Trenette: All about the pasta variety
Ribbon-shaped pasta is one of the most well-known types of pasta in the world. Some of the most popular are linguine, fettuccine and even bavette. But have you ever heard of trenette?
The name Trenette is derived from the word “trena”, which means “string” in Genoese. It originates from Liguria, a region bordering the Italian Riviera. Although the trenette has been around for a long time, it only recently became famous thanks to the Disney film Luca.
In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about trenette and discover delicious recipes to go with this type of pasta.
Trenette: origin and meaning
| Pasta type | Trenette |
| Category | Ribbon noodles |
| Length | approx. 25.4 cm. |
| Width | varies |
| Thickness | varies |
| Origin: | Liguria, Italy |
| Meaning | From the Italian “trena”, meaning “strand” |
| Synonyms | Trinette |
| Similar types of pasta | Linguine, Bavette |
Where do Trenette come from?
Trenette pasta has its origins in the Italian region of Liguria. This region, which is home to both breathtaking coastlines and the picturesque Apennine mountains, is home to one of the oldest pasta-making traditions in Italy and one of the most diverse regional cuisines.
What does Trenette mean?
The word “trenette” comes from the Genoese word “trena”, which means “string”. Traditionally, trenette are prepared with green beans, potatoes and Genoese pesto.
What is the difference between trenette and linguine?
As they look almost identical, it is often assumed that trenette and linguine are just different names for the same pasta. However, a closer look reveals that trenette has a rounder shape than linguine, which has a flatter silhouette. Due to their similarity, these two types of pasta can be considered interchangeable!
Recipes with Trenette
Here are some traditional dishes that you can prepare with Trenette pasta:
Trenette al pesto
This hearty, comforting recipe with fresh basil pesto sauce, potatoes and green beans is the traditional way to serve trenette pasta. Thanks to the Disney film Luca, more and more people are getting to know this unique dish.
Trenette with swordfish sauce
As Liguria is a coastal region, it has some of the best seafood the country has to offer. A few freshly caught swordfish cutlets together with tomatoes, garlic and capers make a refreshingly satisfying sauce that goes perfectly with trenette pasta.
Conclusion
Trenette pasta is one of the most versatile pasta shapes. Thanks to its long, ribbon-shaped form, you can use it like any other ribbon-shaped pasta, but its unique thickness and texture ensure that creamy and chunky sauces adhere better to it.
