Pasta|Grain Product | Vegetarian High Carb

Wheat Penne

Triticum aestivum Allergens: Wheat|Gluten
Wheat Penne

Sourcing & Taxonomy

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

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Short, cylinder-shaped pasta with angled ends, made from durum wheat, popular for holding thick sauces and in baked dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteNeutral, Starchy
TextureFirm (al dente), Chewy, Smooth
AromaMild, Grainy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 56g (2 oz dry)
Calories350 kcal
Total Fat1.5g
Saturated Fat0.3g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein12g
Total Carbohydrate70g
Dietary Fiber3g
Total Sugars3g
Calcium20mg
Iron2mg
Potassium200mg

Chef’s Secret

Always cook penne (and all pasta) in generously salted boiling water to season it from the inside out, and reserve some pasta water to emulsify sauces.

Substitutions

Best Match

Ziti Pasta

1:1

Similar tube shape, slightly longer, but very close in culinary use and texture.

Rigatoni

1:1

Wider tubes with ridges, excellent for holding chunky sauces, slightly heartier bite.

Macaroni

1:1

Smaller curved tubes, works well in baked dishes or with lighter sauces.

Gluten-Free Penne

1:1

For gluten-sensitive diets, similar shape and function but different texture.

Buying Guide

Look for pasta made from 100% durum wheat semolina for best al dente texture.

Flavor Pairings

Marinara Sauce|Arrabbiata|Pesto|Creamy Sauces|Baked Pasta Dishes

Recipes Using Wheat Penne

Baked Pasta With Butternut Squash And Ricotta image 174
4 Hours Or Less One Dish Meal Pasta Savory

Baked Pasta With Butternut Squash And Ricotta

Indulge in this hearty and elegant baked pasta casserole! Creamy ricotta, roasted butternut squash, and crunchy walnuts perfectly complement whole wheat penne in a cheesy, comforting dish. A Weight Watchers-approved recipe (5 points!), perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Bell Pepper Cream Cheese Pasta image 134
Easy Preparation Weeknight Vegetarian

Bell Pepper Cream Cheese Pasta

This quick and easy pasta recipe puts a delicious spin on a German chef's classic! Inspired by Tim Mälzer's carrot-based dish, we've swapped in vibrant bell peppers for a colorful and healthy twist. Ready in just 20 minutes, this creamy, subtly spiced pasta is perfect for a weeknight meal. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables and spices to make it your own!

See Complete Recipe