The pasta aisle might just be one of the most confusing sections of the supermarket. We’ve all been there, standing in our local Woolworths looking like a stunned mullet trying to figure out which pasta is the right one — is it the cheap one, or the fancy pale-looking one?
Italian Street Kitchen chefs (and twin brothers) Enrico and Giulio Marchese have restaurants around the country and want Aussies to be able to experience some of the “true magic of authentic Italian” at home. They told Yahoo Lifestyle what ingredients and brands shoppers should be on the lookout for in the supermarket aisles.
Firstly, they said not to choose a “bright or artificial” yellow pasta.
“The colour should be a pale, warm yellow,” the Marchese brothers said.
RELATED:
Another thing to look for is products “made with 100 per cent durum wheat semolina”.
“That’s what gives it that beautiful golden hue and firm texture,” the twins said.
What is the best supermarket pasta?
Most of us might lean toward the aisles for a pasta buy, but the chefs said that isn’t the best option.
They recommend heading to the refrigerated section for your best quality.
“It’s usually fresher and with a more delicate bite, especially for filled pasta like tortellini or ravioli,” they said.
Twins Enrico and Giulio Marchese are chefs at Italian Street Kitchen. Picture: Italian Street Kitchen
This could be Latina Fresh’s Veal Tortellini, which is currently on special for $5.50 at Woolworths.
The pack normally retails for $11, which is the same price at Coles.
Fridge might be better for flavour but that doesn’t mean there aren’t decent offerings in the aisles.
Dried pasta does have a longer shelf life and is often cheaper for more budget-conscious shoppers.
“We go for brands like La Molisana — their rigatoni is pretty good,” the Marchese brothers said.
Currently, La Molisana’s rigatoni is on special for just $2.80 at Woolworths.
The chefs said the fridge section is the best spot for pasta, but if you’re looking for a dried pasta La Molisana was their pick. Picture: Yahoo Lifestyle Australia
La Molisana’s rigatoni is currently on special for just $2.80 at Woolworths. Photo: Woolworths
The normal retail price is $3.50 so not that much more.
Although Coles has previously sold the brand, it no longer appears to be available.
You can also buy La Molisana at places like Harris Farm and independent grocers.
SHOP:
This Yahoo Lifestyle writer is currently feeling very smug, because that is my go-to pasta as well.
I find that cooking with this rigatoni ups the quality of my pasta dishes, and I personally think it tastes the best.
I also appreciate the fact it has a rough surface, which helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
Enrico and Giulio are chefs at the popular Italian Street Kitchen, and they have shared their expertise with those of us who are less talented in the kitchen. Photo: Italian Street Kitchen
One thing Italian chefs would never buy from the supermarket
While Enrico and Giulio would normally hand make pasta, like their Nonna, they understand the average punter might not have the time, or technique.
But, there’s one thing they would never buy from their local supermarket — sauce.
“A good tomato sauce takes very few cheap ingredients: garlic, olive oil, seasoning and real Italian whole peeled tinned tomatoes,” they said.
“You can taste the difference in every bite.
“Buying shop-bought is a waste of money, and it’s not fair to your taste buds.
“You deserve only the best.”
Want the latest lifestyle and entertainment news? Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Dining and Cooking