For a number of reasons, pasta is arguably the most iconic food in Italian cuisine. One such reason? It is incredibly versatile, appearing in a number of ways, shapes, and forms. Chances are you’ve heard of at least a few of the classic pasta types, like penne, and spaghetti, for example, but there is truly a plethora of pasta types waiting to be discovered. In today’s blog, we aim to travel a bit further into the world of pasta and explore the most intriguing types of pasta. If that sounds interesting, keep reading below for more information!
Angel Hair
Likely the most poetically-named pasta out there, angel hair is known for being quite delicate and thin – as you would imagine the namesake to be. Also known as capellini, angel hair heavily resembles standard spaghetti but is more suited for light sauces, as in heavy sauces, it can easily break and become overpowered.
What goes best with it: Angel hair goes great with any light sauce
Ditalini
Ditalini may not be as common as other pasta shapes, but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun to eat. These miniature-sized tubes can be paired excellently with heavier and thicker sauces, but are also widely used in pasta salads and soups. They are possibly one of the most eatable pasta shapes, as any fork or spoonful is sure to get you a plentiful amount, with no twirling or cutting necessary.
What goes best with it: Thicker, heavier sauces can be soaked up by ditalini quite well, in addition to soups and/or pasta salads.
Fusilli
Distinguished by its spiral shape, fusilli has become a longstanding favorite for its ability to carry sauces, in addition to other ingredients and flavors, in its crevices. You will commonly see this pasta type make an appearance in pasta salads, as it meshes almost flawlessly with other ingredients.
What goes best with it: Much like ditalini, fusilli is sure to pair well with thick and heavy sauces, in addition to pasta salads.
Gnocchi
Though it is nontraditional in its texture and shape, gnocchi is beloved by many for its uniqueness and versatility. Usually made from potato, gnocchi can be found prepared with a variety of different sauces and ingredients, though it is usually thick and heavy sauces that are the most common.
What goes best with it: A variety of sauces, though many prepare it with thick and heavy sauces.
Looking For Quality Italian Food in Boston’s North End? Visit us at Strega!
Whatever brings you into the North End, we’d love to see you here at Strega. Offering a delicious selection of Italian food and drink, Strega is located on historic Hanover Street right here in the North End! Call us at 617-523-8481 to make a reservation today!
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