Glossary of Pasta Terms

A very tiny ball of pasta that is used mainly as soup pasta. If acini di pepe is unavailable, orzo may be substituted.

A pasta filled with various ingredients that is made as a circle or square of pasta dough that is folded over and sealed on the open edge to form a half circle or rectangular shape.

Refers to pasta that is shaped like tiny letters. They are most often used in soups and are very popular with children.

Small rings of pasta that are used in various soups and are also suitable for salads.

Tiny rings of pasta. Anellini is a smaller version of anelli pasta. It is used in various soups and is also suitable for salads.

Extremely thin, long strands of pasta, which are available in both strands and nests.

Stuffed pasta that is small and round in shape or shaped like a half circle with an edging that has an embossed or ruffled appearance.

Thin white, semi-transparent noodles that are made from arrowroot starch. They are similar to cellophane noodles in appearance.