Pasta is a delicious, versatile, and essential part of Italian cuisine, and it comes in many different forms. Each shape has its own sauce and ingredient pairings that bring out the best flavors and consistencies. The introductory guide below reveals some of the most common types of pasta, along with pairings that turn them into culinary masterpieces.

A Guide to Pasta Shapes

1. Spaghetti

Perhaps the most popular pasta of all, spaghetti is a classic choice for a reason. These long, thin, cylindrical noodles bundle perfectly around your fork and taste fantastic with a simple tomato sauce. Light sauces like oil and marinara work best with spaghetti. Meat pairings like meatballs and sausage can add a touch of savory spice.

2. Ziti

Ziti is a smooth, tube-shaped noodle that can be served long or short. The hose-like structure of ziti lets it hold and retain the delicious flavors added. If you’re ordering this pasta at a restaurant, baked ziti is the most preferred method of cooking. This gives the noodles a pleasantly chewy texture with a slight crunch that blends well with melted cheese.

3. Linguini

Cut in the form of a long, thin, and flat noodle, linguini holds light cream-based sauces nicely. For this reason, it’s ideal for seafood dishes. The structure of the pasta holds up well to shrimp, scallops, and calamari. If you can’t decide between ordering pasta or fish, seafood linguini is a tasty compromise.

4. Fettuccine

Fettuccine is long and flat like linguini, but the noodles are slightly wider. Italian food lovers typically pair fettuccine with thicker, creamier sauces due to its durability. You’ve likely had fettuccine Alfredo, but fettuccine Portofino is also a crowd-pleasing option. This dish is typically made with pink sauce, shrimp, and mushrooms.

5. Angel Hair

Also known as capellini or capelli d’angelo, angel hair is the thinnest type of pasta you can order. This shape gives the noodles a light, delicate texture. Choose light sauces and toppings that won’t overpower the noodles. Olive oil, herbs, and veggies create a fresh, tasty meal that is sure to please.

Hungry for a mouthwatering pasta dish made with your favorite toppings? Order delivery or dine in at Inzillo’s Pizza of Jackson, NJ. This pizza restaurant is committed to creating flavorful Italian meals using the finest, freshest ingredients. They offer a wide variety of options for whatever you’re craving, from hot calzones and customizable pizzas to fresh salads and delectable pastas. Check out their full menu online. To place a delivery or carryout order, call (732) 370-0310.