Sometimes, life is all about the simple pleasures. The sound of rain on a tin roof. The smell of freshly cut grass. A warm bowl of gluten-free pasta, rich with tomato sauce and dusted with parmesan.
For many leading a gluten-free lifestyle, pasta was perhaps one of the toughest goodbyes. Those perfectly stranded noodles used to play the supporting role in many a comfort dish. But let’s admit it. Life without pasta isn’t much of a life at all.
And here comes the good news, my lovely readers. Believe it or not — you don’t have to kiss pasta dishes goodbye after all. With more gluten-free alternatives than ever, we not only have access to pasta, but a pretty impressive selection at that.
Join me, your trusty guide Claire Bennet, as I take you on a deeper dive into the world of gluten-free pasta. We’ll be exploring various types of noodles, their textures, flavors, and of course, the best ways to cook them.
Before we explore, remember that mastering the world of gluten-free cooking comes with understanding your ingredients. Take a moment to [revisit our previous blog post](#) about reading food labels. It helps ensure your pasta pick is entirely gluten-free.
Right, let’s set sail on our bowls of gluten-free pasta, shall we?
Quinoa Pasta: You guys know how much I rave about quinoa. By now, you know it’s a fantastic source of protein and fiber, and its pasta incarnation doesn’t disappoint. Quinoa pasta holds up well, even under the weight of heavier sauces, and its nutty flavor can add depth to your dishes. Although it takes a bit longer to cook than traditional pasta, the wait is worth every velvety bite.
Rice Pasta: This type of gluten-free pasta has been a strong favorite amongst celiac warriors for quite some time. While it does necessitate a keen eye during the cooking process to avoid ending up with a pot of mush, it boasts a fantastic ability to pair well with practically any accompaniment. Remember to rinse it under cold water post boiling to prevent any sticky situation!
Corn Pasta: A savior for any corn tortilla fan, corn pasta releases sweet notes that sit well within tangy tomato-based sauces. Its rustic yellow color and strong texture can truly switch up your pasta night. But bear in mind, like our friend the rice pasta, overcooking can break down its structure.
Now, let’s talk cooking. Preparing gluten-free pasta requires a slightly different approach than wheat-based kinds. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your gluten-free pasta range:
– Use plenty of water: Making sure your pasta has a lot of room to swim helps to avoid clumping or sticking.
– Stir occasionally: An occasional stir throughout the cooking process will keep everything moving and can also prevent sticking.
– Taste test: Most importantly, always taste your pasta before draining it. Gluten-free pasta often has a different cooking time than what’s mentioned on the packet.
– Rinse it: Once drained, do give most types of gluten-free pasta a quick rinse under warm water. This removes excess starch and prevents it turning into a mega gluten-free pasta blob (True story!).
With that, your homey pasta bowl is back on the menu, complete with any sauce your heart craves.
Why not pull that pesto jar out from the back of the fridge or whip up a delightful tomato sauce with oodles of garlic? I’ve been known to love a good pumpkin cream sauce, especially during these cool autumn months.
We previously discussed how to make [the perfect gluten-free béchamel sauce](#), which you can spice up with a dash of nutmeg and some strong cheddar for a classic Mac and Cheese.
From Fusilli to Penne, Spaghetti to Elbows… your pasta options are many and endlessly delicious.
The world of gluten-free certainly doesn’t have to be restrictive. By embracing and understanding these new ingredients we offer our palate a delightful dish of diversity and delight. With an increasing number of grocery stores stocking gluten-free pasta, and a handful of brands specializing in such products, life has certainly become a tad easier for us gluten-free aficionados.
Listen, at the end of the day, stomach grumbles happen and a comforting, wholesome, completely tantalizing bowl of pasta is often what the taste buds ordered. Don’t ever feel you have to miss out.
As we continue this gluten-free journey together, remember that it’s okay to ask questions and explore new things. It’s okay to feel unsure about new ingredients or cooking techniques. That’s how we learn, grow, and become gluten-free gourmands.
Welcome back, my pasta-loving friends, to the table where comfort resides. Let’s twirl our forks, make a delicious mess, and share laughter around the table, over a humble bowl of pasta.
**Category: Baking & Cooking Science**
