Gragnano Pasta, a Specialty You Should Try

Gragnano, a small town near Naples in Italy, is renowned as the “City of Pasta.” Its pasta is considered some of the best in the world, thanks to the long tradition of artisanal pasta-making, the ideal climate conditions for drying pasta, and the high-quality ingredients. Gragnano pasta has even earned the PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status from the European Union, which ensures its authenticity and ties to its region of origin.

Why is Gragnano Pasta so Special?

Gragnano pasta stands out for several reasons.

First of all, it is produced following traditional methods. It is extruded through bronze dies, which give it a slightly rough texture that helps sauces cling better, making every bite more flavorful. Then, the pasta is dried slowly at low temperatures (compared to industrially-made pasta, which is dried quickly at high heat). This preserves the wheat’s natural flavor and ensures the pasta has a firm, al dente texture.

The ingredients comes from a unique territory. The town of Gragnano has the perfect microclimate for pasta production, with a mix of sea breezes and mountain air that aids in the drying process. Moreover, pasta is made with spring water from the nearby Lattari Mountains, which gives it a distinctive flavor and quality, and with the finest durum wheat semolina, which results in pasta that holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy when cooked.

How to Choose the Best Gragnano Pasta

Pasta from Gragnano would make a perfect and authentic souvenir from the Amalfi Coast, especially if you are pasta enthusiast who enjoys quality ingredients and you don’t mind spending a little more (Gragnano pasta is more expensive than supermarket brands.)

Here’s what you should pay attention to when buying it:

1. Look for the PGI Label

This guarantees that the pasta was made in Gragnano, following traditional methods and high-quality standards.

2. Check the Packaging

Gragnano pasta is often sold in beautiful, rustic packaging, often featuring the name of the producer and sometimes the history of the brand. If you’re looking for something special for a gift, opt for packaging that reflects the artisanal nature of the product.

Make sure the label is clear and includes details such as the origin (Gragnano), the ingredients (typically durum wheat semolina and water), and the producer’s name. This helps confirm you’re buying a true product from Gragnano.

3. Buy from Local Shops or Specialty Stores

Look for small local shops, food markets, or delicatessens and avoid supermarkets, which may carry Gragnano pasta, but of lower quality. Small family-run shops are ideal for finding premium, artisanal brands. You can find them in Gragnano itself or in the nearby towns of the Amalfi Coast and the Sorrento Peninsula.
If you have the possibility, visit local pasta factories and buy directly from them, which is a great way to support local artisans and learn more about the production process.

4. Choose the Right Type of Pasta

Some of the most famous shapes of Gragnano pasta are spaghetti, penne, paccheri, fusilli, and cavatelli. If you’re unsure, classic spaghetti or penne is always a great option. However, if you want something unique, choose paccheri (large, wide tubes).

Some brands offer flavored Gragnano pasta, such as whole wheat, spicy, or with saffron. These can make for an interesting gift or an extra treat.

5. Price Consideration

We have said that Gragnano pasta can be more expensive than supermarket pasta, but it’s worth it for the quality and authenticity. So, if the price seems too low for a PGI-certified product, it might not be the genuine article.

6. Check the Expiry Date

Gragnano pasta is typically very well-preserved due to its slow drying process, but it’s always a good idea to check the expiration date to ensure freshness, especially if you’re bringing it back home.

How to Enjoy this Pasta

This product is a true treat, and the best way to enjoy it is with simple, high-quality ingredients that let it shine. Classic pasta dishes are Spaghetti with tomato sauce, Cacio e Pepe with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper, with clams or baked in the oven with mozzarella. It becomes even more tasty when paired with local wines, such as Falanghina or Greco di Tufo.

 

Enjoy your trip to Italy, stay in one of our villas for rent on the Amalfi Coast.