Farfalle

Farfalle, commonly known as 'bow-tie pasta,' is a type of pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces and is often used in pasta salads. It is not seasonally dependent as it is a dried pasta, but it can be made fresh. Farfalle is a staple in Italian cuisine and is versatile in its culinary uses, from being the star in a pasta dish to playing a supporting role in soups and stews.

Farfalle Synonyms

Bow-tie pasta
butterfly pasta
strichetti
farfalloni
farfalline

Different Forms/Types of Farfalle

Dried

Farfalle pasta in its most common form, dried and ready to be boiled. Ideal for longer storage and convenient use.

Fresh

Fresh farfalle pasta can be found in some specialty stores or made at home, offering a tender texture and shorter cooking time.

How to Choose Farfalle

When choosing dried farfalle, look for pasta that has a rough texture as this will help sauces cling to the pasta better. The pasta should be uniform in color with no signs of discoloration. If opting for fresh farfalle, ensure it has a consistent, vibrant color and a firm texture. It should not be sticky or overly soft.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Farfalle

Farfalle, often known as 'bow-tie pasta,' is versatile and holds onto sauces well due to its shape. To achieve the perfect 'al dente' texture, boil farfalle in a large pot of salted water for about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the brand and your texture preference. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste the pasta a minute or two before the lower end of the recommended cooking range to ensure it doesn't get overcooked. Drain the farfalle but reserve some pasta water, which can be used to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Shelf Life of Farfalle

Dried farfalle should be stored in a cool, dry place in its original packaging or an airtight container to protect it from moisture and pests. It can last for up to two years when stored properly. Fresh farfalle, on the other hand, should be used within a couple of days of purchase and stored in the refrigerator. If you have made farfalle at home, it can be frozen for up to one month for best quality.

Recommended Brands for Farfalle

dried farfalle: De Cecco

fresh farfalle: RP's Pasta Company

Cooking Techniques for Farfalle

Baking: Farfalle can also be used in baked pasta dishes. After boiling, mix it with your sauce and other ingredients, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden on top.

Boiling: The standard method for cooking farfalle is boiling. Use plenty of water to allow the pasta to move freely, and don't forget to season the water with salt to enhance the pasta's flavor.

Tossing in Sauce: After boiling, farfalle should be tossed in the sauce to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This can be done in a pan over low heat to help the pasta absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Popular Farfalle Recipes

Farfalle with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Pasta Primavera with Farfalle
Farfalle Salad with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Farfalle Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 1.5 g
fiber: 3 g
sugar: 2.5 g
protein: 12.5 g
calories: 359 kcal
carbohydrates: 71.5 g

Flavor Combinations

Farfalle pairs well with light and creamy sauces, fresh vegetables like peas and cherry tomatoes, and proteins such as chicken and shrimp. It's also great with pesto or a simple garlic and olive oil dressing. Cheeses like Parmesan and ricotta complement farfalle, as do fresh herbs like basil and parsley.

Allergen Information

Farfalle is made from wheat and contains gluten, which is a common allergen. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should opt for gluten-free pasta alternatives made from rice, corn, or legumes.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Farfalle

Pasta with Prosciutto, Peas, and Cream

Quick Farfalle with Olive Tapenade