With so many people following gluten-free diets these days, gluten-free pasta options have become increasingly popular. Ronzoni is one of the major mainstream pasta brands, so it’s natural to wonder – does Ronzoni make any gluten-free pasta varieties? Let’s take a look at what gluten-free pasta options Ronzoni has to offer.
What is Gluten?
Before diving into Ronzoni’s gluten-free offerings, it helps to understand what exactly gluten is. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, fatigue, headache, and skin rashes. Going gluten-free is the only treatment for celiac disease, and it can provide relief from symptoms for those with gluten sensitivity.
Gluten gives breads and other baked goods their stretchy, chewy texture. When you remove gluten from the equation, achieving that same texture can be tricky. That’s why gluten-free pasta tends to have a different texture than traditional wheat pasta – it lacks that distinct chewiness that gluten provides.
Does Ronzoni Make Gluten-Free Pasta?
The short answer is yes! Ronzoni does offer some gluten-free pasta options:
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Elbows
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Thin Spaghetti
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Spaghetti
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Penne Rigate
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Rotini
- Ronzoni Gluten Free Fusilli
Ronzoni’s gluten-free pastas are made from a blend of corn and rice. They are certified gluten-free, containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten. The pasta is enriched with vitamins and minerals like folic acid, iron, and B vitamins.
Where Can You Buy Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta?
You can find Ronzoni’s gluten-free pastas at most major grocery stores that carry the Ronzoni brand. The gluten-free pastas are usually stocked alongside the regular wheat Ronzoni pastas. Ronzoni gluten-free pasta can be purchased at stores like:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Publix
- Safeway
- Stop & Shop
- Giant
- Wegmans
- HEB
The gluten-free Ronzoni pastas typically retail for around $3.49 – $3.99 for a 16 oz box. You can also find them online at grocery delivery services like Instacart and Amazon. Ronzoni offers a store locator on their website to help you find local retailers that carry the gluten-free pasta.
How Does Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Taste?
Ronzoni gluten-free pasta gets good reviews for its taste and texture. Since it is made from a blend of corn and rice flours instead of wheat, it has a slightly different flavor and texture profile than traditional pasta. The rice flour gives it a bit of a sweetness, while the corn flour lends some grittiness. The texture is a little less firm than regular pasta. But overall, Ronzoni’s gluten-free pasta holds its shape when cooked and has a pleasant flavor.
Some customer reviews indicate the rotini and penne shapes stand up best to cooking, while the spaghetti may get a little soggy. The pasta has a faster cooking time than regular pasta, so be sure not to overcook it. Ronzoni recommends cooking their gluten-free pasta for 4-5 minutes for al dente texture.
While it may not be a perfect mimic of wheat pasta, most customers seem pleased with the taste and texture of Ronzoni’s gluten-free option. Many reviews say it tastes very close to traditional pasta and has a good “bite” when al dente. The rice and corn blend gives it a more interesting flavor than pastas made only with rice flour. Overall, it’s one of the better-tasting gluten-free pasta brands.
Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for Ronzoni gluten-free pasta:
| Serving Size | 2 oz (56g) dry |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Total Fat | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 5g |
Ronzoni gluten-free pasta is higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein compared to traditional wheat pasta. It is also lacking in micronutrients like iron and B vitamins that wheat pasta contains due to wheat germ. But the gluten-free pasta is enriched with vitamins and minerals to increase its nutritional value.
Each serving provides about 40% of the recommended daily intake for fiber. So Ronzoni’s gluten-free pasta can help boost your fiber intake compared to regular pasta.
Overall, while not as nutrient-dense as whole wheat pasta, Ronzoni gluten-free pasta provides a quick and convenient gluten-free carbohydrate source.
Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Recipes
Ronzoni gluten-free pasta works well in all kinds of dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to inspire you:
Gluten-Free Pasta Primavera
Pasta primavera is a delicious spring vegetable pasta dish. To make it gluten-free:
- Cook 8 oz Ronzoni gluten-free penne according to package directions
- Saute chopped veggies like asparagus, zucchini, and red peppers in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes
- Add cooked gluten-free pasta, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese
- Toss everything together until pasta and veggies are well coated
Gluten-Free Chicken Alfredo
Ronzoni gluten-free fettuccine is ideal for this creamy chicken pasta dish:
- Cook 8 oz Ronzoni gluten-free fettuccine per package instructions
- Cook chopped chicken breasts in a skillet until browned and cooked through
- Make alfredo sauce by simmering heavy cream, butter, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Add cooked fettuccine and chicken to alfredo sauce and mix well
- Top with extra parmesan and chopped parsley before serving
Gluten-Free Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a simple and delicious seafood pasta dish. To prepare it gluten-free:
- Saute shrimp and garlic in butter and olive oil over medium heat until shrimp are pink
- Deglaze pan with white wine and lemon juice
- Cook 8 oz Ronzoni gluten-free linguine according to package directions
- Toss cooked linguine with shrimp sauce until well combined
- Garnish with parsley and parmesan before serving
Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
Chilled pasta salads make great make-ahead meals for lunches and picnics. For gluten-free pasta salad:
- Cook 8 oz Ronzoni gluten-free rotini according to package instructions
- Toss cooked rotini with halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, shredded carrots
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make dressing
- Pour dressing over pasta and veggies and stir to coat
- Chill pasta salad in fridge until ready to serve
Is Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Safe for Celiacs?
