A type of pasta that differs from the others in that it always contains eggs or egg yolks blended into flour and water. They can be purchased dry or fresh and in a variety of shapes, sizes and textures. Dry noodles can be stored for up to six months in a cool dry place but fresh noodles should be wrapped in plastic and stored in the refrigerator, where they can be stored for up to four days. Noodles can be used as a side dish, or in soups and casseroles.
Pasta strands are long rods of pasta, which are generally round, but they are available in a square rod also. The basic difference from one variety to the next is the thickness of the strands.
Asian Noodles
Asian noodles consist of strands that vary in shape, width, and length. Many Asian noodles are very long in length, symbolizing longevity. They can be thin straight sticks, flat strands, round strands, and wavy strands.
Ribbon pasta, which is flat strands of pasta, is available in different lengths, widths and thickness. Some are short and wide, while others are long and narrow. Ribbon pasta can have straight or wavy edges and many varieties are available fresh and dried.
Asian noodles, like pasta noodles, are available in round, flat and square shapes, and in various widths and lengths. Most often Asian noodles are purchased, rather than made by hand.