Penne

Penne

Close-up of penne lisce

Penne is a type of pasta with cylinder-shaped pieces. It is one of the most popular pasta types in Italy and is widely used in various cuisines around the world. The name "penne" is derived from the Italian word for "quills" or "feathers," referring to the pointed, angled ends of the pasta.

History

Penne was first created in the Liguria region of Italy in the mid-19th century. The pasta's unique shape was designed to hold sauces well, making it a versatile choice for many dishes. The angled ends of penne are reminiscent of a quill pen, which is how it got its name.

Varieties

There are two main types of penne:

• Penne rigate: This variety has ridges on the surface, which help to hold thicker sauces better.
• Penne lisce: This is a smooth version of penne, without ridges, and is often used in lighter dishes.

Barilla brand penne rigate

Culinary Uses

Penne is a versatile pasta that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in baked pasta dishes, such as pasta al forno, and is also popular in pasta salads. Penne pairs well with both tomato sauce and cream sauces, making it a staple in many Italian recipes.

Cooking Techniques

Penne is typically cooked in boiling water until it reaches an "al dente" texture, meaning it is firm to the bite. The cooking time can vary depending on the type of penne and the brand, but it usually takes about 10-12 minutes.

Related Pages

• Pasta
• Italian cuisine
• Tomato sauce
• Cream sauce