A Pasta-tively Perfect Guide to Fresh Pasta in Chicago
Craving Carbs, Chicago Style
Alright, pasta lovers, let's talk about the real deal: fresh pasta. We're not talking about that dry, lifeless stuff you find in boxes. No, no, no. We're talking about the kind of pasta that practically sings with flavor and texture. The kind that makes you question your life choices for ever eating dried pasta. So, where can you find this culinary gold in the Windy City? Let's dive in.
Your Local Italian Grandma's Kitchen (Just Kidding)
While we all wish we had an Italian grandma whipping up fresh pasta daily, reality check: most of us don't. But fear not, Chicago has some serious pasta game.
Pasta Fresh: The OG of Fresh Pasta
If there's a pasta hall of fame, Pasta Fresh is definitely in it. These guys have been slinging fresh pasta since '89, which is basically ancient in internet years. Their pasta is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Plus, they've got a killer selection of sauces and ready-made pasta dishes. It's basically a one-stop shop for pasta perfection.
Gemma Foods: For the Pasta Connoisseur
Gemma Foods is like the chic, boutique version of a pasta shop. Their selection is more curated, with a focus on high-quality ingredients. It's the place to go if you want to impress your pasta-loving friends (or yourself).
Tortello: Handmade Heaven
Tortello takes fresh pasta to a whole new level. Their pasta is handmade in-house, and you can actually watch the pasta-making magic happen. Plus, they offer pasta classes if you're feeling ambitious.
Beyond the Obvious
While these places are fantastic, don't be afraid to explore. Many Italian markets and delis carry fresh pasta. And if you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at making your own. It's actually easier than you think, and the satisfaction is immeasurable.
How to Make the Most of Your Fresh Pasta Purchase
- How to store fresh pasta? Ideally, fresh pasta should be cooked within a day or two of purchase. If you need to store it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days.
- How to cook fresh pasta? Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta. Usually, 2-3 minutes is enough. Be careful not to overcook it!
- How to reheat leftover pasta? To reheat leftover pasta, toss it with a little bit of olive oil and heat it up in a skillet over medium heat.
- How to freeze fresh pasta? To freeze fresh pasta, lay it out flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container.
- How to prevent pasta from sticking? To prevent pasta from sticking, make sure there's enough water in the pot, and stir it occasionally while it cooks.
So there you have it, a pasta lover's guide to Chicago. Now go forth and indulge!