Grocery
Sea Shells Pasta, Medium Size
What it is
This is a medium-sized pasta shape with a distinctive shell-like form. The concave interior of each shell is designed to capture and hold sauces, making it a popular choice for many dishes. The pasta is made from durum wheat semolina, a common ingredient for dried pasta that provides a firm texture when cooked.
How people cook with it
This pasta shape is versatile and works well with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Its unique form makes it a fun addition to everyday meals.
- With chunky vegetable sauces
- In baked pasta dishes
- With creamy cheese sauces
- As a side dish
To cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss immediately with your prepared sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the shells evenly.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to smoother pasta shapes like penne or rotini, the deep ridges and hollow interior of sea shells are excellent at trapping thicker, chunkier sauces. This allows more flavor to adhere to each piece of pasta, creating a more robust taste experience.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that holds sauce well will appreciate this option.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store the remaining pasta in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Ensure the container is sealed tightly.