Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti Pasta stands as an iconic staple in kitchens worldwide. Originating from Italy’s rich culinary tradition, this pasta has earned its place as a go-to choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Barilla’s spaghetti is made with non-GMO ingredients and consistently delivers the perfect al dente texture that Italian pasta is renowned for.
The familiar blue box has become synonymous with quality and reliability, offering a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in homes across the globe. Spaghetti, derived from the Italian word “spaghi” meaning “lengths of cord,” is versatile enough to pair with a wide range of sauces and ingredients. From simple tomato-based sauces to more complex seafood or vegetable combinations, Barilla spaghetti provides the ideal canvas for countless delicious meals.
Brand Overview
Barilla is an iconic Italian pasta brand with over 145 years of history. The company’s Classic Blue Box line has become synonymous with quality pasta in Italy and beyond.
Barilla offers more than 35 shapes of pasta in their signature blue packaging. This variety allows customers to express different sentiments through their pasta choices, from “I love you” to “I miss you” or even “Sorry.”
The blue box has come to represent consistently high-quality pasta that cooks perfectly al dente. Barilla uses non-GMO ingredients and 100% selected Italian wheat grains in their products.
Spaghetti is Barilla’s most popular pasta shape in Italy. The name derives from the Italian word “spaghi,” meaning “lengths of cord.” It pairs well with tomato sauces, fresh vegetables, and fish dishes.
Barilla emphasizes simplicity and nutritional balance in their Classic Blue Box line. The company’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional pasta-making techniques has made it a trusted brand for home cooks and pasta enthusiasts worldwide.
Product Specifications
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti is a staple pasta product known for its quality and consistency. The spaghetti is made from carefully selected premium durum wheat semolina.
Each box contains 1 pound (454 grams) of pasta. The spaghetti noodles are long and thin, measuring approximately 10 inches in length.
Cooking time for al dente texture is 9 minutes, while a more tender bite requires 10-11 minutes. The pasta is designed to hold its shape and texture when cooked properly.
Barilla uses non-GMO ingredients in their Classic Blue Box Spaghetti. The product is enriched with vitamins and minerals for added nutritional value.
Nutritional information (per 2 oz serving):
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 7g
The spaghetti has a shelf life of approximately 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place. It should be kept in an airtight container after opening.
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti is versatile and pairs well with various sauces, from traditional tomato-based recipes to olive oil and garlic preparations.
Health and Nutrition
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti Pasta offers a balance of essential nutrients while being a low-fat food option. It provides complex carbohydrates, protein, and various vitamins and minerals to support a healthy diet.
Nutritional Value
Barilla Spaghetti is made from semolina, a high-quality durum wheat flour. This pasta contains no cholesterol and is low in sodium. It’s a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy throughout the day.
The pasta also contains moderate amounts of protein, with about 7 grams per serving. This contributes to muscle maintenance and overall body function.
B vitamins, particularly thiamin and folate, are present in significant amounts. These vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism and cell function.
Caloric Information
A standard 2-ounce (56g) serving of dry Barilla Spaghetti contains approximately 200 calories. This serving size expands to about 1 cup when cooked.
The calorie distribution is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 42g (168 calories)
- Protein: 7g (28 calories)
- Fat: <1g (4 calories)
This macronutrient profile makes Barilla Spaghetti a suitable base for balanced meals. It can be paired with vegetables and lean proteins to create nutritious, satisfying dishes without excessive calorie intake.
Cooking Instructions
Properly cooking Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti ensures a delicious meal. The key lies in achieving the ideal texture and following specific boiling techniques.
Achieving Al Dente
Al dente pasta has a firm texture when bitten, providing a satisfying chew. To reach this ideal consistency with Barilla spaghetti, pay close attention to cooking time and water temperature.
Start by bringing water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Stir the spaghetti occasionally during cooking to promote uniform heat distribution. As the pasta nears completion, test a strand every 30 seconds by biting into it.
Al dente pasta should have a slight resistance at the center. Remove from heat when there’s still a faint white dot visible in the pasta’s cross-section.
Boiling Techniques
Use 4-6 quarts of water per pound of Barilla spaghetti. This ample water volume prevents sticking and allows for proper pasta expansion.
Add salt to the boiling water before introducing the pasta. Aim for 1-2 tablespoons per pound of spaghetti to enhance flavor.
Avoid adding oil to the water, as it can prevent sauce from adhering to the cooked pasta.
Once the spaghetti is added, stir gently to submerge all strands. Maintain a steady boil throughout cooking.
Keep the pot uncovered to prevent boil-overs and allow proper evaporation.
Optimal Cooking Time
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti typically requires 9-11 minutes of cooking time.
For al dente texture, cook for approximately 9 minutes. This results in pasta that’s tender but still firm to the bite.
If you prefer a softer consistency, extend cooking time to 10-11 minutes. Be cautious not to overcook, as this can lead to mushy pasta.
Factors like altitude and personal preference may slightly affect cooking times. It’s best to start checking the pasta at the 8-minute mark.
Once cooked to desired doneness, drain immediately in a colander. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as this removes starches that help sauce adhere.
