The Art of Pasta: Italy’s Iconic Dish and Where to Find the Best in Canggu
2025-06-26 21:23
Pasta is more than just food — it's a global culinary icon. From classic spaghetti to creamy fettuccine, pasta has captured hearts and appetites for centuries. Rooted in Italian tradition and celebrated around the world, this versatile staple continues to evolve, offering endless combinations of flavors, textures, and experiences.
What Is Pasta?
Pasta is typically made from durum wheat semolina mixed with water or eggs, kneaded into a dough, then shaped and boiled or baked. While traditional recipes stick to wheat, modern variations include gluten-free and plant-based options, using ingredients like rice flour, chickpeas, or lentils — perfect for all dietary needs.
Some pasta doughs are enhanced with spinach, tomato, squid ink, or herbs, adding both flavor and color to the plate.
A Brief History
Pasta’s history dates back over 2,000 years. Ancient Etruscans were making pasta-like dishes as early as 400 BCE. By the Middle Ages, pasta had become a staple in Italian kitchens. The word “pasta” itself has roots in Latin and Greek and entered the English language in the 1800s.
Pasta Types and Shapes
Italy is home to over 310 unique pasta shapes, with more than 1,300 regional names. Each shape serves a purpose, designed to pair with specific sauces for the ultimate texture and flavor. Some of the most beloved types include:
Spaghetti – Best with tomato-based sauces and meatballs
Fettuccine – Perfect for creamy or chunky sauces
Penne – Tube-shaped, ideal for holding thick sauces
Lasagna – Flat sheets, layered with sauces and cheese
Ravioli – Stuffed pasta pillows with endless filling options
Fusilli & Rotini – Spiral-shaped, great for catching thick sauces or tossing in salads
Each region in Italy has its own signature pasta. In Liguria, it’s trofie with pesto; in Naples, it’s ziti; in Abruzzo, spaghetti alla chitarra.
How Pasta Is Served
From a simple garlic-and-oil aglio e olio to a rich and meaty ragù, pasta’s pairing possibilities are endless. It can be served:
Pasta asciutta (dry with sauce)
Pasta in brodo (in soup)
Pasta al forno (baked, like lasagna or ziti)
Top pasta dishes loved worldwide include Carbonara, Bolognese, Alfredo, Pesto, and Lasagna — each offering its own depth of flavor and comfort.
Nutritional Value
Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates and plant-based protein, especially when whole-grain or legume-based. It’s low in fat and can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy oils.
Fun Pasta Facts
Properly cooked pasta should be “al dente” – firm to the bite.
The shape of pasta is designed to enhance sauce retention.
Pasta can be served hot or cold, making it a year-round favorite.
Craving Pasta in Bali? Try the Best in Canggu at Teamo Gastro & Bistro
If you’re searching for authentic, mouthwatering pasta in Bali, look no further than Teamo Gastro & Bistro in Canggu. At Teamo, we bring the heart of Italian cuisine to the vibrant streets of Canggu with fresh ingredients, homemade sauces, and a curated pasta menu that blends tradition with modern creativity.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Spaghetti Bolognese, a creamy Truffle Fettuccine, or our signature Seafood Pappardelle, every dish is crafted with passion and precision.