What is the pasta shape Trofie?

Trofie is a traditional pasta shape from the Liguria region of Italy, particularly associated with the city of Genoa. Here’s a bit more about it:

• Shape: Trofie are short, twisted pasta pieces, typically about 1 to 2 inches long. They have a distinctive spiral or corkscrew shape, which is created by rolling small strips of dough by hand. The twisting shape helps them hold onto sauces effectively.

• Texture: The texture of trofie is somewhat rough due to the hand-rolled method, which helps sauces cling to the pasta.

• Common Uses: Trofie are famously paired with pesto alla genovese, a basil-based sauce with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The shape works particularly well with this sauce because the spirals capture the pesto, making each bite flavorful. Trofie can also be served with other types of sauces, including creamy or tomato-based ones, or even in soups.

• Preparation: Traditionally, trofie are made by hand, which gives them their unique, irregular shape. They can also be found commercially, made with more uniform shapes.

If you try cooking with trofie, you'll likely enjoy how well it holds onto sauces and its unique, satisfying texture!

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