Delicious Pasta: Finding the Best Boxed Options
Pasta is a kitchen staple—affordable, versatile, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re craving mac and cheese, throwing together a pasta salad for a gathering, or sharing a romantic dinner, pasta is always a great choice. But with so many options on the shelves, which boxed pasta should you choose? We turned to professional chefs for their top picks.
What Chefs Look For in Pasta
When selecting pasta, chefs consider the recipe and the dining experience. If the pasta is the star, like in a simple dish with minimal sauce, investing in quality is essential. Here are key features they suggest for choosing the best boxed pasta:
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Ingredients | Look for 100% durum wheat semolina for optimal texture and flavor. |
| Variety of Shapes | Classic shapes like pappardelle and rigatoni are versatile, while unique shapes add texture and fun. |
| Proper Packaging | Quality packaging prevents breakage and gives a rustic appeal, resembling a shop in Italy. |
Top Picks for Store-Bought Pasta
Our panel of chefs voted on their favorite boxed pasta brands, and here’s what they found:
1. Sfoglini
- Description: This brand is perfect for those seeking a hint of elegance. Known for its unique shapes like campanelle and fusilli, which are designed to hold sauces beautifully.
- Price: Approximately $6 per pound.
- Why Chefs Love It: High quality, excellent texture, and a great choice for making simple sauces special.
2. Rustichella d’Abruzzo
- Description: Luxurious packaging that looks imported, this pasta is slow-dried and bronze-cut, providing a delightful bite.
- Price: Around $9 per pound.
- Why Chefs Love It: “Reminds me of my mom” by delivering authentic Italian flavors.
3. Barilla
- Description: A reliable everyday option, Barilla pasta cooks perfectly al dente.
- Price: About $2-3 per pound.
- Why Chefs Love It: Consistent texture and quality, perfect for daily cooking.
Other Brands to Explore
If you can’t find Sfoglini or other favorites, consider trying:
- De Cecco: Known for its rustic texture and strong flavor.
- Giadzy: Giada De Laurentiis’ brand offers thoughtfully sourced ingredients and beautiful shapes.
- Rao’s: Excellent quality synonymous with a legendary NYC restaurant.
Pasta Sauce Pairing Guide
When selecting pasta, consider the sauce first:
| Sauce Type | Recommended Pasta Shapes |
|---|---|
| Hearty Sauces (e.g., Bolognese) | Rigatoni, Pappardelle |
| Medium Sauces (e.g., Carbonara) | Spaghetti, Bucatini |
| Light Sauces (e.g., Olive Oil) | Tender shapes like Angel Hair |
Final Thoughts
For a simple yet exquisite dish, toss high-quality pasta with a thin sauce that highlights its texture. Whether you opt for fresh or dried pasta, remember that sometimes less is more. Enjoy experimenting with different brands and shapes to discover your perfect pasta dish!
Happy Cooking! 🍝