Dried pasta

Dried pasta is a staple food made from durum wheat semolina and water, or sometimes other flours. The dough is extruded into various shapes and then dried to remove moisture, which preserves it for storage. This process results in a firm texture that holds its shape well during cooking.

Dried pasta is primarily used as a carbohydrate base in a wide variety of savoury dishes, from simple pasta salads to complex baked casseroles. Its neutral flavour allows it to absorb sauces and complement other ingredients effectively. It is a versatile ingredient found in numerous packaged meals, including ready-to-eat pasta dishes and meal kits.

Dried pasta is a source of complex carbohydrates and fibre. Wholewheat varieties offer more fibre and nutrients. The UK's Eatwell Guide recommends that starchy carbohydrates form the basis of most meals. While not an additive, pasta is a common component of foods that may be high in fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS). Restrictions on the placement and promotion of HFSS foods in-store and online apply in the UK.