recipe delivers hearty flavors with minimal prep time. Satisfy your cravings with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce.

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Preparation Pasta Main Dish Inexpensive

Tomato And Balsamic Pasta

Ready in 15 minutes! This quick and easy Tomato Balsamic Pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with fresh basil and sweet balsamic, it's a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Impress your tastebuds without spending hours in the kitchen!

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