The Ultimate Guide to Gluten Free Pasta (Everything you need to know about it)
The Ultimate Guide To Gluten Free Pasta (Everything You Need To Know About It)
Pasta is known as a classic comfort food. From lasagna to alfredo, spaghetti, and everything in between, there’s a recipe for every occasion, and they’re a weekly staple in many households. However, pasta made out of wheat isn’t always a great option for those with gluten intolerances. This means that more often than not, those who are gluten-free have to refrain from eating some of their foods. So, not wanting anyone to miss out on the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine, we at DeLallo decided to change that with the introduction of our gluten-free pasta! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about gluten-free pasta.
What is gluten free pasta?
Coming in all the classic pasta shapes and sizes you love, gluten-free pasta noodles are those that have been made without wheat or any other gluten-containing ingredients by replacing them with corn, rice, and even potato flour. As a result, it maintains a taste and texture nearly identical to the past you know and love while being suitable for those with gluten intolerances!
Our pasta comes in a wide variety of options including gnocchi, lasagna, penne, fusilli, orzo, and spaghetti noodles. Apart from the gnocchi, which is made out of potato and rice flours, each shape is made out of a corn and rice blend or just whole grain rice to meet all your dietary needs.
Types of gluten free pasta (what is it made of?)
There's a whole range of different ingredient options out there from corn to rice and chickpeas to lentils, but we offer 2 specific types. Both our Corn and Rice grains and Whole Grain Brown Rice grains are expertly selected and specially milled to ensure a full-flavored pasta with a texture similar to that of traditional pasta.
Corn and rice
This certified gluten-free pasta is made with a blend of non-GMO corn (70%) and rice (30%). Our corn and rice pasta is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility with no risk of cross-contamination.
Whole grain brown rice
This pasta is also certified gluten-free pasta but made with 100% non-GMO whole-grain brown rice flour. This pasta is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility with no risk of cross-contamination.
The Best Gluten Free Pasta - The Delallo Difference
At DeLallo, we understand that whether you're celiac or choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, you shouldn't have to sacrifice the quality and texture of your pasta. That's why we've poured our hearts into creating a gluten-free pasta that stands up to any traditional pasta experience. Made with the finest ingredients, our pasta boasts a superb taste and an authentic al dente texture that will leave you amazed that it's actually gluten-free!
What makes DeLallo's Gluten-Free Pasta stand out? It all starts with our expertly selected grains and rice flour. Each batch is expertly milled and blended to mimic the flavor and functionality of traditional wheat pasta, ensuring that you can enjoy all your favorite dishes with a new gluten-free twist.
Reasons to Eat Gluten-Free Pasta
From food allergies to gluten intolerances, lifestyle choices, and more, there are plenty of reasons why you might consider eating gluten-free. If you’ve been considering making the switch or are just curious as to why it might be beneficial, take a look at the three most common reasons below.
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Allergies - Although not inherently unhealthy, gluten cannot be properly digested by those who have been diagnosed with Celiac disease. For these people, the consumption of gluten triggers an immune response in the small intestine which can negatively impact the lining of their small intestine and prevent the proper absorption of nutrients which leads to gastric distress.
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Intolerances - Less severe than a gluten allergy, those who suffer from gluten intolerances often become bloated and experience belly pain after eating gluten-containing foods such as regular pasta.
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Lifestyle Choices - For others, the decision to go gluten-free could be due to lifestyle choices rather than allergies or intolerances in which case one would decrease the amount of gluten consumed based on personal preferences rather than dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Pasta Recipes:
Tips and tricks to cooking gluten-free pasta
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Make sure you’re using a LARGE pot. There will be foam, but that’s normal!
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Always add salt, never oil.
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Once the pasta is in the boiling pot of water, be sure to give it a good stir. Then, keep stirring every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick together. You heard us! Stir, and stir some more.
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Cook time varies depending on the type of gluten-free pasta you are cooking; rice, corn, or legume. Be sure to check the pasta (taste and color) after about 6 minutes. Some pastas cook in less than 6 minutes while others take more than 10 minutes. For instance, chickpea pasta cooks in about 7 minutes (al dente) while brown rice pasta takes a little longer due to the whole grain. Regardless, you want the gluten-free pasta to be cooked thoroughly but not be too soft or spongy. The last thing you want is goopy pasta which gives gluten-free pasta a bad rap.
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Just like regular noodles, you’ll want to drain the pasta, never rinse. Unless the instructions specify to do so. This is common when cooking quinoa pasta due to its distinct flavor or residue.
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Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup to 1 cup of the cooking water. Gluten-free pasta does absorb the liquid and dry out quite fast if it is not used in a sauce right away. To prevent it from drying out, we like to add part of the cooking water back to the pot with the drained pasta. This helps loosen it and break up any clumps of pasta before adding the sauce.
Gluten Free Pasta: FAQ
Is all DeLallo gluten-free pasta produced in a gluten-free facility?
Yes, all of our gluten-free pasta is produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility. This means that from start to finish, our pasta is handled in an environment free from any gluten-containing ingredients, ensuring safety and peace of mind for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Is all DeLallo gluten free pasta certified gluten-free?
Yes, all of our gluten-free pasta options are certified gluten-free.
Does gluten-free pasta cook the same as regular pasta?
As with regular pasta, gluten-free noodles should be cooked according to package instructions, and the process is very similar no matter which type you choose. However, there are just a few tips you’ll want to be aware of before you start cooking based on the type of noodles you choose.
Does gluten-free pasta taste different than traditional pasta?
Yes, there's a bit of a taste twist when you swap traditional pasta for gluten-free versions! Regular pasta, made from wheat, has a distinct taste and texture often described as chewy and firm. On the flip side, gluten-free pasta, which might be made from corn and rice, whole-grain brown rice, or other gluten-free grains, brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table. People often notice that gluten-free pasta can have a slightly different mouthfeel—some find it a bit softer or more delicate, while others might detect a subtle graininess depending on the ingredients used.
Is gluten-free pasta healthier?
As mentioned above, while it is a better option for those with wheat intolerances, gluten-free pasta is not necessarily any more or less healthy than other pasta types. In fact, the nutrient profiles remain very similar! The only thing that changes is the ingredient list.
What is the difference between gluten-free pasta and regular pasta?
The main difference lies in the ingredients. Regular pasta is typically made from wheat flour, which contains gluten. Gluten is a protein that gives dough its elasticity and helps it stretch and trap air, which is why regular pasta has a distinct chewy texture.
On the other hand, gluten-free pasta is made from alternative grains or legumes such as rice, corn, quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas, which do not contain gluten. People often choose gluten-free pasta if they have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or are simply trying to cut down on gluten in their diet.