What Is the Chitarra?
The chitarra (pronounced “kee-tahr-rah”) is a traditional pasta-making tool from the Abruzzo region of Italy. Its name, meaning “guitar,” is inspired by its design: a wooden frame strung with tightly spaced steel wires. These wires are used to cut sheets of dough into perfectly square spaghetti strands, aptly named spaghetti alla chitarra.
The chitarra offers more than just a practical way to make pasta—it’s a tactile, sensory experience that inspires teamwork. From pressing the dough through the strings to “strumming” the wires to release the pasta, the process encourages collaboration and creativity, making it ideal for team-building workshops.
Why Choose a Chitarra Workshop for Your Team?
1. Hands-On Collaboration
Creating pasta with a chitarra requires teamwork. Team members must prepare the dough, roll it out, and work together to achieve perfectly cut strands. This shared activity fosters communication, problem-solving, and trust.
2. Cultural Connection
Learning about the Abruzzese roots of the chitarra connects participants to a rich history, promoting cultural appreciation and curiosity.
3. Rewarding Results
Unlike typical team-building activities, a chitarra workshop ends with a tangible and delicious reward—a meal shared together. The sense of accomplishment adds extra flavor to the experience.
The Magic of Chitarra Pasta
The square edges of chitarra pasta give it a firm, satisfying texture that’s unlike traditional spaghetti. This unique shape also provides a porous surface, allowing sauces to cling beautifully. When paired with a rich tomato and garlic —a staple of Abruzzese cuisine—the pasta transforms into a symphony of flavors, celebrating the region’s culinary heritage.
Simple Tomato and Garlic Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional, for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan Heat olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the Garlic Add the sliced garlic to the pan and cook until it turns golden and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Add the Tomatoes Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
- Season the Sauce Add red pepper flakes (if using), sugar (if desired), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Taste and Adjust Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
- Serve Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta (like spaghetti alla chitarra) or serve over grilled vegetables or meat. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
A Taste of Abruzzo
The Abruzzo region, where the chitarra originates, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and deeply rooted traditions. Trying spaghetti alla chitarra in its birthplace is an unforgettable experience. The pasta’s texture is firm yet tender, perfectly complementing the hearty lamb ragù, slow-cooked to perfection. The dish embodies the spirit of the region: rustic, robust, and deeply satisfying.
Where to Get Started
If you’re inspired to bring the magic of chitarra pasta-making to your team, there are two great ways to start:
- Purchase Your Own Chitarra
Bring Abruzzese tradition to your kitchen with the Eppicotispai Chitarra Cutter, available on Amazon. - Join a Virtual Pasta-Making Class
Skip the hassle and let the experts guide your team through the process. TBA’s Virtual Pasta Classes offer interactive pasta-making workshops, perfect for remote or hybrid teams.
A New Era of Team Building
In today’s workplace, rekindling engagement requires more than just meetings and icebreakers. A chitarra pasta-making workshop brings teams together in a meaningful, interactive way. It’s more than just food—it’s about connection, collaboration, and creating something beautiful together.
Take a step toward re-energizing your team with this timeless tradition. Whether you’re slicing pasta, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying the process, you’ll find that the chitarra is more than a tool—it’s a catalyst for unity and joy.
