Ziti

This pantry staple is ready to dive into your saucy creations or bake away blissfully in the oven.

The Flavor Experience
Ziti doesn't steal the spotlight. Instead, it shines alongside bold sauces and cheesy fillings. Its hollow tubes effectively capture these sauces, delivering a delightful combination in every bite.

The Story
Ziti's origins trace back to Southern Italy, particularly Sicily. While an exact date is elusive, its close resemblance to other hollow pastas suggests a long history. Ziti's name likely comes from the Sicilian word "zita," meaning "bride," possibly due to its resemblance to decorative trims or tassels.

Usage Tips
Ziti's versatility has propelled it to popularity across the globe. It excels in various dishes, from the quintessentially American baked ziti, a casserole layered with tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese, to vibrant pasta primavera where ziti readily absorbs the light flavors of vegetables and herbs.

For the perfect ziti, cook it al dente according to package instructions for a satisfying bite. Whether you break or cut your ziti depends on the dish. Broken or cut ziti works well in casseroles and salads, while whole tubes are ideal for dishes where you want to capture sauce inside the pasta. Finally, remember to skip rinsing cooked ziti unless you plan to serve it cold. Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce adhere to the pasta for the most flavorful results.

Quick Facts
Country of Origin: USA
Unit Size: 16 oz (454 g)