Recipe Ideas
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti serves as a versatile base for countless delicious recipes. From rich, creamy sauces to light, aromatic oil-based options, this pasta pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients.
Classic Carbonara
Carbonara is a beloved Italian dish that perfectly complements Barilla spaghetti. Start by cooking the pasta al dente according to package instructions. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Pecorino Romano, and black pepper.
Sauté pancetta or guanciale until crispy. Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Quickly toss the hot pasta with the egg mixture, adding cooking water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
Mix in the crispy pork and additional cheese. The residual heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, resulting in a silky, indulgent coating. Garnish with extra black pepper and cheese for a truly authentic carbonara experience.
Traditional Tomato Sauce Pairing
A classic tomato sauce is a timeless companion to Barilla spaghetti. Begin by sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushing them by hand.
Simmer the sauce with basil, salt, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then toss it directly into the sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil leaves. For added depth, consider incorporating onions, oregano, or red pepper flakes into the sauce. This simple yet flavorful pairing highlights the quality of both the pasta and the tomatoes.
Oil-Based Sauces Inspiration
Oil-based sauces offer a lighter alternative that showcases the texture of Barilla spaghetti. A classic aglio e olio combines garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Sauté thinly sliced garlic in olive oil until golden, add red pepper flakes, then toss with cooked spaghetti and pasta water.
For a zesty twist, try a lemon and herb sauce. Combine lemon zest, juice, fresh herbs like parsley and basil, and olive oil. Toss with hot spaghetti and add toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Alternatively, create a sun-dried tomato pesto by blending sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, pine nuts, and basil. Mix with olive oil and Parmesan, then coat the spaghetti for a robust, tangy flavor profile.
Variety in Pasta
Barilla’s Classic Blue Box line offers a range of pasta shapes to suit different dishes and preferences. Each type has unique characteristics that complement various sauces and cooking methods.
Exploring Thin Spaghetti
Thin spaghetti provides a delicate texture while maintaining the classic long noodle shape. It cooks faster than regular spaghetti, making it ideal for quick meals. This pasta works well with light oil-based or tomato sauces.
Thin spaghetti absorbs flavors readily, enhancing the overall taste of dishes. It’s perfect for seafood pasta or simple garlic and olive oil preparations.
Discovering Linguine Fini
Linguine Fini is a thinner version of traditional linguine. Its flat, narrow shape allows for excellent sauce adhesion. This pasta pairs beautifully with seafood and cream-based sauces.
The delicate texture of Linguine Fini makes it suitable for lighter dishes. It cooks quickly and provides a satisfying mouthfeel without overwhelming other ingredients.
Angel Hair and Its Uses
Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is the thinnest long pasta in the Barilla lineup. Its fine strands cook in just a few minutes, making it perfect for quick meals.
This pasta shines in simple preparations with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. It’s also excellent in light broths or with delicate seafood. Angel hair’s thin texture requires careful cooking to avoid overcooking.
Fettuccine Versatility
Fettuccine’s ribbon-like shape and sturdy texture make it versatile for various sauces. It holds up well to thick, creamy sauces like Alfredo or meat ragouts.
The wide, flat surface of fettuccine provides ample space for sauce to cling. This pasta works in both hot dishes and cold salads. Its hearty nature makes it satisfying in vegetable-based recipes as well.
Penne and Its Popularity
Penne’s tube shape with angled ends makes it a popular choice for many dishes. The hollow center allows sauce to collect inside, ensuring flavor in every bite.
This pasta holds up well in baked dishes and casseroles. Penne pairs excellently with chunky vegetable sauces or meat-based ragouts. Its shape also makes it easy to eat, contributing to its widespread appeal.
Thick Spaghetti
Thick spaghetti, or spaghettoni, offers a heartier texture than regular spaghetti. Its robust nature stands up to bold, chunky sauces and intense flavors.
This pasta requires longer cooking times but maintains an excellent al dente texture. Thick spaghetti works well in dishes with substantial ingredients like meatballs or roasted vegetables.
It provides a satisfying chew and can handle heavy cream or meat-based sauces without losing its structure.
Consumer Interaction
Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti pasta offers features that allow users to personalize their shopping experience. These options enable customers to organize their preferred products and manage their selections efficiently.
Adding to Favourites
Barilla’s online platform allows customers to add Classic Blue Box Spaghetti to their favourites list. This feature simplifies future purchases by creating a quick-access shortcut to preferred items. Users can typically find an “Add to Favourites” button near the product image or description.
To add the spaghetti to favourites, customers usually need to be logged into their account. Once added, the item appears in a dedicated favourites section, making it easy to find and reorder.
Removing from Favourites
Removing Barilla Classic Blue Box Spaghetti from favourites is a straightforward process. Users can navigate to their favourites list and locate the spaghetti product. Most platforms provide a “Remove” or “Delete” option next to each item.
Clicking this button instantly removes the product from the favourites list. This action doesn’t affect past orders or delete the item from the store. It simply removes the shortcut from the user’s personal favourites section, allowing for easy list management.