De Cecco, F.lli De Cecco di Filippo Fara San Martino SpA
De Cecco Shells Pasta
What it is
These are small, curved pasta shapes with a hollow center and ridged exterior. The ridges are designed to hold sauces well. This pasta is made from durum wheat semolina and water, a traditional combination for quality pasta. The shape is often referred to as conchiglie in Italian, meaning shells. They are a versatile pasta shape suitable for many types of dishes.
How people cook with it
Shells pasta is a popular choice for both simple weeknight meals and more elaborate pasta dishes. Its unique shape makes it excellent for capturing and holding various sauces.
- Baked pasta dishes
- Pasta salads
- Creamy sauces
- Hearty meat sauces
To cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shells pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. Toss immediately with your favorite sauce, or use in a baked dish. The reserved pasta water can be added to sauces to help them emulsify and coat the pasta more smoothly.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to smooth pasta shapes, the ridged exterior of these shells provides more surface area for sauces to cling to. This makes them ideal for thicker, chunkier sauces that can get trapped within the shell's curve and adhere to the ridges, delivering more flavor in every bite.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a pasta shape that pairs well with a variety of sauces will enjoy this product.
How to keep the rest
After opening the package, store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors or moisture from the pantry. Ensure the container is sealed tightly.