The Italian dish pasta is famous all over the world. It is delicious, comforting, creamy and soul satisfying. From alfredo pasta to meat ball spaghetti, different varieties of pasta only make us want more of this delicacy. But do you know what the different shapes and types of pasta are called? Let us take a quick look.

Spaghetti

Perhaps the most iconic pasta shape, spaghetti consists of long, thin strands. Its simplicity makes it a favourite for various sauces, from classic marinara to creamy Alfredo. Spaghetti's slender form allows it to twirl gracefully around the fork, capturing the essence of the sauce.

Penne

Recognisable by its short, tube-like shape with diagonally cut ends, penne is a versatile pasta that holds sauces inside its hollow center. Its simple shape makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of dishes, including baked pasta casseroles and pasta salad.

Fusilli

Fusilli, with its spiral or corkscrew shape, is a delicious pasta variety that not only holds sauces well but also adds a delightful texture to dishes. The spirals can trap chunky sauces, making each bite a satisfying journey. Fusilli pairs wonderfully with both light, olive oil-based sauces and heartier cream based sauces.

Farfalle

Commonly known as bow-tie or butterfly pasta, boasts a distinctive shape resembling a folded ribbon. This pasta is not only visually appealing but also practical, capturing both light and hearty sauces within its folds. Farfalle is often used in salads, as its shape complements a variety of ingredients.

Linguine

It is similar to spaghetti but with a flat, narrow profile. This pasta variety is known for its delicate and silky texture, making it a perfect partner for lighter, seafood-based sauces or simple olive oil and garlic combinations. Its flat shape allows it to cradle sauces gracefully.

Pappardelle

This is a wide, flat pasta that brings an indulgent touch to any dish. Its broad ribbons are perfect for pairing with rich, meat-based sauces, like Bolognese. The wide surface area of pappardelle allows for a good balance between pasta and sauce in every forkful.

So, the next time you order or cook pasta, you will know which shape will perfectly compliment your dish.