The Rise of Etto Pasta: Exploring the Versatility and Flavor of this Italian Classic

Not all pasta is created equal. Pasta is simple and unpretentious. Yet it is also complex, nutritious, and distinct. It is amazing how something so simple can be incredibly diverse, endlessly creative, and good for you. Craft pasta like the best ones made in Italy are rare and delicious in texture, aroma and flavor. Etto brings the best of pasta to California using the best American ingredients and the best Italian craft pasta equipment, technique and style.

Etto Pasta is a brand of artisanal pasta that is known for its high-quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and unique shapes. Founded in 2012 by chef and restaurateur Liz Matthews, Etto Pasta is based in the UK and uses only the finest, carefully-sourced ingredients, including Italian semolina flour and free-range eggs.

Pasta is a daily food of Italy. However, its appearance across the country is far from monotonous. The great variety of pasta shapes accentuate Italy’s regional differences and draw attention to the distinctions that define local identities. Each dish can tell a story of a place, its history, its people, and a way of life. (Not to mention that Italy ranks as the healthiest nation in the world*.) Italians eat pasta by the etto (100 grams or about ¼ pound). An etto represents a sensible portion of pasta for one person, as either a primi or as part of a balanced meal.

Etto is family-owned, sources quality ingredients, and values our customers and community. Our pasta factory is located in Tin City, an industrial area comprised of small artisanal winemakers, breweries, a creamery, distillery and more. This creative hub is in Paso Robles, California.

You can also visit the Etto Marketplace located in Tin City. Here you will find fresh Etto pasta, local and imported specialty foods, Italian wines from Giornata  and much more!

Etto Pasta offers a wide range of pasta shapes, from classic option like Creste di Gallo to more unusual shapes like Casarecce, Conchigliette and Figaro. Each shape is crafted using time-honored methods and the best ingredients, resulting in a pasta that is both flavorful and texturally superior to mass-produced options. Etto Pasta also offers a range of sauces and pestos to complement their pasta, making it easy to create delicious and authentic Italian meals at home.

Herbed Chicken and Tomato Pasta with Etto Pasta

 Recipe for Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 1/2 pound Etto Pasta (penne, fusilli or spaghetti)
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
  4. Add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Arrange sliced tomatoes around the chicken thighs in the skillet.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are tender.
  7. While the chicken is baking, cook the Etto Pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  8. Serve the Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal featuring Etto Pasta!