Ronzoni states that their gluten-free pasta contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This makes it safe for most people on a gluten-free diet. However, the brand does not claim the pasta is 100% gluten-free.
For people with celiac disease, even tiny amounts of gluten can cause issues. Since facilities also process wheat pasta, there is a small chance of cross-contamination. So individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance need to exercise caution with Ronzoni gluten-free products.
Those with celiac may want to opt for pasta brands that are certified gluten-free and process only gluten-free grains to eliminate any risk of contamination.
That said, many celiacs do report being able to eat Ronzoni gluten-free pasta safely. As with any new product, it’s best to start with a small serving to see how your body reacts before incorporating it as a regular part of your diet.
Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Reviews
Here’s what people are saying about Ronzoni’s gluten-free pasta in online reviews:
Positive Reviews
- “Tastes very close to regular pasta – my family can’t tell the difference when I make dishes with it.”
- “Cooks up perfectly al dente and holds its shape well. Great alternative to wheat pasta.”
- “My son has celiac and loves Ronzoni GF pasta. Doesn’t upset his stomach like some other brands.”
- “Affordable price point makes it a go-to GF pasta option for our family.”
- “The spaghetti is so delicious my gluten eating kids will choose it over regular pasta!”
Critical Reviews
- “Got sick after eating this – would not recommend for anyone with celiac disease.”
- “Rice flour makes it taste too sweet to me. I prefer other GF pasta brands.”
- “The noodles are much more delicate than wheat pasta and broke apart easily during cooking.”
- “Leaves an odd aftertaste and gritty texture I don’t like.”
- “Overpriced for GF pasta that isn’t anything special in terms of taste or quality.”
As with any product, experiences vary person to person. While most reviews of Ronzoni gluten-free pasta are positive, it may not suit every person’s preferences and needs. Celiacs in particular may want to exercise some caution and opt for a dedicated gluten-free brand.
Alternative Gluten-Free Pasta Brands
Beyond Ronzoni, there are many other gluten-free pasta brands on the market to explore. Here are some top reviewed alternatives:
Barilla Gluten Free
- Made from corn and rice
- Varieties include spaghetti, elbows, and penne
- Widely available at grocery stores
- Slightly sweeter corn flavor
Jovial Gluten Free
- Made from brown rice
- Offerings include pasta shapes, lasagna sheets, and spirals
- Available at Whole Foods and online
- Nutty, hearty flavor from brown rice
Schaer Gluten Free
- Made from corn
- Extensive assortment of cuts like radiatori, campanelle, shells
- Sold online and at natural grocers
- Mild flavor lets sauces shine
Trader Joe’s Gluten Free
- Made from corn and quinoa
- Offerings include penne, spirals, elbows and shells
- Sold exclusively at Trader Joe’s
- Hearty texture
There are so many great gluten-free pasta options available now that there’s no need to miss out on pasta night. While Ronzoni offers a convenient gluten-free line, explore some of the dedicated GF pasta brands for more variety in flavors, cuts, and nutrition profiles.
Is Ronzoni the Best Gluten-Free Pasta?
Whether Ronzoni is the best gluten-free pasta comes down to personal preference. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Pros
- Widely available at grocery stores
- Affordable price point
- Trusted brand name with long history
- Variety of cuts like spaghetti, penne, rotini
- Corn and rice blend has pleasant flavor
- Better texture than rice-only gluten-free pasta
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals
- Certified at <20 ppm of gluten
Ronzoni Gluten-Free Pasta Cons
- Not 100% gluten-free – risk of cross-contamination
- Texture and taste differs from traditional wheat pasta
- Less protein than traditional pasta
- Not compatible with all pasta dishes
- More delicate texture may not hold up well to heavy sauces
- Only available in limited cuts compared to other GF brands
Ronzoni gluten-free pasta is a good option for an easy weeknight dinner thanks to its convenience and affordability. But for those with celiac disease or serious gluten intolerance, or those wanting better taste and texture, a dedicated gluten-free brand may be preferable.
There is no definitive “best” gluten-free pasta – it depends on your taste preferences, budget, gluten tolerance level, and what dishes you plan to use it for. Try out a variety like Ronzoni and other leading gluten-free brands to see which one suits your needs.
Conclusion
Ronzoni offers a line of gluten-free pastas made from a blend of corn and rice flours. Their gluten-free pasta comes in cuts like spaghetti, penne, rotini, and more. It receives positive reviews for its taste and texture, which mimics traditional pasta better than rice-only options. Ronzoni gluten-free pasta can be found at most major grocery retailers for an affordable price.
While Ronzoni gluten-free pasta contains under 20ppm of gluten, it is not certified 100% gluten-free. So individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance need to exercise caution and evaluate if cross-contamination could be an issue. Numerous gluten-free only pasta brands may be a safer choice for those with serious gluten concerns.
Overall, Ronzoni gluten-free pasta provides a convenient, mainstream option for those seeking gluten-free pasta. While not perfect, it can satisfy a pasta craving when you need a quick gluten-free dinner option. Just be mindful of the risks for those with celiac and be sure to cook it al dente to achieve the best texture.
