Pasta is one of the most beloved dishes in Italy and it is a staple in Italian cuisine. Italians take their pasta very seriously and they have developed their own unique way of serving and eating it. Here are some tips on how to serve and eat pasta like a true Italian.
Choose the Right Pasta Shape
Italians decide the shape of the pasta based on the sauce that will be served with it. For example, long and thin pasta shapes like spaghetti and linguine are usually served with light tomato or seafood sauces, while short and sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni and penne are used with heavier, creamier sauces.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente
The most important rule in cooking pasta is to cook it al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It means that the pasta should be cooked until it is firm but not hard. To achieve this, cook the pasta for a minute or two less than the recommended cooking time on the package. This will give the pasta a firm texture and it will hold the sauce better.
Use the Right Amount of Sauce
Italians believe that the sauce should not overpower the pasta, but rather complement it. The amount of sauce used should be just enough to coat the pasta evenly. In Italy, it is common to serve pasta with just a little bit of sauce and let the pasta speak for itself.
Don’t Mix Cheese with Seafood Pasta
Italians never mix cheese with seafood pasta dishes. It is considered a culinary sin to do so. The combination of cheese and seafood is just not done in Italy. So, if you are ordering a seafood pasta dish in Italy, do not ask for cheese.
Use a Fork and Spoon to Eat Pasta
Italians never use a knife to eat pasta. They use a fork and a spoon. The fork is used to twirl the pasta and the spoon is used to scoop up the sauce. This technique allows the pasta to be coated evenly with the sauce and it also helps to prevent the sauce from splashing onto your clothes.
Don’t Cut Spaghetti
Italians never cut their spaghetti. They twirl it around the fork and enjoy it in one long strand. Cutting spaghetti is considered a big no-no in Italy. If you are having trouble twirling the spaghetti, you can use a spoon to help.
Use Bread to enjoy leftover sauces
Italians never waste any sauce on their plates. They use a piece of bread to clean the plate of any remaining sauce. This is called “fare la scarpetta” which means “to make a little shoe”. It is a sign of appreciation for the cook and a way to savour every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Serving and eating pasta like a true Italian is all about attention to detail and respect for tradition. Choosing the right pasta shape, cooking it al dente, using the right amount of sauce, and eating it with a fork and spoon are all important steps in enjoying a delicious bowl of pasta. Remember to never mix cheese with seafood pasta, don’t cut your spaghetti, and use a piece of bread to clean your plate.
The next time you order pasta online, choose authentic stores like Sorrentina–Honestly Italian. They serve a variety of artisanal pasta that will help you cook up a restaurant-style meal at home. Buy pasta online from Sorrentina and pair it with any of their in-house dips and sauces to cook a meal in just minutes. Just the ideal way to unwind after a long day. Order Italian pasta online from Sorrentina and introduce your loved ones to enjoy a pasta dish the Italian way.
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