Pasta by Design: The Beautiful Geometry of Pasta

Pasta by Design by George L. Legendre
Pasta by Design by George L. Legendre

“Pasta by Design” transcends the realms of a simple culinary exploration; it is, in fact, a captivating odyssey that intertwines the intricate beauty of mathematics with the art of gastronomy. This exquisite volume invites readers to delve into the awe-inspiring mathematical elegance that permeates the expansive universe of pasta. With an astonishing variety of shapes, each boasting distinctive characteristics and a nomenclature that often mystifies even the most adept chefs, “Pasta by Design” approaches its subject through the innovative lens of phylogeny—the study of the evolutionary relationships that bind different organisms together.

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Pasta by Design by George Legendre

Employing this fascinating methodology, “Pasta by Design” meticulously categorizes an impressive 92 distinct pasta shapes based on their morphological traits, ultimately presenting them in a gracefully designed family tree. Each pasta shape is not merely identified but exalted, elucidated by precisely formulated mathematical equations that illustrate their unique geometric proportions. Accompanying these elegant formulas are strikingly minimalist photographs and illustrations that showcase the often-ignored splendor inherent in these beloved culinary forms.

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Pasta by Design by George Legendre
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Pasta by Design by George Legendre
Pasta by Design
Pasta by Design by George Legendre

With its quirky yet rigorously researched perspective, “Pasta by Design” serves to demystify the intertwined complexities of mathematics while enriching our appreciation for one of the world’s most treasured staples. This enchanting tome encourages readers to adopt an interdisciplinary viewpoint, inviting us to appreciate designs not just through the lens of culinary traditions but also through a culturally enriching mathematical framework that illuminates the beauty of what we eat.

Ali Kaya

Author

Ali Kaya

This is Ali. Bespectacled and mustachioed father, math blogger, and soccer player. I also do consult for global math and science startups.