02/24/2022
How many shapes of Italian pasta are there? More than 200, according to statistics, even though traditionalists are not very imaginative in the choice of shapes. Here's the top 5:
1. Spaghetti
2. Penne rigate
3. Fusilli
4. Rigatoni
5. Farfalle
The choice of pasta shapes should depend on the type of condiment to be matched, but in Italy this is not always the case: in general Italians prefer short and ribbed pasta to long pasta - spaghetti aside.
Generally speaking, the most structured shapes, such as rigatoni, penne and bucatini, are better matched to more seasoned sauces, whereas the smoother ones, such as farfalle, are more compatible with light sauces and condiments.
P.S. Pasta should be exclusively eaten "Italian style": al dente, with Mediterranean sauces and accompanied by a good glass of the best - obviously - Italian wines.
