Top 7 Types Of Pasta You Need To Try At Least Once

Vada Tromp 20 May 2025

Hey pasta lovers! Are you ready for a mouthwatering journey through the top 7 types of pasta? Pasta is more than just food—it’s an experience, a tradition, and honestly, a reason to live. Whether you're a carb enthusiast or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this list has got you covered. So grab your fork, because we're diving deep into the world of pasta magic.

Pasta comes in so many shapes, sizes, and textures, each designed to complement different sauces and ingredients. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your next dish. That's why we've compiled this ultimate guide to the top 7 types of pasta that every foodie needs to try at least once in their lifetime.

From classic favorites to lesser-known gems, this list will take you on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So let's get started, shall we? Because life’s too short for boring pasta nights!

Why Pasta Matters in Your Life

Let's talk about why pasta deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation. First off, it's versatile AF. You can pair it with anything—tomato sauce, creamy Alfredo, pesto, or even just olive oil and garlic. Second, it's super easy to cook. Boil water, toss in the pasta, stir occasionally, and boom—you're done. Lastly, pasta is comfort food at its finest. There's nothing like a warm bowl of pasta to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Top 7 Types of Pasta You Need to Try

1. Spaghetti

Let's start with the classic: spaghetti. This long, thin pasta is a staple in Italian cuisine and for good reason. Its simple shape makes it perfect for pairing with light sauces like marinara or aglio e olio. Plus, it's super easy to twirl around your fork, making it a fan favorite worldwide.

Best sauce pairings: Tomato-based sauces, olive oil, garlic
Fun fact: Spaghetti is believed to have originated in Sicily
Where to try: Any Italian restaurant worth its salt will have a killer spaghetti dish

2. Penne

Penne is another crowd-pleaser, thanks to its tube-like shape with angled ends. This pasta is great for holding chunky sauces and veggies, making it a versatile option for any meal. Whether you're making a classic penne alla vodka or a creamy mushroom sauce, penne always delivers.

Best sauce pairings: Creamy sauces, tomato-based sauces, meat-based sauces
Fun fact: Penne gets its name from the Italian word for "quill" or "pen"
Where to try: Try it at your local Italian eatery or make it at home—it's super easy!

3. Fettuccine

Oh, fettuccine, how we love thee. This flat, ribbon-like pasta is a match made in heaven with rich, creamy sauces like Alfredo. Its wide surface area allows it to soak up all the flavors of the sauce, making each bite pure bliss.

Best sauce pairings: Creamy sauces, butter-based sauces
Fun fact: Fettuccine means "little ribbons" in Italian
Where to try: Any Italian restaurant worth its pasta will have a fettuccine dish

4. Rigatoni

Rigatoni is like the big brother of penne. With its large, ridged tubes, it's perfect for holding hearty sauces and chunky ingredients. Whether you're making a baked pasta dish or a simple stovetop meal, rigatoni always brings the flavor.

Best sauce pairings: Meat-based sauces, tomato-based sauces, baked dishes
Fun fact: Rigatoni is often used in Italian-American dishes like baked ziti
Where to try: Try it in a baked pasta dish at your favorite Italian spot

5. Farfalle

Also known as bowtie pasta, farfalle is a fun and playful shape that's perfect for salads and lighter dishes. Its unique shape helps it hold onto sauces and ingredients, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Best sauce pairings: Light sauces, vinaigrettes, pesto
Fun fact: Farfalle means "butterflies" in Italian
Where to try: Try it in a pasta salad or a light tomato sauce dish

6. Linguine

Linguine is like spaghetti's thinner, flatter cousin. This pasta is perfect for pairing with seafood dishes, as its delicate texture complements the flavors of the ocean. Whether you're making a clam sauce or a simple garlic and oil dish, linguine is always a great choice.

Best sauce pairings: Seafood-based sauces, light sauces
Fun fact: Linguine means "little tongues" in Italian
Where to try: Try it in a seafood pasta dish at your local Italian restaurant

7. Gnocchi

Okay, okay, gnocchi isn't technically pasta, but it's so good that we had to include it on this list. These little potato dumplings are soft, pillowy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're making a classic gnocchi alla sorrentina or a modern take on the dish, gnocchi is always a crowd-pleaser.

Best sauce pairings: Creamy sauces, tomato-based sauces, butter-based sauces
Fun fact: Gnocchi is traditionally made with potatoes, but you can also find versions made with ricotta or semolina
Where to try: Try it at a high-end Italian restaurant or make it from scratch at home

How to Choose the Right Pasta for Your Dish

Choosing the right pasta for your dish can make all the difference in the world. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

Consider the sauce: Thicker sauces work better with larger pasta shapes, while lighter sauces pair well with thinner pasta.
Think about texture: Some pasta shapes are better suited for certain textures. For example, gnocchi works well with creamy sauces, while spaghetti is perfect for light, oil-based sauces.
Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new combinations. Sometimes the best dishes come from unexpected pairings.

Where to Buy the Best Pasta

When it comes to buying pasta, quality matters. Here are a few places to find the best pasta:

Specialty Italian markets: These stores often carry high-quality, artisanal pasta that you won't find in regular grocery stores.
Online retailers: Websites like Amazon and specialty food sites offer a wide variety of pasta options, including hard-to-find shapes and flavors.
Your local grocery store: While not as fancy as specialty markets, your local grocery store will have plenty of options to choose from.

Health Benefits of Pasta

Contrary to popular belief, pasta can actually be part of a healthy diet. Here are a few health benefits of pasta:

Rich in carbohydrates: Pasta is a great source of energy, making it perfect for fueling your day.
Low in fat: Most pasta is low in fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their weight.
Versatile: You can pair pasta with a variety of healthy ingredients like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Pasta

Cooking perfect pasta is easier than you think. Here are a few tips to help you achieve pasta perfection:

Salt your water: This will add flavor to the pasta and enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Don't overcook: Overcooked pasta is mushy and unappetizing. Stick to the recommended cooking time on the package.
Reserve pasta water: This starchy water can be used to thicken sauces and add extra flavor to your dish.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! The top 7 types of pasta you need to try at least once. From classic spaghetti to playful farfalle, each pasta shape brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table. So next time you're in the mood for pasta, don't be afraid to try something new. You might just discover your new favorite dish.

Now it's your turn. Which pasta from this list are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your fellow pasta lovers. Because life’s too short for boring pasta nights!

Why Pasta Matters in Your Life
Top 7 Types of Pasta You Need to Try
Spaghetti
Penne
Fettuccine
Rigatoni
Farfalle
Linguine
Gnocchi
How to Choose the Right Pasta for Your Dish
Where to Buy the Best Pasta
Health Benefits of Pasta
Tips for Cooking Perfect Pasta
Conclusion

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