Spaghetti is one of the most popular pasta shapes and is often served with tomato-based sauces, such as marinara or bolognese. It's also great with garlic and olive oil (aglio e olio) or topped with meatballs.
Fettuccine is a flat, wide pasta that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces. Fettuccine Alfredo, made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, is a classic choice. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra flavor.
Penne pasta features a tube-like shape with angled ends, making it perfect for holding chunky sauces. Try it with a spicy arrabbiata sauce, a hearty vodka sauce, or a pesto sauce mixed with roasted vegetables.
Farfalle pasta is shaped like little bowties and works well in both cold and warm pasta salads. Toss it with a fresh tomato and basil sauce for a light and summery dish.
Rigatoni is a large, ridged pasta that's excellent for trapping sauces. It pairs nicely with meaty ragù or a chunky vegetable sauce.
Linguine is similar to spaghetti but slightly wider. It's great with seafood dishes, such as linguine with clams, shrimp scampi, or a lemon and garlic butter sauce.
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that can be used in soups, salads, or as a side dish. Try it in a Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
Orecchiette means "little ears" in Italian, and the pasta has a unique round, concave shape. It's often served with broccoli rabe, sausage, and garlic for a delightful combination of flavors.