
penne
Penne are a staple of Italian cuisine—short tubes with diagonally cut ends, whose name ( penna , feather) describes their shape. The ridged surface is created by pressing through bronze dies and ensures that sauce clings to the pasta instead of beading up.
The hollow center fills with liquid during cooking and releases sauce when chewed—ideal for creamy, rich sauces. All'Arrabbiata with garlic and chili pepper, a broccoli and anchovy combination, or a simple cream and cheese sauce work better with these pasta shapes than with long pasta. Cooking time: 10–12 minutes in salted water; drain when al dente.
For pasta salad: choose toppings of a similar size — cherry tomatoes, olives, diced mozzarella. Wine pairing depends on the sauce: a chilled Montepulciano d'Abruzzo with Arrabbiata, a dry Vermentino with creamier versions.


