The popularity for pasta in America saw a significant boost during the 20th century. As Americans became obsessed with pasta it became very popular and a common item on restaurant menus throughout the United States. Part of this pasta craze was led by a large group of immigrants that relocated to America from Italy in the late 19th century/early 20th century.
Pasta is a general term that refers to all different types of noodles/shells. It is typically made from unleavened dough or a durum wheat flour mixed with water or eggs, and formed into shapes, then cooked by boiling or baking. Pasta is divided into two broad categories fresh and dried. Right now there are approximately 350 different types of Pasta out there. Each pasta shell varies in thickness, size, and texture. Therefore, different pasta shells are used for different meals.
In this blog we will be looking at a variety of different pasta shells/noodles:
Pappardelle
Pappardelle pasta is a thicker pasta that is generally consumed with hearty meat sauces or with a creamy alfredo sauce. People have commonly referred to this noodle as a thicker fettuccini noodle.
Farfalle “Bow Tie”
Farfalle is the Italian word for butterfly. However, Americans generally refer to farfalle pasta as bow tie pasta. This pasta works well for a cold pasta salad or in a warm bowl with meats and veggies. Bow Tie pasta is my favorite pasta and is what my mom used to always make for me when I was a kid.
Shells
May of you will see this type of shell and instantly think of Velveeta Mac and Cheese just like me. Shells are the “utility player” of the pasta game. Depending on the size they can be used for a variety different things. Large shells are usually stuffed and baked with dishes such as manicotti. Medium shells can be used for different types of casseroles. The small shells can be used for mac and cheese (Velveeta) or in soups and stews.
Lasagna
The name is pretty self explanatory on what it is used for. Lasagna noodles are made specifically for Lasagna. Lasagna is a very popular Italian dish accompanied by meats, sauce, and cheese.
Fusilli
This pasta is commonly referred to people as the “corkscrew pasta”. It is a thick and long spiral shape and taste great with any type of sauce, but especially a meat sauce. The spirals/twist hold onto the meaty sauce giving each bite a lot of flavor.
Spaghetti
Spaghetti noodles are the most commonly used pasta throughout the world. This is combined with any meat, sauce, or veggies. Spaghetti is very easy to make and is an easy go to dish if you don’t have much time to cook.
Penne
These are the small cylinder pasta that you see. Penne pasta comes in a variety of different flavors. Some flavors that penne pasta is available in is egg, tomato, and spinach. This pasta works really well for pasta salads, but can be used for a simple pasta dish too.
Tortellini
Like Penne Pasta, tortellini pasta comes in a variety of different flavors such as egg, tomato, and spinach. Inside the tortellini is generally cheese or meat, but sometimes both combined.
Ravioli
Ravioli is another popular pasta noodle. For me ravioli is my MVP. A simple delicious meal that fills me up. Like tortellini noodles, ravioli “pillows” are filled with cheese or meat, and sometimes both. Ravioli can also be served with any type of sauce.
What is your favorite type of pasta and why? Comment below!
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