Did you know that there are over 350 different pasta shapes? 350! Now that’s a lot of pasta. Each shape serves its own purpose and is designed to be paired with a different sauce. There are also pasta shapes that are meant to be stuffed or layered with different meats and cheeses. While we won’t go into detail on all 600+ pasta shapes in this blog, we will school you on some of the most popular kinds and what they’re best used for. Dig in!
Spaghetti
Let’s start with the classic—spaghetti! These long strands of noodles pair best with a light sauce, whether it be a tomato-based sauce or just some garlic and olive oil. Also in the thin long-stranded noodle family are angel hair, capellini, and spaghettini.
Ravioli
Ravioli is a great stuffed pasta that can be filled with anything from meat to cheese to vegetables—or all of the above together! Since there are so many delicious flavors inside, you’ll want to pair this pasta with a simple oil- or cream-based sauce that pairs nicely with your filling.
Tortellini
You can think of tortellini like a pasta dumpling! This pasta can also be filled with a variety of ingredients. Pesto, creamy sauces, tomato sauce, and pink sauce are all great pairings. Also in this pasta family are tortelloni and cappelletti (which translates to “little hat!”).
Bucatini
Not to be mistaken with spaghetti, bucatini is a thicker noodle shape that typically has a hole running down the middle, which allows it to better absorb all that delicious pasta sauce. Opt for a creamy sauce for pairing!
Fettuccine
Fettuccine is another long noodle type, but this one is on the thicker side. It’s typically paired with a rich, decadent sauce like alfredo.
Gnocchi
Okay, we know—gnocchi isn’t technically pasta. It’s actually a type of dumpling, traditionally made with potatoes, flour, and eggs (though some versions use ricotta or semolina). But since it’s served much like pasta and appears on many Italian menus right alongside spaghetti and ravioli, it definitely deserves a spot on our list! Gnocchi pairs beautifully with almost any sauce—from a simple butter and sage to pesto or a rich tomato-based sauce.
Hungry Yet?
If you’re looking to explore the wide world of pasta further, come try some of our pasta offerings at Mulino! We offer a variety of these noodle types and serve them in delicious, unique ways. We dare you to try them all. 😉 Make a reservation to join us now!
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